Kannawaen
9,2/10 Exceptional - Based on 504 reviews
Kannawaen is a traditional ryokan set in the steam-filled Kannawa district of Beppu, Ōita, within easy walking distance of the area’s famed “Hells” attractions. The property combines a compact garden and terrace with a reception and concierge service that operates around the clock, and it maintains a non-smoking policy throughout its public areas. Designed for travelers who want a measured blend of classic Japanese atmosphere and modern conveniences, the ryokan with onsen in Beppu places hot-spring bathing and local onsen culture at the heart of the stay while keeping common facilities accessible to guests with mobility needs.
Accommodation is arranged between a main building and separate hanare (detached) guest houses, with a mix of tatami areas and Western-style fittings; many room types include their own bathing facilities, and several offer open-air baths attached to the unit. The property provides reservable private bathing options—a family or private bath can be booked for individual use—so guests seeking seclusion can expect an intimate thermal experience. Practical touches such as free Wi‑Fi in public areas, in-room kettles and flat-screen TVs are combined with thoughtful service routines for dinner reservations and dietary requests.
On-site dining emphasizes seasonal and regional ingredients across two on-site restaurant settings and a morning continental offering; local steam-cooking traditions are readily available nearby for day visits. Additional amenities include a spa and massage services, complimentary on-site parking and staff assistance for sightseeing plans around Kannawa Onsen and wider Ōita. For visitors wanting private bathing without forgoing easy access to Beppu’s thermal attractions, this ryokan with private onsen in Ōita presents a manageable, well-located option that foregrounds thermal bathing and simple, traditional hospitality.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Kannawaen
Positive Reviews
Attentive, personalised service
Multiple reviewers highlighted exceptionally friendly, helpful staff who provided personalised attention (welcome gifts, anniversary surprises, daily fresh yukata, prompt assistance and tailored food precautions).
Outstanding food and dining experiences
Kaiseki, teppanyaki dinners and Japanese breakfasts were repeatedly praised for quality, variety and presentation; several guests called the meals among the best of their trip.
Excellent onsen facilities, including private baths
Guests loved the on-site hot springs—private in-room onsens, large public baths, rooftop pool and outdoor baths were described as relaxing, luxurious and a major reason to stay.
Prime location near Beppu Jigoku (the Hells)
The ryokan is right beside the Beppu Hells and within easy walking distance of major attractions, making it a convenient base for sightseeing.
Spacious, clean and high‑quality accommodations
Rooms and suites were described as spacious, spotless and attractive, with high standards of comfort and good value for the quality provided.
Negative Reviews
Limited nearby dining and distance to shops
Several guests noted few restaurants immediately nearby and a fair walk to convenience stores, so planning meals or bringing snacks is advised if not dining at the hotel.
Bar/service hours and limited drink options at times
Reviewers reported the bar opens late (around dinner time), an odd service concept requiring staff to be summoned after dinner, and limited drink choices at breakfast (only black tea in one report).
Facility maintenance and comfort issues
Some guests experienced problems such as noisy or hard‑to‑adjust air conditioning, a stubborn hot‑bath door handle, stains on flooring, and intermittent construction noise.
Layout and distance to some facilities
A few reviewers found the main lobby/front desk set back from the entrance and the public onsen located some distance from the main building, which could be inconvenient for some guests.
Occasional privacy and etiquette concerns
Isolated incidents were reported—e.g., a guest complained about someone using a phone in the onsen—and one guest found a spider in the room; staff generally responded but these episodes affected some visitors' comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room sizes vary by type; options range from double/twin rooms up to family/suite layouts that can accommodate as many as eight guests in larger units.
Yes — the property offers public hot-spring baths and open-air baths, and several room types include private in-room or open-air baths for exclusive use.
Guests with visible tattoos may be restricted from the public bathing areas; if you have tattoos, choose a room with a private bath or contact the property in advance to discuss options.
Oita Airport is about 31 km away; most guests travel by taxi or public transport to Beppu and then use local transfer options. From JR Beppu Station a taxi is roughly 20–30 minutes; a complimentary hotel shuttle from Beppu Station is also available by reservation.
The hotel offers a free shared shuttle from Beppu Station (meeting point: East exit in front of FamilyMart) on set departure times by reservation; the Kannawaguchi bus stop is about a five-minute walk from the property and on-site parking is free.
Staff provide service in Japanese and can assist in English, with some support available in Chinese; language coverage may vary by shift, so notify the hotel of any special needs.
The ryokan provides a traditional stay with tatami areas, yukata for guests, a Noh stage on the property, and two on-site restaurants (including a Japanese and a teppanyaki option); guests without a meal plan must reserve dinner at least one day before arrival, and arrivals after 18:00 may not be served dinner.
There is no major supermarket immediately adjacent; a few local shops serve the Kannawa area, while full convenience stores are easiest to reach near Beppu Station — plan to buy essentials before arrival if needed.
Kannawaen sits very close to the Hells of Beppu (Jigoku) — about 100 metres — and is within easy reach of the Kannawa steam-bath area, Hyotan Onsen, the Yukemori Observatory and several local museums and onsen experiences.
Pets are not allowed on the property; some room types include private in-room or open-air baths for exclusive use, and any additional private-use arrangements for public facilities should be requested directly with the hotel in advance.