Taking a trip to Beppu?
Beppu is one of Japan’s most popular hot springs resorts and rightly so.
Blanketed by steam, this hot spot located on the island of Kyushu, produces more hot spring water than any other resort in the country.
For a truly relaxing break, there are a number of traditional bathhouses which are called onsens for you to take advantage of.
So why not choose a property where you can easily take a nice dip in your very own room?
There are plenty of choices so we’ve searched and found the best Beppu hotels and Ryokans (a Japanese inn) with private onsens in room.
1. AMANE resort GAHAMA
This modern five-star spa resort is set in a perfect location in the suburbs, and by the sea.
Immaculate grounds offer plenty of quiet spaces in the forest overlooking the seaside park.
There are seven different room types, with 31 rooms in total.
All of which have stunning interiors with roomy layouts, and all the facilities you could wish for such as air-conditioning, private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries, minibars, and flat-screen TVs with cable channels.
Rooms also feature an open-air hot spring bath that flows directly from the source where you can sit and soak up the atmospheric views.
Pampering treatments are available at the full-service spa which is open daily.
If you’re feeling peckish you’ll find a restaurant that focuses on fresh seafood, and also a bar overlooking the pool.
You can set yourself up for the day with a delicious Japanese breakfast.
If you’re stepping out, you’re less than a mile from the popular attractions of Oita Fragrance Museum and the Yukemori Observatory.
- Guest Rating: 9.4
- Star Rating: 5 stars
- Address: 874-0023 Oita, Beppu, Shoningahamacho 5-32, Japan
2. Kannawaen
Just 100-yards from the seven spectacular springs, also known as the Hells of Beppu, Kannawaen has everything you need for a tranquil stay.
With relaxing spaces inviting guests to enjoy the luxury of doing nothing at all, this is a place where you can really switch off.
There are 30 rooms ranging from Separate Special rooms which sleep up to eight people, to rooms which are fully western in style, or those that are Japanese-Western which is the most popular.
Japanese-Western style rooms contain indoor onsen baths where the water flows directly from the private source spring, plus they have open-air baths too.
Boasting two natural hot springs that continuously feed the baths, they have been used for centuries and are known for their healing and beautifying properties.
A dip in the Grand Public Hot Spring baths – either indoor, or open-air – is believed to aid with muscular pain, poor circulation, skin conditions, and joint stiffness, to name a few.
Guests will also find a Noh theatre, which symbolizes the centuries-old Japanese traditions and is crucial to Beppu’s culture.
To engage in some culture, we’d encourage taking part in a Japanese tea ceremony where you’ll be inspired to use all five senses and ponder both the passing of time and changing seasons.
Whilst in the area, we recommend visiting the Jigokumushikobo Kannawa, a steam cooking center, which is just 550-yards away.
Here you can experience steaming your own food before savoring your efforts.
- Guest Rating: 9.3
- Star Rating: 4 stars
- Address: 874-0045 Oita, Beppu, Kannawa 345, Japan
3. Beppu Showaen
This small but perfectly formed property highly encourages relaxing, meaningful time to sit and enjoy the sounds of nature.
Each of the 11 guest rooms feature a natural cypress indoor onsen bath and a rocky open-air bath for you to unwind and be lulled by the sounds of seasonal insects and the soothing sounds of the water.
Spacious Japanese individual houses are fitted out with traditional elements and décor including tatami flooring, futon bedding, and low table seating.
They are also equipped with flatscreen TVs, a fridge, and a kettle; tea bags, local beer, and natural water are also provided.
Breakfast and dinner are served in your room by a Nakai (personal attendant), and includes a kaiseki menu incorporating the best seasonal seafood and fresh produce.
In addition to the private onsen baths in guest rooms, Kin no Yu is a men’s and women’s open-air bath available for guest use.
Beppu Station is just an eight-minute drive away and if requested, free shuttles are available for your convenience.
- Guest Rating: 9.3
- Star Rating: 4 stars
- Address: 874-0820 Oita, Beppu, Beppu Otobaru 3783-1, Japan
4. AMANE resort SEIKAI
World-class service and ultimate relaxation can be expected at this traditional ryokan.
Luxurious and spacious rooms are fitted with dark wooden flooring and stylish furnishings, and come complete with sleep-inducing Simmons beds.
However, the highlight is undoubtedly the open-air onsens that overlook the stunning ocean.
Both the ground and top floor are dominated by large public baths and hot tubs to unwind.
Guests can also indulge in soothing massages and other treatments at the Spa Sheer Pearl.
