Sanso Tanaka
9,4/10 Exceptional - Based on 133 reviews
Sanso Tanaka is a small, adult-only ryokan set on the quieter side of Yufuin, in Yufu, Ōita. Housed in a pure wooden structure with just six guest rooms, the property emphasizes simplicity, seasonal views and a calm garden that frames Mount Yufu. Rooms blend a tatami area with Western-style beds and are kept intentionally modest to preserve traditional proportions and natural materials. The atmosphere and restrained service make it a focused short-stay option for travelers seeking a local, intimate experience at a ryokan with private onsen in Yufuin.
The hot springs are the defining feature: a sodium-bicarbonate-chloride source described locally as "bijin no yu" and delivered as a free-flowing spring to the baths. Guests may reserve one open-air bath and two indoor rock-style baths on a private (kashikiri) basis, allowing solitary or family use without sharing. One indoor bath is positioned to give a framed view of the mountain while bathing, and the outdoor bath opens to sky and trees. The combination of private reservation, continuous spring flow and mineral-rich water suits visitors who prioritize solitude and thermal therapy over communal bathing.
Services are straightforward and attentive: a morning meal is provided, yukata are available for guests, and the proprietors maintain a hands-on approach to housekeeping and hospitality. The ryokan accommodates adults only and provides on-site parking; its scale and wooden construction favor quiet evenings and clear seasonal vistas rather than extensive facilities. Located within easy walking distance of Yufuin’s main walking street and local museums, the property functions as a compact, specialist ryokan with private onsen in Ōita, ideal for short stays focused on relaxation and scenery.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Sanso Tanaka
Positive Reviews
Friendly, attentive hosts
Multiple guests praised the owners/staff as kind, helpful and accommodating — adjusting breakfast for allergies, allowing early check‑in, helping with bikes, providing English resources and assisting with luggage or car care.
Authentic, well‑kept traditional ryokan
Reviewers highlighted the ryokan's traditional wooden architecture and tasteful Japanese styling, describing it as quaint, cozy and even better than photos, with preserved original woodwork and a peaceful atmosphere.
Excellent private onsen experience
Guests repeatedly mentioned three private natural hot spring baths (two indoor, one outdoor). The onsens were described as relaxing, high quality, often available without waiting, and a major reason for enjoyment.
Great room comfort and views
Rooms were described as clean, spacious and comfortable with tatami areas; many guests enjoyed superb views of Mt. Yufu and surrounding farmland from their rooms.
Tasty breakfast and convenient extras
Breakfast bento boxes were frequently praised as delicious and filling, with daily variation and special requests accommodated. Complimentary amenities like laundry and free bicycle use (during check‑in) were appreciated.
Negative Reviews
Language barrier
Several guests noted limited English from staff which made communication slightly difficult; many relied on Google Translate, though staff made efforts to understand.
Location and access limits
While peaceful, the ryokan sits a short walk outside the busiest area; some found it a little distant from many restaurants or attractions, signage to the property limited, and access to buses/station a modest walk.
Noise and comfort issues
A few guests reported sleep disturbances — corridor noise due to building structure and, in one case, an air‑conditioning unit that restarted automatically and disrupted sleep.
Wi‑Fi and amenity gaps
At least one guest could not get Wi‑Fi in their room. Others suggested small amenity improvements in common areas (more plates/bowls in the tea/coffee area, snacks in the pantry) to better serve guests.
Limited facilities for some guests
Some reviews mentioned the absence of an elevator (stairs only) and that local restaurants can close early, which may be inconvenient for guests arriving late or with mobility needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rooms are for adults and typically accommodate up to two guests; extra beds and child stays are not available and the property is adults-only (guests must be 16 or older).
The ryokan offers private (kashikiri) baths including an open-air and indoor baths; publicly listed hot-spring hours are roughly 15:00–23:00 and 06:00–09:30.
The property does not provide shuttle or pick-up services; the nearest rail access is Yufuin Station, about a 10–15 minute walk, and taxis are available from the station or airport.
Staff communication is primarily in Japanese; some English may be spoken but English support is limited, so simple Japanese phrases or prior requests are recommended.
Expect a small, traditional wooden ryokan with tatami areas, an authentic Japanese stay focused on a quiet, homely atmosphere and views of Mount Yufu.
Kinrinko Lake, Yufuin’s main shopping street, the Norman Rockwell Museum and local shrines are within easy walking distance from the ryokan.
Most visitors walk to nearby sights; Yufuin Station connects by train and local buses, and taxis are available for longer trips such as Beppu or Oita.
Check-in is generally from 15:00 to 20:00 and check-out from 07:00 to 10:00; the property enforces a night curfew and does not permit entry or exit after about 23:00.
Private baths are provided for guest use (kashikiri); pets are not accepted at the property.
The ryokan does not offer full dinner service though breakfast options are noted and a shared kitchen is available; restaurants, cafes and convenience stores on Yufuin’s main street are within walking distance.