Yufudake Ichibo no Yado Kirara
8,9/10 Excellent - Based on 891 reviews
Set on a gentle hill overlooking Mount Yufu, Yufudake Ichibo no Yado Kirara blends modern comfort with traditional touches. Rooms face the mountain and terraces capture seasonal light; the property sits a short drive from central Yufuin yet offers a quieter, raised position. Public areas include a compact lounge and an on-site restaurant serving multi-course meals built around local Ōita ingredients. This calm setting and mountain outlook make it a good choice for travelers seeking a ryokan with private onsen in Yufuin.
Accommodation mixes tatami areas with Western bedding and each room includes a semi-open, 100% natural flowing bath supplied from the source; many rooms therefore provide direct private soaking with mountain views. Categories range from compact doubles to larger tatami suites with separate seating; all are air-conditioned and stocked with a refrigerator, kettle and safe. The in-room bathing lets couples or groups plan private onsen time without relying on public baths, reinforcing its character as a ryokan with private onsen in Ōita.
The on-site restaurant focuses on seasonal produce from the region and breakfasts follow a Japanese set style; dinner can be arranged as a kaiseki-style menu in many cases. Practical amenities include complimentary parking and Wi‑Fi, and staff provide multilingual support for basic needs. From here it’s straightforward to visit Yufuin’s museums, craft shops and Lake Kinrinko, while the ryokan’s elevated position offers unobstructed views at dawn. The overall experience emphasizes relaxed bathing, simple elegant rooms and locally minded cuisine.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Yufudake Ichibo no Yado Kirara
Positive Reviews
Warm, attentive staff and service
Many reviewers highlight exceptionally friendly, helpful and professional staff who enhance the stay with attentive service and personalized hospitality.
Private in‑room onsen and great hot‑spring experience
Guests frequently praise the private onsen baths (some with balcony/open‑air), which could be used at leisure and offered relaxing views of Mount Yufu.
Excellent, memorable Japanese cuisine
Several stays mention outstanding multi‑course Japanese meals and delicious breakfasts, describing the dining as a cultural experience and recommending the half‑board option.
Clean, comfortable rooms with scenic views
Multiple reviews report well‑maintained, clean rooms with comfortable beds and attractive views of Yufudake or the surrounding area.
Authentic, relaxing atmosphere
The ryokan’s traditional touches and serene atmosphere are repeatedly noted — guests found the experience relaxing, authentic and highly recommended for a restful stay.
Negative Reviews
Location and access can be inconvenient
The property sits above town — reviewers note an uphill walk from the station and limited nearby amenities; driving is easiest and some guests would have preferred clearer pickup/transfer arrangements.
Rooms can feel small or tight
Several guests found certain room types cramped (especially the entrance area) with limited space for luggage and movement.
Maintenance and room issues reported by some
A minority of reviews mention dated rooms or discrepancies with photos, occasional tatami stains, humidity or odor linked to the onsen, and even small insect presence in a bathroom.
Food may not suit all Western palates / some inconsistency
While many praised the cuisine, a few guests found the traditional dishes not to their taste or noted slight inconsistencies in flavor between meals.
Breakfast timing and transport constraints for active guests
One or two reviewers noted breakfast is served later than ideal for hikers, and the remote location limits spontaneous walking around town without using the shuttle or arranging transport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most rooms are sized for 2 adults, with some room types accommodating up to 3 guests; configurations vary by room. Children aged 13 and older are accepted and the property does not provide cots or rollaway beds.
Yes — the property offers communal hot-spring facilities including an outdoor onsen, and many room types include a private semi open-air bath. If you need a fully private reservable bath, contact the ryokan in advance to confirm availability.
There is no regular public airport shuttle advertised; station pickup is not guaranteed. Guests should arrange taxis or public transport, or contact the ryokan ahead of arrival to ask about any possible pickup options.
Oita Airport is the nearest major airport (approximately 50–60 km away). The easiest routes are by rental car or taxi; alternatively take public transport to Yufuin Station and then a short taxi or walk to the ryokan.
Japanese is the primary language, and staff provide warm, attentive service with basic English assistance commonly available; advance requests help if you need extra language support. Expect a traditional ryokan experience with tatami areas, local seasonal cuisine, and onsen bathing with views of Mount Yufu.
Kinrinko (Lake Kinrinko), Unaki Hime Shrine, the Yufuin Stained Glass Museum and the shops and cafes of Yufuin town are all nearby and popular with guests. Many of these are a short drive or a 10–20 minute trip from the property.
Yufuin town center and Yufuin Station are within a short drive or a roughly 10–20 minute walk depending on exact route. Taxis are readily used for quicker transfers, especially with luggage.
Standard check-in is in the afternoon (around 15:00) with check-out in the morning (around 10:00); specific published windows may apply so please confirm at booking. The ryokan asks guests to notify them of estimated arrival time in advance.
Pets are not permitted at the property. Some rooms have private in-room baths, but the communal onsen is shared; ask the ryokan about private-reservation options. Convenience stores and local shops in Yufuin are a short walk or drive from the ryokan for basic supplies.
The ryokan has an on-site restaurant serving breakfast and dinner with Asian and local seasonal dishes. Special dietary requests may be accommodated with advance notice — contact the ryokan before arrival to discuss needs.