Yufuin Sansuikan
8,5/10 Excellent - Based on 183 reviews
Yufuin Sansuikan is a long-established ryokan set within the rural townscape of Yufuin and positioned to showcase views of Mount Yufu. The property foregrounds its mineral springs, offering open-air baths that draw on an alkaline, simple hot-spring source and are framed by seasonal scenery — from cherry blossoms to autumn colour — creating a quietly scenic soak. Its mix of traditional Japanese design and contemporary comforts makes it a recognizable ryokan with onsen in Yufuin, Ōita.
Guest accommodation ranges from tatami-style rooms to modernised spaces that preserve Japanese lines while adding in-room conveniences; many rooms and public areas are arranged to maximise mountain views. Dining is presented chiefly as an executive buffet concept, with rotating seasonal selections and an all-inclusive option for guests who prefer a single, consolidated experience. On-site amenities include a public sauna, a garden, luggage storage and complimentary Wi‑Fi, while free parking and a short walk to the station make arrivals straightforward.
Practically, the ryokan operates day-use bathing windows and communicates schedule changes and facility notices on its information pages, so travellers planning a visit should check current hours before arrival. The scale and layout favour families and groups as well as solo travellers seeking restorative soaking and easy access to Yufuin’s galleries and walking routes; its setting and bathing facilities typify a ryokan with onsen in Ōita Prefecture for visitors prioritising views, on-site bathing and seasonal scenery.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Yufuin Sansuikan
Positive Reviews
High-quality meals with local ingredients
Many guests praised the dinner and breakfast buffets, noting elaborate preparation, use of local Oita specialties, wagyu and crab legs, and passionate chefs—guests repeatedly highlighted delicious dinners and varied breakfast offerings.
Excellent onsen and outdoor baths with mountain views
The hot spring facilities, including an outdoor onsen with fantastic mountain views and a rotation system allowing both genders to enjoy different baths, were consistently praised as a highlight.
All‑you‑can‑drink, snacks and kid‑friendly extras
The inclusive free drinks, self‑brewed beer, and post‑onsen treats (ice cream, cotton candy, chocolate fountain and free snacks) were appreciated, especially by families with children.
Convenient location and transport options
Reviewers noted a great location close to Yufuin Station and shopping; some mentioned a hotel van shuttle from the station and free parking, making arrival and local access easy.
Helpful, friendly staff and good service
Several guests highlighted friendly, attentive staff who provided useful assistance (including help for elderly family members), contributing to a positive stay.
Negative Reviews
Dated facilities and worn decor
Multiple reviews mentioned the hotel and rooms feeling old or in need of refurbishment—stained carpets, worn finishings and generally dated decoration reducing perceived value.
Cleanliness and hallway odor issues
Some guests reported dust, unpleasant smells in hallways, and cleanliness problems that affected comfort (including dust causing allergy-related sleep disturbances).
Limited buffet variety / inconsistent breakfast quality
A number of guests requested more variety in the buffet (e.g., sashimi, sushi, shabu‑shabu) and a few described the breakfast as poor or less satisfactory compared with dinner.
Outdated in‑room amenities
Comments included small TVs, tired furniture and a need for more intentional room furnishings, which made rooms feel less comfortable despite being spacious.
Communication and rigid policies
A few guests experienced language/communication difficulties with staff and noted strict enforcement of checkout times, which was stressful for families with young children.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room types include twin, triple and Japanese-style rooms; some rooms sleep up to four guests (Japanese quadruple). Cribs and extra beds are not available, so please add children’s ages when booking.
Yes — the ryokan has indoor and open-air hot spring baths with Mount Yufu views and a communal sauna. Bath hours and gender rotations are scheduled daily, so check the front desk on arrival for the current timetable.
Public baths generally open in the afternoon and again in the early morning with gender-swapped schedules; the property posts the exact times at check-in. The facility operates a sauna with separate operating hours; confirm times at reception.
Private onsen rental is not listed as a standard room feature; the property mainly offers communal indoor and outdoor baths. If you require a private or reserved bath session, contact the ryokan in advance to ask about availability.
Tattoos may not be permitted in public bathing areas and could restrict access to the onsen. Guests with tattoos should inquire with the property before arrival.
There is no regular airport shuttle listed; the ryokan is a short walk from JR Yufuin Station (about 6–8 minutes). For airport transfers, travel by public bus or train to Yufuin Station or arrange private transfer in advance.
By train, walk roughly 6–8 minutes from JR Yufuin Station to the property; by car, it is reachable from the Yufuin IC in about 10–15 minutes. The official site and reception provide detailed directions — please inform the property of your arrival time in advance.
Check-in is from 15:00 to 19:00 and check-out from 08:00 to 10:00; the ryokan asks guests to provide an expected arrival time. Note that guests checking in after 19:00 may not be served dinner, so notify the property if you expect a late arrival.
On-site parking is available for guests, and Yufuin’s main shopping street and convenience stores are within easy walking distance from the ryokan. Staff can advise on nearby supermarkets or convenience store locations.
The property offers seasonal buffet-style meals for breakfast and dinner (branded as an executive buffet); dinner reservations should be made at least one day in advance. Special dietary requests can be noted when booking or by contacting the ryokan prior to arrival.