Umine Annex
8/10 Excellent - Based on 5 reviews
Umine Annex is a cluster of 23 independent villa-style accommodations perched on the highlands of Beppu’s Kannawa district, designed for self-contained stays that combine private thermal bathing with modern conveniences. Each villa is described with its own hot-spring supply and many units feature both indoor and open-air baths, a barrel sauna, a wood deck and a small private garden, enabling guests to enjoy Beppu’s onsen waters without using a shared public bath. The property also operates a seasonal rooftop/pool in summer and offers an on-site restaurant and a lounge area where complimentary beverages are provided as part of an all-inclusive-style service in the front building.
Room formats range from compact two-bed villas (around 42–50 m²) to larger 100 m² suite villas with two bedrooms and separate living areas; several room types are presented as Japanese–Western (washitsu + living) or purely western layouts. Villas are equipped for self-catering with a kitchenette or full kitchen, refrigerator and basic cookware, plus flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms with bidet fixtures, and in many cases a cold plunge/water bath beside the barrel sauna. These in-room thermal features, together with private outdoor decks and gardens, mark the property as a ryokan with private onsen in Beppu while retaining the privacy and flexibility of a villa stay.
Located above the city, the site provides elevated views over Beppu and quick access to Kannawa’s hot-spring attractions; on-site self-parking and complimentary Wi‑Fi are listed among practical amenities. Staffing follows a lodge-style rhythm with a staffed front desk during set hours rather than 24-hour reception, and daily housekeeping is provided to maintain the villas. For travellers prioritising private bathing, an in-room sauna option and villa-style living within Ōita prefecture, Umine Annex offers a clear, practical alternative to a traditional communal ryokan experience.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Umine Annex
Positive Reviews
Stunning panoramic views
Multiple guests praised the elevated location and described the high-ground scenery as overwhelming and exceptional, contributing strongly to the overall experience.
High-quality, delicious food
Reviewers noted that meals (including buffet) were very tasty and focused on quality rather than quantity; food was well prepared and satisfying.
Relaxing onsen, private baths and sauna
Guests enjoyed the hot springs, private open-air baths and sauna at the accommodation, and also access to the larger public bath—overall bathing facilities were described as very satisfying.
Friendly, attentive staff
Staff were described as kind and pleasant, which enhanced the stay and contributed to a luxurious, memorable atmosphere.
Private, comfortable rooms and group capacity
The property can accommodate larger groups and provides a private, cozy feel in the villas, making it suitable for group stays and guests seeking privacy.
Negative Reviews
Bath area poorly lit at night
One guest reported that the area around the bath was too dark at night and felt scary, indicating lighting and safety concerns in bathing areas after dark.
Seasonal pool closed in winter reduces value for small parties
A reviewer noted the seasonal pool had no water during winter and that a villa can feel too large for two people in winter, reducing the sense of value for small parties.
Insects due to mountain location
Because the property is located in the mountains, guests may encounter insects; this was mentioned as a minor but expected downside of the setting.
Difficult to reach on foot; transport required
Several guests pointed out that walking to the ryokan is difficult; a rental car or shuttle service from the station is recommended for convenient access.
Limited variety in meal selections
While food quality was praised, one guest observed that breakfast and dinner did not offer many different dishes, reflecting a focus on quality over a broad selection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Capacity depends on room type; most villas and family rooms sleep two to three adults, with specific maximum occupancy shown on each room option.
Yes, the property has on-site hot spring facilities and a sauna, and many rooms feature private open-air baths.
Some rooms include private open-air baths for exclusive use; booking a separate private public bath is not guaranteed and should be requested with the property in advance.
There is no regularly advertised airport shuttle; guests typically arrive by taxi, rental car, or public transport, and free on-site parking is available.
Oita Airport is about 36 km away (roughly a 40–50 minute drive) and Beppu Station around 6–7 km; the easiest options are taxi or car, though local buses serve the Kannawa area.
Staff can assist in English and Chinese to a limited extent, with Japanese available for fuller on-site support.
Expect a traditional onsen ryokan atmosphere with tatami areas and hot-spring bathing combined with Western-style villa rooms and family-friendly facilities.
Beppu’s famous Jigoku Meguri (hot‑spring “hells”), including Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) and other Kannawa onsen sights, are within a short walk or a few minutes’ drive.
Check-in generally starts at 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00; front-desk hours can be limited, so notify the property if you expect a late arrival.
Pets are not permitted at the property; there is no on-site supermarket, but convenience stores and small shops are nearby in Kannawa and larger supermarkets are located in central Beppu.