Nogami Honkan
8,4/10 Excellent - Based on 1480 reviews
Nogami Honkan is a mid-sized traditional ryokan in central Beppu that maintains a largely Japanese atmosphere across its 31 guest rooms. Accommodation options include tatami-style rooms and rooms fitted with Western beds; many rooms provide yukata robes and flat-screen televisions, while a portion have private bathrooms and others use shared washrooms. Public areas are straightforward and functional: a compact dining room, a lounge with free internet terminals and reading material, and laundry facilities. Three rooms are designated pet-friendly, making the property suitable for small groups and families seeking practical, traditional lodging.
The property operates its own hot spring source and offers both gender-separated large baths and three bookable family baths for private use; these smaller baths can be reserved for a quieter, exclusive soak. Baths are supplied directly from the on-site spring, and the ryokan manages bathing times so communal facilities and private rentals are coordinated. With this mix of communal bathing and reservable suites of baths, the property functions as a ryokan with private onsen in Kyushu for guests who want the option of solitary bathing alongside standard public onsen access.
Situated within easy walking distance of Beppu’s main attractions — including the traditional sand-bath and the aquarium and tower precincts — Nogami Honkan is about a ten-minute walk from the city station and is well served by local buses. The inn serves a morning Japanese set meal that highlights local rice, with Western alternatives available on request, and offers on-site parking for a daily fee. For travelers prioritizing convenient access to Beppu’s hot-spring district and straightforward, customary service, this ryokan with private onsen in Ōita presents a practical base.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Nogami Honkan
Positive Reviews
Excellent onsen options
Multiple reviewers praised the hot spring facilities — both public and private baths — noting they are enjoyable, well-maintained and that private onsen can be booked/used for a small extra fee.
Friendly, helpful staff
Staff are frequently described as polite, efficient and attentive, providing good explanations at check‑in and a welcoming service throughout guests' stays.
Very convenient central location
Many guests appreciated the ryokan's central position — walking distance to Beppu station, close to the waterfront, shops, restaurants and local onsen attractions, making it ideal for short stays and sightseeing.
Tasty, varied Japanese breakfasts
Breakfasts received consistent praise for being plentiful, varied and good value, with several guests noting daily variation and a pleasant breakfast room.
Authentic, spacious tatami rooms and good value
Guests liked the traditional Japanese rooms (tatami, sliding doors) — some large rooms even felt apartment‑like and included private baths — and many felt the overall price/quality ratio was excellent.
Negative Reviews
Aged building and facilities
Numerous comments mention the property feels dated (stairwells, corridors, some baths) and would benefit from refurbishment or fresh paint to improve appearance and comfort.
Cleanliness and maintenance issues in bath areas
A few guests reported problems in onsen changing rooms (mould) and suggested better maintenance; others noted that some private baths are basic or spartan.
Noise and poor soundproofing
Several reviewers noted thin walls/doors and audible noise — including guests slamming sliding doors, corridor noise, and nearby hostel/bar patrons — which can disturb light sleepers.
Facility noise and minor inconveniences
Isolated complaints included noisy fans, a loud elevator, a somewhat noisy air‑conditioning unit, and slow arrival of hot water to showers in some rooms.
Comfort and practical room shortcomings
A few guests mentioned thin futons/mattresses, lack of a desk/workspace, limited lighting or power outlets in corridors/rooms, and occasional mosquito problems in summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms range from single to family-style; many Japanese-style rooms sleep two adults (some allow one child) and larger family rooms with futons accommodate groups—check the room type before booking.
Yes, the ryokan offers natural hot spring baths including large public onsen on site.
Yes, the property has several reservable family/private baths; guests can book time slots at reception, sometimes for a small additional fee.
According to the property’s main booking information pets are generally not accepted; if you require a pet-friendly room, contact the ryokan directly to confirm availability.
Take an airport or highway bus to Beppu (about 50 minutes to the central bus stops) then walk a few minutes to the ryokan, or take the JR train to Beppu Station and walk roughly 8–10 minutes.
There is no regular hotel shuttle listed; the ryokan is a short walk from Beppu bus stops and within easy walking distance of JR Beppu Station.
Standard times are check-in from 16:00 to 21:00 and check-out by 11:00 (some plans may allow earlier check-out from 06:00); confirm your reservation for any variations.
The ryokan serves a Japanese set breakfast featuring local rice, and Western-style options are available on request; the on-site Morning Lounge serves breakfast.
Nogami Honkan sits in central Beppu with convenience stores and restaurants nearby; Takegawara Onsen, Beppu Tower, the Hells of Beppu and Umitamago Aquarium are all a short walk or short drive away.
Staff are known to be helpful and will assist with directions and local recommendations, though English ability can be limited; they can still help arrange transport and sightseeing suggestions.