Kusayane no yado Ryunohige
9,5/10 Exceptional - Based on 9 reviews
Kusayane no yado Ryunohige sits tucked into the wooded slopes above Yufuin, presented as a small collection of detached cottage-style units designed for privacy and quiet. The property comprises just ten individually configured guest cottages and villas, each arranged to take advantage of seasonal views toward the surrounding forest and nearby peaks. Public spaces are restrained and gardened, giving a sense of a forest retreat; the limited scale and layout underline its appeal as a ryokan with private onsen in Yufuin, Ōita, where discretion and a relaxed pace are central to the experience.
The accommodation emphasises in-room bathing: every cottage is fitted with its own semi-open-air bath supplied by the property’s two self-sourced springs. These two springs are described on-site as differing in character—one mildly acidic and one weakly alkaline—and the waters are used fresh and continuously in guest baths, creating a private onsen experience directly from source. Baths are configured as half-outdoor tubs that permit a view of the trees while retaining personal seclusion, so guests can enjoy hot-spring immersion without leaving their accommodation. This ryokan with private onsen in Ōita therefore focuses on room-level thermal privacy rather than large communal bathing complexes.
Meals are prepared around seasonal local produce with an emphasis on regional beef and mountain vegetables, typically served in private dining rooms or in-room settings that complement the intimate scale of the property. Practical amenities include complimentary internet and onsite parking, and a small shuttle service from the local station is offered by arrangement; advance notice is recommended given the limited reception hours. The small size, in-room bathing, and attention to seasonal cuisine make the property well suited to couples and travellers seeking a discreet, restorative stay in the Yufuin onsen area.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Kusayane no yado Ryunohige
Positive Reviews
Private in-room or private hot-spring baths
Several guests praised having private onsen (private baths) in their rooms or private hot springs, highlighting the excellent experience of soaking while enjoying the views.
Outstanding kaiseki dinner and breakfast / excellent food
Multiple reviews specifically complimented the meals—kaiseki dinner and breakfast—saying the food was exceptionally tasty and prepared with care by the chef.
Friendly, attentive and English-capable staff
Guests reported very helpful, polite staff with warm service; some noted staff could speak fluent English and provided attentive, near-personalized service.
Clean, comfortable and spacious rooms
Rooms were described as clean, comfortable and large—some suites and villas noted as roomy and relaxing for families or couples.
Quiet, private setting with superb mountain views and sunrises
Reviewers appreciated the peaceful atmosphere and privacy, reporting good sleep and unforgettable moments such as watching the sunrise over the mountains from the hot springs.
Negative Reviews
Narrow, steep access road
At least one guest mentioned the road to the property is narrow and steep, making driving and access difficult; this was cited as the only downside in that review.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most rooms are designed for two adults; a few suites or villas can sleep up to four guests. The property operates as an adult-only ryokan.
The property uses natural hot spring water and offers outdoor onsen facilities; many room types include private in‑room or open‑air baths. If you need an exclusively private rental, confirm availability when booking.
A complimentary shuttle from JR Yufuin Station is offered by reservation (limited hours in the afternoon). The nearest major airport is Ōita Airport, roughly 50–60 km away; regional trains or buses are common onward options.
Japanese is the primary language; staff typically provide basic English assistance but level of English support can vary. Contact the ryokan in advance if you need specific language help.
Check-in is from 15:00 to 18:00 and check-out is until 11:00. If you expect to arrive outside these hours, notify the property in advance.
Many room categories include private in‑room or open‑air baths, allowing a private soak. For additional private-bath bookings or special requests, please ask the ryokan when reserving.
Pets are not permitted at this ryokan. Service-animal policies should be confirmed with the property in advance.
Yufuin town center, with convenience stores and shops for basic supplies, is a short drive from the ryokan. It’s practical to stop in town en route for any groceries or essentials.
Breakfast is provided (typically an Asian or à‑la‑carte style) and many guests book plans that include traditional multi-course dinners prepared with local ingredients. Room service and dining arrangements depend on the selected plan and should be confirmed ahead of arrival.
The ryokan is set near Yufuin attractions such as Kinrin Lake, local museums, and Aso Kuju National Park within short driving distance. The easiest public access is via JR Yufuin Station (shuttle by reservation) or by road from nearby airports and regional bus services.