Yufuin Tabinokura
8,1/10 Excellent - Based on 529 reviews
Yufuin Tabinokura is a compact modern-Japanese onsen ryokan in Yufuin, Yufu, offering an informal self-service style and retro design. Refurbished in 2018, it operates a limited number of guest rooms, keeping stays intimate rather than hotel-like. Public areas display mid‑20th‑century memorabilia and a jukebox, and communal leisure spaces including a lounge with billiards and table‑tennis support group or family visits that favour flexibility over formal dining.
Hot-spring facilities are a central attraction: the property supplies natural flowing spring water to several small baths, including two indoor baths intended for private use and an outdoor lukewarm option that may close seasonally. The water is described as an alkaline simple hot spring with source temperatures reported around 50–55°C; some baths are bookable for exclusive use and availability can be checked via smartphone. Practical features include free in-room Wi‑Fi, a communal kitchen and barbecue area, free parking and a self-check-in terminal that issues keys by reservation number. As such it functions as a ryokan with private onsen in Ōita.
Situated within easy walking distance of Kinrin Lake, Yunotsubo Street and the trailheads of Mount Yufu, the lodge is roughly a 10–15 minute walk from the station and convenient for exploring Yufuin on foot. Staff are multilingual and the house’s do‑it‑yourself approach—shared kitchens, games and relaxed communal spaces—suits travellers who prioritise conviviality and autonomy. For visitors seeking a practical, well-equipped ryokan with onsen in Kyushu that balances private bathing and shared social areas, this property offers a straightforward, service-light base for short stays.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Yufuin Tabinokura
Positive Reviews
Private onsen availability
Multiple reviewers praised the property’s hot-spring facilities — there are several private onsens (including an outdoor option) that are usually available and add a relaxing experience to the stay.
Beautiful, peaceful location
Guests liked the rural setting near rice paddies, mountains and a nearby lake; it’s quiet, scenic and within walking distance of Yufuin’s main sights for those who don’t mind a short stroll.
Spacious, comfortable rooms
Many comments note large rooms (especially by local standards) with comfortable beds and high ceilings, providing good value and a relaxed vibe.
Friendly and helpful staff
Staff received frequent praise for being welcoming and helpful (booking restaurants, assisting with arrangements and thoughtful gestures), which improved guests’ experiences despite other shortcomings.
Pleasant common areas and facilities
Reviewers appreciated the cosy lounge, quirky vintage decor, a well-equipped communal kitchen, free coffee and communal spaces that make the stay social and convenient.
Negative Reviews
Property is dated and needs refurbishment
Several guests described worn or vintage decor that felt run-down; multiple reviews mention musky or moldy smells and a general need for updating in rooms and common areas.
Poor room ventilation and smell issues
Reports of unpleasant odors (bathroom urine smell, mustiness) and insufficient ventilation in some rooms affected comfort and sleep for some guests.
Noise and poor soundproofing
The accommodation is thinly insulated; guests frequently heard neighboring conversations and noises, which disturbed sleep and privacy.
Onsen limitations and temperature issues
While onsens are appreciated, reviewers noted downsides: some baths are small, some indoor/outdoor baths can be lukewarm or closed during daytime, and a small fee or booking restrictions sometimes apply.
Location drawbacks and limited services
Although scenic, the property can be a 10–20 minute walk from the train station (difficult in rain or with luggage), taxis may be unavailable early, and some guests missed amenities such as breakfast, an elevator, or fully stocked kitchen supplies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room types vary: twin/double rooms suit one to two adults, and family/tatami rooms include futons for larger groups—check the specific room description and occupancy limits when booking.
Yes. The property offers a communal hot spring bath and an outdoor (open-air) onsen fed by local Yufuin springs.
No regular shuttle is listed; the ryokan is about a 15‑minute walk from JR Yufuin Station, and guests should contact the property in advance if they need pickup assistance.
Take a regional train or highway bus to Yufuin (from Oita or Fukuoka airports), then proceed to JR Yufuin Station and walk roughly 15 minutes to the property.
Japanese is the primary language; staff can usually assist in basic English, but notify the property in advance if you need more detailed language support.
Expect a Japanesestyle stay with tatami areas, a communal lounge with retro decor, shared kitchen and barbecue facilities, free bike rental, games and family-friendly rooms.
Kinrin Lake (Kinrinko), the Kyushu Yufuin Folk Village and Yufuin’s shopping streets are all within a short walking distance from the ryokan.
Free on-site parking is available, and public access is convenient: the property is an approximate 15‑minute walk from JR Yufuin Station and served by local buses and regional trains.
Check-in is from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM and check-out is between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM; you must inform the property of your expected arrival time in advance.
Pets are not allowed; private onsen hire is not listed—contact the property to request private use; there is a shared kitchen and barbecue, and restaurants, cafes and small shops are within walking distance.