There’s a choice of onsite dining: Gen serves traditional Japanese cuisine using seasonal and local ingredients, Eitarou serves up tantalizing seafood, while Bistro Van Nuovo is the place to go if you are after Japanese-Western fusion dishes.
Relaxing evenings can be spent sipping cocktails at terrace bar Voyage where uninterrupted views of Beppu Bay can be seen from the large windows.
- Guest Rating: 9.2
- Star Rating: 5 stars
- Address: 874-0023 Oita, Beppu, Shouningahama 6-24, Japan
5. Kappo Ryokan Kannawa Bettei
Few rooms mean few guests so you can guarantee a serene atmosphere at this boutique-style Japanese ryokan.
Rooms are huge and perfect for families who need a lot of space, many of which come with tatami flooring and futon bedding.
You will love the privacy of having an indoor and outdoor bath within your room.
The bigger family onsen which is clean and very well-maintained is available for hotel guests and can also be reserved for private use.
Dinner here is a culinary experience indeed where you can enjoy an appealing kaiseki style meal accompanied by impeccable service in the privacy of your room.
The highlight here is the thoughtful, professional staff that can’t seem to do enough for their guests.
You can also explore the area with ease thanks to the fantastic location.
Jikoku Meguri is within walking distance, and you can also find a bus stop just a five-minutes walk away where you can get to other Beppu sightseeing spots and the train station.
- Guest Rating: 9.2
- Star Rating: 4 stars
- Address: 874-0844 Oita, Beppu, Honome 1 Kumi, Japan
6. Hotel Umine
For breathtaking ocean views in a prime location in Beppu, this is the place to stay.
Spacious rooms each have a unique style but all come with a seating area, private bathroom, complimentary toiletries, hairdryers, air-conditioning, and flatscreen TV.
Start your day with a Japanese breakfast served in your room taking in the amazing views.
Relieve any fatigue from the comfort of your room whilst you sit in your private hot spring onsen and listen to the sound of the waves.
For further R&R, go to the semi-underground library where complimentary beverages are also offered.
Dinner here is a real treat, with teppanyaki such as Japanese Wagyu beef prepared by the chef at the counter, and kaiseki courses including a mouthwatering Seki Horse Mackerel which happens to be Oita’s specialty.
Other facilities include a spa, bar, terrace, and a roof-top outdoor bath offering the best sunset views.
Located on the waterfront, the location is a real plus, and within a few minutes’ walk you’ll find yourself within the vicinity of many restaurants and bars.
Beppu station is also just a ten-minute walk away.
- Guest Rating: 9.1
- Star Rating: 4 stars
- Address: 874-0920 Oita, Beppu, Kitahama 3-8-3, Japan
7. Terrace Midoubaru
If you’re looking for a couples retreat, something a little stylish and modern, then look no further.
This beautiful, architecturally designed inn is a little further out from the city, but totally worth it.
Even the light-filled lobby is a relaxing space with its high ceilings, calming interiors, and designer chairs to set the scene.
There’s just 12 rooms in total so quiet surroundings and unobtrusive personal service is guaranteed.
Well-laid out rooms are sophisticated in style with traditional touches that offer an insight into Japanese living.
You’ll find them equipped with plush beds complete with fluffy blankets, a TV with DVD player, and robes and slippers for your comfort.
They also have a semi-open-air bath where you can soak in the hot spring water soothing any ailments and skin conditions.
The chef does an excellent job serving up gourmet dishes that are varied and plentiful with colorful seasonal ingredients harvested in Oita itself.
The spa will refresh your mood as soothing treatments, traditional remedies and essential oils assist with helping you feel brand new.
If that doesn’t work, there’s also a large communal bath divided into men and women’s areas available on-site.
- Guest Rating: 9.1
- Star Rating: 3 stars
- Address: 874-0831 Oita, Beppu, Horita 5 Kumi, Japan
8. Ryotei Matsubaya
Not only is this property the epitome of modern Japanese living, but it has a lot going for it too.
Chic guestrooms adorned in Japanese aesthetics come in two styles, either traditional with futon bedding, or Western-style with wood flooring.
They all contain fridges, flatscreen TVs, air-conditioning, and some rooms have ensuite bathrooms, whilst others offer shared bathroom facilities.
Some of the rooms also contain private open-air baths.
Boasting a total of five hot springs for guest use throughout the hotel, there’s plenty of choice for a soak including an open-air bath, an Asian style half open-air bath, an indoor family bath, a couples bath, and a large moonlight bath.
