Kamenoi Hotel Aso Park Resort
7,3/10 Very good - Based on 717 reviews
Kamenoi Hotel Aso Park Resort sits on the slopes of Mount Aso with panoramic views of the five peaks and the surrounding outer rim. The property blends resort-scale amenities with regional touches: a large public onsen complex that includes open-air baths, two observation baths framing Aso's peaks and offering seasonal panoramas of the crater, a family bath and a sauna, plus year-round heated indoor and outdoor pools. Suites and rooms range from Western twins to Japanese-style layouts, and a themed Kumamon Room adds local character.
Dining centers on a spacious buffet restaurant, ASO BOLD KITCHEN, with an open live kitchen serving about 90 dishes focused on Aso produce and regional specialties, and menus that change with the seasons. For relaxation there are jacuzzi and lazy-river features within the thermal facilities, a children's pool and night-time pool hours, and a variety of bathing experiences suited to families and solo travellers; some room types include view baths. The hotel operates a shuttle to JR Aso Station and provides multilingual front-desk service, free Wi‑Fi and on-site parking.
The property functions as a practical base for exploring Aso Kuju National Park, nearby observatories and family attractions, with easy access to hiking and driving routes and about 45 minutes by car from Aso Kumamoto Airport. It is positioned as a ryokan with onsen in Aso and as a ryokan with onsen in Kumamoto, balancing resort facilities with traditional bathing culture. The layout and amenities make it suitable for family getaways and short stays where scenery and access to natural hot springs are priorities.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Kamenoi Hotel Aso Park Resort
Positive Reviews
Relaxing onsens with great views
Multiple reviewers praised the hotel's onsen facilities — indoor and outdoor baths with nice views (including views toward Mt Aso) and generally very pleasant spa experiences.
Excellent buffet breakfasts and dinners
Many guests highlighted the wide variety and good quality of the buffet meals for both dinner and breakfast; several called the food exceptional and a major asset of the stay.
Friendly, helpful staff
Staff were repeatedly described as very attentive and accommodating, with reviewers saying the team went out of their way to help and provide good service.
Spacious Japanese‑style rooms
Guests appreciated the large tatami/traditional rooms and overall roomy accommodation in many room types, finding them comfortable and a highlight of the stay.
Resort amenities and family‑friendly features
Visitors noted resort features such as pools, game rooms, yukatas provided, late‑night ramen, and activities that made the property well suited to families and weekend getaways.
Negative Reviews
Property feels dated and needs renovation
A number of reviews mention older buildings, worn or 1970s‑style décor, tired common areas and calls for urgent refurbishment or upgrades to facilities.
Inconsistent room comfort and maintenance
Complaints included soft/uncomfortable beds or mattresses, poor thermal insulation, rooms smelling or having stains, and occasional lack of hot water in a booked room.
Cleanliness and onsen upkeep concerns (occasional)
Some guests reported hygiene issues — e.g., one onsen not very clean and coffee stains or strange smells in corridors — indicating variable cleanliness in parts of the property.
Dining experience can be noisy or poorly organised
While food quality is often praised, a few reviewers described buffet service as chaotic, crowded and noisy (comparing it to a canteen), which reduced the dining experience for some.
Location/access limitations and shuttle frequency
Although close to Mt Aso, several guests noted the hotel is somewhat far from the train station; shuttle service exists but reviewers found its frequency limited and recommended checking transport options or taking a short taxi.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room types vary from doubles and tatami-style rooms to family rooms; some renovated South Wing twins can accommodate up to four guests. Check the specific room's occupancy when booking.
Yes — the hotel features natural hot springs including a large public bath, open-air baths, observation baths with views of the Aso peaks, a family bath, sauna and indoor heated pool. Guests can enjoy both communal and family bathing options.
Public hot springs are typically open in the early morning and again in the afternoon–evening; separate men’s and women’s areas are provided and tattoos may restrict access to some facilities. Follow usual onsen etiquette (wash before entering, no swimwear in public baths) and check the front desk for current hours.
The hotel offers a free shuttle service from JR Aso Station (approximately a 5-minute ride) with scheduled pick-up/drop-off times — confirm the timetable before arrival. By car, Aso/Kumamoto airport is about a 45–50 minute drive; taxis and local buses are also options.
Front desk staff provide service in Japanese and can offer English assistance; for other languages or special requests it’s best to notify the hotel in advance. The hotel website has English information about facilities.
Expect a modern resort with Japanese touches: renovated rooms, yukata provided, a large buffet restaurant focusing on local Aso ingredients, indoor pool, kids’ play areas and family-friendly facilities. The property mixes resort amenities with regional culinary and onsen experiences.
Nearby highlights include Mount Aso and the Aso Five Peaks, Kusasenri plain and observatory, Daikanbo viewpoint, Aso Shrine and the family-friendly Cuddly Dominion, all reachable within short drives. The hotel can advise on routes and timing for day trips.
Renting a car is the most flexible option (free on-site parking available), while trains to JR Aso Station plus the hotel shuttle, local buses and taxis serve key spots. The front desk can help arrange transport and provide timetables.
The hotel offers a family bath and some private/reservable bathing options; reservations or advance requests are handled through the front desk. Contact the hotel before arrival to confirm availability and book a time.
Pets are not permitted on the property. The hotel has an on-site buffet restaurant and a convenience kiosk, and there are local restaurants and small shops within walking distance; the front desk can recommend nearby stores and eateries.