Yufuin Tsubaki
9/10 Exceptional - Based on 82 reviews
Yufuin Tsubaki sits quietly on the slope above Yufuin town, offering a small-scale, contemporary-Japanese hideaway with views toward Mount Yufu. The property is arranged as a handful of guest units that combine tatami and western-style fittings with private terraces; rooms are compact but well-appointed and designed to make the most of the rural outlook. Practical conveniences include complimentary Wi‑Fi and on-site parking, and the setting is consistently described by guests as peaceful and green rather than central to the shopping street.
The ryokan’s defining feature is its hot spring: a 100% flowing natural spring (kakenagashi) with an alkaline simple water reputed for being gentle on the skin. Many rooms include their own bathing area or open-air tub directly connected to the living space, and the property highlights 24-hour access to these in-room baths along with standard toiletries, yukata, towels and hair dryers provided for guest comfort. This combination of private bathing and uninterrupted views makes it a suitable choice for travellers seeking a ryokan with private onsen in Yufuin, Ōita.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Yufuin Tsubaki
Positive Reviews
Stunning views and peaceful setting
Many guests praised the property's hill/mountain views and quiet, green surroundings — great for relaxation and enjoying sunsets or nature.
Very friendly, attentive staff
Multiple reviews highlighted helpful, hospitable staff who assisted with check‑in, restaurant reservations, medical help, and timely shuttle/pick‑up services.
Private in‑room onsen and well‑designed villas
Guests appreciated the two‑level villas with private onsen (lower floor) and terraces facing the mountain — layout and in‑room bathing were repeatedly noted as highlights.
Clean, spacious and comfortable rooms
Rooms were described as spacious, neatly maintained and comfortable; extras like complementary water/tea/coffee and notably cozy duvets were mentioned.
Secluded location ideal for relaxation
The secluded, tranquil location was seen as perfect for recovery, hiking breaks and a calm stay away from busy areas.
Negative Reviews
On‑site restaurant/service often unavailable
Several guests reported that the advertised on‑site restaurant was not operational and recommended clearer notice; staff often helped book external dining instead.
Remote location may require a car
The property is somewhat off‑center; while many found shuttle/pick‑up helpful, several noted limited convenience for going out to dinner without a car.
Onsen access and condition issues
Some guests found access to the lower‑floor onsen steep, dark or involving stairs; a few mentioned onsen facilities feeling a bit rundown or, in one case, not working optimally.
Mattress firmness/comfort concerns
A few reviewers felt the mattresses were a bit thin or not as comfortable as expected.
Weak Wi‑Fi and evening insects/dark surroundings
Reported issues included weak Wi‑Fi signal and darker nighttime areas near the property that could allow insects to enter rooms — something to consider for those sensitive to these factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Capacity depends on room type; standard rooms sleep up to 4 on futons and the Suite Deluxe can accommodate up to 5. Please check the maximum occupancy for your selected room when booking.
Yes — each detached guest unit has its own private hot spring bath fed from the source, so you can bathe privately at any time.
The property offers a free pick‑up/drop‑off shuttle from Yufuin Station, but you must request it in advance (typically by email); shuttle hours are limited so confirm pickup times when you book.
Oita Airport is about 45 km away; the usual route is bus or train to JR Yufuin Station followed by the hotel shuttle or a short taxi ride to the ryokan.
Staff provide some English support and assist international guests, but Japanese is the primary language; send any special requests in advance to ensure clear communication.
You’ll find a traditional Japanese ryokan experience with detached cottages, tatami/futon bedding, yukata provided and in‑room hot spring baths; breakfast is offered and dinner/kaiseki options are available on certain plans.
Kinrinko Lake and the Yufuin Retro Motor Museum are a few kilometres away, with scenic views of Mt. Yufu and the town’s shops and cafes reachable by a short drive or taxi.
JR Yufuin Station is a short 5–10 minute taxi or car ride away; taxis are available at the station and the property provides free on‑site parking for guests who drive.
Check‑in is typically between 14:00 and 19:00 and check‑out between 08:00 and 10:00; if you expect to arrive late, inform the property in advance.
Pets are not permitted. The ryokan serves Asian breakfast and many rate plans include dinner; notify the hotel of any dietary restrictions or allergies at least a few days before arrival.