Lavish Japanese meals are prepared with carefully selected fresh local ingredients.
Try Ryotei Matsubaya’s original ‘Yakushi-Yukemuri Fluffy Hot Pot’ – a frothy soup made with water from the hot spring which is popular among guests.
Something for the ladies (sorry men but it’s ladies only I’m afraid!) – for a spot of pampering, pay a visit to the onsite beauty salon Yugetsu where facial and body treatments are done using cosmetics designed to nurture and condition the skin.
- Guest Rating: 9.1
- Star Rating: 4 stars
- Address: 874-0822 Oita, Beppu, Kankaiji 3, Japan
9. ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa
Describing itself as ‘an unexpected world of sophisticated Japanese relaxation’, the facilities at this modern property certainly make this possible.
To start, the location is wonderful; resting in the foothills overlooking Beppu, you’ll be treated to views of lush mountains, the expansive bay, and of course clouds of steam from the city’s natural hot springs.
One of the larger hotels listed, this property has 89 spacious rooms and suites designed to embody the natural beauty surrounding the resort.
All of this was developed with comfort and relaxation in mind.
We’d recommend choosing one of the Club InterContinental® Rooms & Suites as each has a private onsen on the terrace, plus guests get exclusive access to the Club InterContinental Lounge.
Wellness facilities for guest use include two revitalizing public onsens – one for men and one for women, an elegant infinity pool and hot tub with unbeatable city views and a terrace area.
A comprehensive gym complete with experienced trainers is also available for active travellers.
Remedies for the mind, body, and soul are offered at the HARNN Heritage Spa, where each treatment is founded on the practices of traditional Asian medicine and naturopathy.
For the ultimate indulgence, opt for a private onsen spa treatment, or even something poolside such as a dreamy coconut oil scalp massage.
If you like to learn a bit about the culture of a destination then there are plenty of activities to get involved in on-site.
Try learning how to hand-craft Japanese pottery from a local artisan; experiencing Zazen, a traditional form of meditation at the local temple; or practicing bamboo crafting.
If you’re travelling here with younger members of the family, then there are activities for children too.
To experience the local area, hotel staff who were born and raised in Oita can take you on a guided tour, showing hidden gems only known to locals.
- Guest Rating: 9.0
- Star Rating: 5 stars
- Address: 874-0000 Oita, Beppu, 499-18 Oaza Kannawa, Aza Sarukawa, Japan
10. Bettei Haruki
Set on the banks of the Haruki River, this adult-only oasis was designed by architect Kei Matsuba.
Small and charming, the ryokan features just six rooms each with a unique atmosphere.
Accommodation is spacious and finished with soft furnishings and Japanese-style designs complete with amenities such as coffee makers, fridges, private gardens or balconies, LCD TVs, minibars, and complimentary toiletries.
Four of the rooms have private onsens: Seri, Nazuna, Gogyo, and Hakobe.
The affectionately named Nadeshiko (used to describe the ideal Japanese woman) onsen bath is available for all guest use, and there’s a pleasant veranda to chill out on after too.
We’d recommend taking a stroll around Bettei Haruki’s peaceful gardens or unwinding in the lounge with complimentary herbal teas and fruit-infused water.
Each day the chef visits the market to select fresh and local offerings for the breakfast, dinner, and bespoke selection menus, and all meals are cooked delicately and arranged with precision.
Don’t miss the Seki Mackerel sourced from the Bungo Channel, and the Bungo Beef, a local high-grade Japanese black beef.
- Guest Rating: 8.8
- Star Rating: 4 stars
- Address: 874-0834 Oita, Beppu, Shin-Beppu 4, Japan
11. Ryokan Sennari
This ryokan is very conveniently located just two-minutes away from JR Beppu Station but is still surprisingly very quiet.
It offers a classic ryokan experience focusing on Japanese hospitality, a customary garden with Koi pond, orthodox cuisine, and true to the region, energizing hot springs.
The most special element at Sennari is the heart-felt service and its core culture to ensure guests leave with good memories and plenty of smiles.
Accommodation is very traditional in style with tatami floors, and futon bedding for guests to sleep on, and some rooms have their own open-air onsen.
There’s also three common hot spring baths, one outdoor and two indoor which are free of charge, or if you’d prefer a more private experience, you can rent one to enjoy for just you and your companions.
Specializing in authentic kaiseki multi-course meals and fugu fish delicacies, the food offering here is outstanding.
Both breakfast and dinner are grand and most importantly tasty affairs.
The location is close to other restaurants and shops if you would prefer to step out to enjoy a meal or further explore.
