Hitoyoshi Onsen Nabeya
8,6/10 Excellent - Based on 23 reviews
Set on the banks of the Kuma River, Hitoyoshi Onsen Nabeya blends nearly two centuries of local history with a modernized wing rebuilt after the 2020 floods. The property maintains a traditional entrance and noren while offering 37 non-smoking rooms that range from classic Japanese layouts to larger suites with river views. Public areas include a light-filled lobby, a riverside café and a dedicated bar showcasing regional shochu, and a concierge desk that arranges local experiences such as brewery visits, cycling routes and temple walks.
Bathing facilities draw on the alkaline, bicarbonate-rich springs of the Hitoyoshi basin and include a large public bath and top-floor open-air baths that look over the river and castle ruins; bathing hours are scheduled in morning and evening shifts. Several suites (named Ume, Sakura and Tsubaki) feature private open-air onsen tubs or in-room hot spring baths for exclusive use, and the hotel also offers bookable family baths and a sauna. For travelers searching the region, this ryokan with onsen Kumamoto provides both communal onsen culture and options for private soaking.
Dining centers on an on-site restaurant that stages inventive multi-course meals rooted in local produce, with a buffet-style breakfast and private dining rooms for small groups; wine and a broad selection of local shochu are available at the bar. Practical amenities include free parking, Wi‑Fi, a souvenir shop, coin laundry and limited room service, supporting stays for couples, families and small groups. Those seeking a riverside retreat that combines curated experiences with the option of an in-room thermal soak will find a well-equipped ryokan with private onsen Hitoyoshi.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Hitoyoshi Onsen Nabeya
Positive Reviews
Excellent onsen facilities
Multiple guests praised the hot spring baths — including a private, above‑ground bath with river views — describing them as modern, large, comfortable and very relaxing.
Fantastic riverside location and views
Reviewers highlighted the superb location on the Kuma river, river and castle‑ruin views, pleasant riverside ambiance and easy access to nearby sights and restaurants.
Helpful, warm staff
Several guests commented that the staff were very helpful and provided warm, attentive service, contributing to an overall excellent stay.
Delicious food and varied breakfast
Meals and breakfast were frequently described as very tasty with a wide variety; food quality was a standout for many visitors.
Clean, comfortable and recently renovated rooms
Many guests appreciated the recently renovated appearance, spaciousness, comfortable beds and clean facilities in rooms and suites.
Negative Reviews
Toilet accessibility concern
One guest noted the toilet area is low and has a step; they suggested installing handrails to improve safety and accessibility.
Some rooms feel older
At least one reviewer mentioned noticing signs of age in the guest room, suggesting that not all rooms appear newly renovated.
Limited view from some baths
A guest said the open‑air bath design prevented seeing outside even though external visibility should be possible, reducing the expected scenic experience.
Billing/payment mistake at checkout
One group reported being charged roughly double at payment and had to show booking confirmation to have the amount corrected.
Lack of visible public restroom near lobby
A guest could not find a restroom near the lobby and had to return to their room; better signage or a nearby public toilet could help.
Frequently Asked Questions
The ryokan has 37 rooms and suites; room types include twin, triple and quadruple layouts, and many suites or family rooms sleep up to four guests (some suites list 4+ capacity with futons).
The property offers natural hot-spring baths including indoor public baths, open-air baths, a sauna and a family private bath; general bathing hours run about 15:00–24:00 and 06:00–09:00.
Several suites feature private open-air or inner hot-spring baths and a family private bath is available; private-use availability can be restricted seasonally (please contact the ryokan to reserve).
There is no regular public airport shuttle; the ryokan is roughly 50 minutes by car from Kagoshima Airport, about 80 minutes from Kumamoto Airport and around 120 minutes from Fukuoka, and staff can advise or help arrange transfers using local buses or taxis.
The on-site team primarily operates in Japanese, with English information available and English-speaking staff or concierge support typically available to assist foreign guests.
The ryokan’s restaurant serves kaiseki-style meals using local ingredients and regional specialties; dinner is served in the evening (guests select a time at check-in) and breakfast is offered as a restaurant buffet.
The ryokan sits in Hitoyoshi Onsen’s central area within easy walking distance of restaurants and local shops; there is also an on-site souvenir shop, vending machines and complimentary bicycle use to reach nearby stores.
Highlights include views of the Kuma River and Hitoyoshi Castle, local shochu distilleries, Aoi Aso Shrine, cycling routes and seasonal tourist trains such as the SL Hitoyoshi (operates in the spring–autumn period).
Check-in begins at 15:00 (official last check-in is commonly around 18:00 though some bookings show later times—confirm with your reservation), check-out is by 10:00, the entrance is closed roughly 01:00–07:00 and quiet hours are enforced overnight (about 21:00–08:00).
Pets are not permitted; children are welcome but the property cannot provide extra beds or cribs, so please inform the ryokan of children’s ages and any meal requirements in advance.