Yufuin Iyotomi
8,1/10 Excellent - Based on 363 reviews
Yufuin Iyotomi is a traditionally styled ryokan set in the Yufuin basin, run across a main building and two annexes with a total of 22 guest rooms. Accommodation ranges from compact tatami rooms to larger Japanese‑style suites, and several room types include private washrooms or semi‑open‑air baths. Interiors use a restrained palette inspired by traditional Japanese colours and modest furnishings to create a calm, low‑key atmosphere; public spaces remain intimate rather than theatrical, reflecting a family‑run character and a focus on simple comfort.
The property centres on its hot‑spring bathing options: multiple onsen rooms and an outdoor bath are provided, and many of the bathing rooms can be used exclusively by guests when available, while a number of guestrooms feature their own semi‑open‑air baths. This practical system gives visitors a solitary hot‑spring experience without requiring a large private suite, making it a compact ryokan with private onsen in Yufuin for travellers prioritising privacy. The bathing areas emphasise natural hot water and a straightforward, restorative setting rather than elaborate spa programming.
Dining highlights local, seasonal produce in kaiseki‑style and course menus that can include regional items such as Bungo beef, local chicken and black pork, with meals typically served in the ryokan’s dining spaces. Useful amenities on site include complimentary Wi‑Fi, bicycle rental and on‑site parking (capacity for visitors), and the inn generally does not operate regular station transfers, so taxis are commonly used for arrival. For those seeking a quietly focused, traditional stay built around bathing and regional cuisine, Iyotomi represents a practical ryokan with private onsen in Ōita.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Yufuin Iyotomi
Positive Reviews
Private onsen system and pleasant outdoor bath
Multiple private onsen baths are available and many guests appreciated the outdoor onsen. Reviewers liked the ability to check which baths are free (QR/online) and enjoyed the privacy and relaxation these baths provide.
High-quality dinner and breakfast
Several guests praised the meals—especially the multi-course dinner and generous breakfast portions—recommending booking the hotel dinner since local restaurants close early.
Friendly, helpful staff and good service
Staff were frequently described as welcoming, accommodating and professional (helping with luggage, late dinner arrangements, taxi calls). Some guests noted staff spoke reasonable English and went out of their way to assist.
Clean, cozy ryokan atmosphere
Many reviewers found the property cozy and well set up as a traditional ryokan (yukata provided, private-feeling rooms), and generally clean, which made stays comfortable and homely.
Free parking and quiet location
Guests appreciated free parking nearby and a peaceful neighbourhood away from the station; location was convenient for visits to local sights and some found it within walking distance of the train station.
Negative Reviews
Small rooms and uncomfortable beds
Numerous reviews mention very small or dark single rooms and cramped standard rooms; several guests said mattresses/beds were uncomfortable (described like a hammock or temporary bed), making value-for-money questionable.
No en-suite bathrooms and shared bathing logistics
Many guests were surprised that there was no private in-room shower or sink as expected — showers and wash facilities are integrated with the onsen pools. This forced guests to cross outdoor garden areas at night/early morning, deal with small sinks in toilet areas, and in some cases return wet to their rooms due to no towels being provided.
Maintenance and cleanliness issues in places
Some reviewers reported mold on curtains, worn or aging room fittings, and occasional unpleasant toilet odours, indicating areas in need of maintenance or deeper cleaning.
Bath availability and size limitations
While private onsen are a pro, a few guests found the larger outdoor bath typically unavailable and some indoor baths smaller than expected. This led to waiting or disappointment when specific baths could not be used.
Signage, accessibility and noise concerns
Several guests noted the property entrance and parking signage are easy to miss, and the walk from the station can be up to about 1 km. A few rooms near staircases were noisy and some corridors are dimly lit at night.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some Japanese-style rooms can accommodate up to three guests using futon bedding; cots and extra beds are not available and children are welcome—please indicate ages when you book.
The property operates multiple on-site baths that are offered as reservable private baths; the outdoor bath is generally open from 06:00–23:00 while some indoor baths are available 24 hours.
The official information does not list a scheduled airport shuttle; most guests arrive via Yufuin Station (a short walk) or by taxi from Oita or Fukuoka airports.
Yufuin Iyotomi is about a 5–10 minute walk from JR Yufuin Station; from Fukuoka you can take the Yufuin-no-Mori train or a highway bus, and Oita Airport is reachable by taxi or car in roughly 50–60 minutes.
Staff are primarily Japanese; the ryokan provides some English information on its website and reception can assist with basic English, so a translation app is useful for detailed requests.
The ryokan serves dinner using local seasonal ingredients and a buffet breakfast; the property asks guests to notify special dietary requirements in advance so they can try to accommodate them.
Guests can expect a traditional tatami room with futon bedding, access to onsen baths reserved for private use, and meals focused on regional Oita produce for an authentic ryokan stay.
Kinrin Lake, the Yufuin Stained Glass Museum, the Norman Rockwell collection, Ogosha Shrine and the pedestrian Yunotsubo Kaido shopping street are all within walking distance or a short taxi ride.
Standard check-in starts at 15:00 (guests with dinner plans should arrive by around 18:00 to be served) and check-out is by 10:00; please inform the ryokan in advance if you expect a late arrival.
All on-site baths are reservable for private use; pets are not permitted at the property; convenience stores, cafes and small shops in Yufuin town are within easy walking distance.