Keep in mind that this property is not recommended for families, as you must be 13 years or older to stay here.
- Guest Rating: 8.6
- Star Rating: 3 stars
- Address: 874-0933 Oita, Beppu, Noguchi-Motomachi 2-18, Japan
12. Beppu Nagomitsuki
Located in the heart of the ancient fishing village, here ryokan culture meets modern architecture to create the perfect blend between old and new.
Guests will appreciate the modern interpretations of traditional style in the bedrooms.
Each of the 12 rooms have tatami flooring, fusuma sliding doors, shoji paper screens, and tokonoma alcoves, as well as ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries, fridges, and TVs.
For a unique experience, you can bathe under a starry sky, as all rooms have private hot spring onsens with clear views of the Beppu sky.
Dinner is an experience in itself with the highly-skilled chef cooking up Japanese Kaiseki meticulously and exquisitely embodying local flavors with seasonal ingredients.
The pretty neighborhood is easy to explore with many areas of interest such as the Oita Fragrance Museum, the Yukemori Observatory, and the Hyotan Onsen less than one mile away.
The concierge staff native to the city will be happy to help ensure you see the best that the city offers.
- Guest Rating: 8.6
- Star Rating: 3 stars
- Address: 874-0032 Oita, Beppu, Shoninhonmachi 411-5, Japan
13. Seaside Hotel Mimatsu Ooetei
This property is in an excellent location for exploring the city and is close to many attractions such as the Beppu Tower, and Beppu Art Museum.
Dependent on your preference you can choose either Japanese style rooms or Western rooms with Simmons beds.
Rooms on the sea-side offer stunning sea views.
Though slightly on the small side, rooms have a private onsen and there are also three common baths to use including two open-air baths – one for women and the other for men – and one covered which offers excellent views of the beautiful Beppu Bay.
The lobby has been created with relaxation in mind so you have somewhere you can sit and unwind.
Japanese style breakfast is served in the dining hall, and after this time you’ll also find self-serve coffee to take advantage of.
We recommend enjoying a dip in the rooftop bath at sunrise for unbeatable views.
- Guest Rating: 8.4
- Star Rating: 4 stars
- Address: 874-0920 Oita, Beppu, Kitahama 3-14-17, Japan
14. Tenku Yubo Seikaiso
Beautiful sea views are guaranteed at this pleasant property set just 100-meters from the city center and a ten-minute walk from the station.
Full renovations were made to this property in 2006 and further adaptations were made in 2019 including the front entrance which is beautifully illuminated at night.
Well-equipped rooms have everything you need including TVs, ensuites with toiletries, and personal safes.
Some rooms come with footbaths, and a few have semi-open-air baths.
There are four onsens that all face Beppu Bay allowing you to soak up views of the ocean during the day and take in views of Oita at night.
You can start your day with a Japanese set menu breakfast; the rice from Oita is delicious and very popular.
A variety of Japanese and seafood dishes are served at onsite Tenku Kaien restaurant, and kaiseki cuisine is served for dinner with a good balance of meat, fish, and vegetables.
Children’s meals can also be prepared so everyone is well catered for.
- Guest Rating: 8.2
- Star Rating: 4 stars
- Address: 874-0920 Oita, Beppu, Kitahama 3-14-3 , Japan
Map of Beppu Hotels with Onsen
With so much choice and styles varying from traditional, to western, choosing where to stay in Beppu is a difficult decision to make.
My personal preference would be the ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa.
Whilst it may not be as traditional in style as some of the other choices, it is by far the most all-encompassing.
Rooms are modern, the wellness facilities are second to none, cuisine inspired by Japan’s five elements is world-class, and there are experiences on offer too.
But, if you’re still unsure, check out even more places to stay below.
Find More Beppu Hotels with Onsen
Summary
| Beppu Onsen Hotels & Ryokan | Ratings |
| AMANE resort GAHAMA | 9.4 |
| Kannawaen | 9.3 |
| Beppu Showaen | 9.3 |
| AMANE resort SEIKAI | 9.2 |
| Kappo Ryokan Kannawa Bettei | 9.2 |
| Hotel Umine | 9.1 |
| Terrace Midoubaru | 9.1 |
| Ryotei Matsubaya | 9.1 |
| ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa | 9.0 |
| Bettei Haruki | 8.8 |
| Ryokan Sennari | 8.6 |
| Beppu Nagomitsuki | 8.6 |
| Seaside Hotel Mimatsu Ooetei | 8.4 |
| Tenku Yubo Seikaiso | 8.2 |
