Ryokan Yamanami
9,1/10 Exceptional - Based on 1062 reviews
Ryokan Yamanami is a traditional Japanese inn set on the wooded slopes above a small hot-spring town in Yufuin. Rooms combine tatami flooring and low-profile futon beds with practical modern touches such as air-conditioning, free Wi‑Fi and refrigerators; many rooms open onto terraces or windows that frame the surrounding mountains. The property presents itself as a ryokan with onsen in Yufuin, Ōita, offering a compact, quiet base for exploring local galleries, the lakeside park and the broader Kyushu countryside without sacrificing everyday comforts like on-site parking and communal lounges.
Bathing facilities are a central feature: guests can use a public hot-spring bath and open-air baths carved into the hillside, while several annex rooms include their own outdoor tubs for private soaking. The water is drawn from local springs and the layout emphasizes views and seclusion, making this a ryokan with private onsen in Yufuin for visitors who prefer an in-room or exclusive bathing experience. A small sauna, foot-bath areas and relaxation lounges complement the thermal facilities, supporting longer unwinding sessions after sightseeing.
Meals follow a seasonal, local-led approach, with multi-course dinners and morning fare that highlight regional produce and simple presentation; breakfast and dinner options are available on property. Staff service is frequently described as attentive and helpful, assisting with local recommendations and practicalities to reach nearby attractions. With a balance of traditional room design, accessible thermal facilities and straightforward amenities, the ryokan suits couples, families and small groups seeking a calm hot-spring retreat in the Yufuin area of Ōita Prefecture.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Ryokan Yamanami
Positive Reviews
Warm, attentive staff
Multiple reviews praise the friendly, welcoming and helpful staff who provide attentive service and accommodate dietary needs when notified.
Outstanding food and breakfast
Guests repeatedly highlight delicious, beautifully presented meals and kaiseki-style breakfasts with varied dishes; many call the food a trip highlight.
Private and relaxing onsen options
Onsen facilities — especially private outdoor onsens in annex rooms — are described as very relaxing and a major plus for the stay.
Beautiful mountain views and peaceful setting
Many guests mention magnificent views of Mount Yufu, a calm, countryside location and easy walk to the station and Yufuin town.
Clean, traditional, comfortable rooms and good amenities
Rooms are noted as spotless, traditionally styled with comfortable futons and tatami; amenities mentioned include yukata, toiletries, parking, massage chairs and other facilities.
Negative Reviews
Occasional loud background music late at night
At least one guest reported ambient music being too loud and continuing late into the night, disturbing sleep.
Shared or absent ensuite toilets in some rooms
Several reviews note that some main-building rooms have shared toilets or lack ensuite bathrooms, which some guests found inconvenient.
Limited staff availability late in the evening
One reviewer observed there was no staff presence after about 9pm, which can make arrival with heavy luggage or for elderly guests more difficult.
Problems with booked activities
A guest reported a reserved starlight tour did not show up despite prior reservation and email contact, resulting in a disappointing experience.
Unexpected extra charge for special dietary handling
One guest was charged extra for specially prepared dishes for a food allergy and said they were only informed after receiving the first breakfast, leaving no chance to decline the additional fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room types vary: main-building Japanese-style rooms typically sleep 3–4 guests on futons, and the large family room can sleep up to 6; confirm exact occupancy and children's ages when booking.
Yes — the property offers public hot spring baths, an open-air bath, and a sauna, and some annex rooms include private open-air baths.
Yes, guests with tattoos are allowed to use the shared bathing areas.
There is no regular airport shuttle listed; the ryokan is within walking distance of Yufuin Station (about 9 minutes), and airport transfers are usually made by train, bus or taxi.
Staff speak Japanese and can assist guests in English for common requests.
Expect traditional tatami rooms with futon bedding, mountain views, and modern comforts like air conditioning, refrigerator and free Wi‑Fi; meals focus on local Japanese-style breakfast and optional dinner.
Nearby highlights include Kinrin Lake, Yufuin’s main shopping street, the Norman Rockwell and Trick Art museums, and Mount Yufu for hiking.
The ryokan is roughly a 9‑minute walk (about 750 metres) from Yufuin Station; taxis and local buses are also readily available.
Check-in is from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM and check-out is from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM; please inform the property of your expected arrival time in advance.
Pets are not allowed; several annex rooms feature private open-air baths for exclusive use, while communal hot spring baths are shared.