Nanakamado
9,3/10 Exceptional - Based on 53 reviews
Nanakamado is a compact, family-run ryokan tucked into the Sujiyu Onsen area of Kokonoe, set against forested slopes and designed for a quietly restorative stay. The property operates on an intimate scale with a small number of guest rooms, many arranged in traditional Japanese style with tatami flooring and futon bedding; several rooms include their own hot-spring baths so guests can enjoy private soaking at any hour. This combination of modest size and in-room facilities positions Nanakamado as a ryokan with private onsen in Ōita for travelers seeking low-key, nature-focused accommodation.
Meals are a central part of the experience: dinner and breakfast are prepared in-house, typically presented as set courses that highlight seasonal ingredients from the region and local preparation styles. Public bathing options complement the private baths, and common facilities are straightforward and practical — a dining room for shared meals, a reception area staffed by local hosts, complimentary Wi‑Fi, on-site parking and in-room amenities such as air conditioning and a flat-screen TV with Blu-ray. The ryokan’s location makes it a convenient base for outdoor activities around Kuju and nearby hot-spring attractions, qualifying it as a ryokan with onsen in Oita Prefecture for visitors combining bathing with sightseeing.
Expect a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere rather than resort-scale services: the small number of rooms and the emphasis on home-style hospitality mean quieter evenings, attentive local hosts and the likelihood of communal dining rhythms. The setting suits couples, families and solo travelers who prioritise privacy, easy access to natural hot springs and simple comfort; because availability is limited, booking ahead is advisable for stays during popular seasons. Practical arrangements are kept minimal and focused on ensuring a restful, onsen-centered visit surrounded by mountain scenery.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Nanakamado
Positive Reviews
Friendly, attentive staff
Multiple reviewers highlight very kind, helpful staff who go out of their way to assist guests (for example arranging local help when guests were stuck) and who accommodate changes such as missed meals — creating a warm, welcoming experience despite language differences.
Delicious, generous meals
Breakfast and dinner receive repeated praise for being tasty, plentiful and varied. Several guests noted large portions and carefully prepared set meals that made the stay memorable.
Great onsen experience and in-room baths
Guests loved the hot springs — both the public baths and the private/semi-open-air baths in rooms. Reports include 24-hour access to flowing spring water and frequent use of the baths as a highlight of the stay.
Quiet, cozy and private ryokan atmosphere
The property is described as small and peaceful (one reviewer noted it has only a few rooms), with tatami-style rooms and a homely atmosphere that many found relaxing — suitable for couples and families seeking privacy.
Comfortable, clean rooms and good guest amenities
Reviewers noted clean, comfortable rooms with traditional tatami styling, private onsen in rooms, and useful amenities (Wi‑Fi, paid TV/YouTube). Staff communicate patiently with non-Japanese speakers, helping guests feel at ease.
Negative Reviews
Hot water/temperature issues
Several guests experienced problems with water temperature control — the wash basin or shower temperature was hard to adjust and in some cases onsen water or taps were not hot enough, requiring guests to stay close to the faucet to keep warm.
Cold bathrooms / drafts in winter
A few reviews mentioned that room bathrooms or areas around windows were cold in winter, making washing or using the in‑room bath uncomfortable unless extra measures were taken.
Location is secluded and can be hard to find
The ryokan is set off the main road and some guests found it difficult to locate, especially drivers; reviewers suggest clearer directions or more information for arriving by car.
Remote with limited nearby nightlife
Several guests noted the area is quiet and a bit remote, so there is little to do nearby in the evening — best reached and enjoyed by car when planning the visit.
Insects in outdoor baths at night
One guest reported a noticeable number of insects in the outdoor onsen during the evening, which affected the night‑time bathing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Standard Japanese-style rooms sleep two on futons, while the Japanese-style room with a semi-open-air bathtub can sleep up to four; no extra beds or cots are available.
Yes, the property offers hot spring bathing facilities; guest reviews and the property listing indicate onsen access is available around the clock.
Some room types include a semi-open-air private bathtub, while the ryokan also has a public onsen; full private-hire of the public bath is not listed, so contact the property to request arrangements.
No regular shuttle is shown on the listing; guests are asked to notify their arrival time and should contact the ryokan directly if they need pickup or transfer assistance.
The nearest major airport referenced is Kumamoto (about 60–65 km); reaching the ryokan typically requires a combination of train and local bus or taxi from regional stations.
Staff are described as friendly and helpful and some English is spoken, though Japanese is the primary language; many international guests report successful communication.
The ryokan serves set Japanese-style dinner and breakfast on site; there are few restaurants in the immediate area, so dining at the property is recommended.
Komatsu Jigoku is about 900 meters away, with Yufuin and Kinrinko Lake roughly 38 km and Mount Aso about 40 km, making the area suitable for hot-spring visits and day trips.
Check-in is between 15:00 and 17:30 and check-out is by 10:00; the property requests guests notify their expected arrival time in advance.
Pets are not permitted, the ryokan is small and not set up for large private events without prior discussion, and there are limited shops or restaurants within walking distance — plan to shop in a nearby town or ask the host for local options.