The southern Japanese island of Kyushu is home to verdant forests and dramatic volcanic mountains. It's also famous for its natural hot springs, known as onsen baths, which have long been part of the Japanese wellness experience. Intimate ryokans — traditonal inns — tucked within towns, villages, and the surrounding countryside, offer public and private onsen baths, delicious cuisine and warm hospitality. The top hot spring destinations include coastal Beppu, and smaller, more tranquil Yufuin and Kurokawa Onsen. Our selection of the best ryokans with private onsens in Kyushu features luxurious hideaways perfect for couples, swish seaside spots, some charming authentic properties, and a chic boutique. Believed to have healing properties, onsen baths are a wonderful part of a rejuvenating Japanese journey!
For Traditional Charm
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Kurokawa Onsen Oyado Noshiyu is a gorgeous, adults-only ryokan in Kurokawa Onsen. Well located for exploring, this 11-room boutique spot is surrounded by verdant forest. Beamed ceilings, tatami mats and low-level dining tables give rooms with private onsens a traditional feel. The restaurant is excellent.
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Yufuin Sanso Waremokou has steaming outdoor hot spring baths with mountain views, and a terrific seasonal menu — including blowfish and a wide range of sakes. Classic rooms feature tatami mats, paper shutters and futon beds. The best have hot spring baths of their own.
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Ryokan Wakaba should be top of the list for hikers and birdwatchers, who will appreciate the leafy location. On a 1.6 acre site close to the Tanohara River and various trekking routes, this traditional ryokan has 26 pared-back rooms with low seating areas and tatami matting. Rooms in the new building have private terrace baths. The kaiseki cuisine is superb.
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Ryokan Ichinoi is a charming ryokan in the heart of Kurokawa's hot-spring district. Traditional Japanese decor creates a serene and authentic vibe. You can indulge here in either private or communal sulfur hot springs, savour meals made with mountain-grown rice, and enjoy the simple elegance of tatami rooms. A calming and relaxing stay.
For a Private Hideaway
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Beppu Showaen takes the classic ryokan concept to the next level with individual Japanese houses set amidst lush, manicured grounds. Each house features tatami matting and futon bedding, beautiful garden views and an in-room or open-air hot spring bath. The multi-course gourmet Japanese meals are exceptional — especially when served in the privacy of your own restful hideaway. A charming choice for couples or families and small groups.
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Miyama Sansou resembles a small village, with buildings set between the forest, vegetable gardens and the paddy fields. Individual cottages with private indoor or outdoor onsens promise plenty of privacy, ideal for those looking to unwind in blissful tranquility. Take long walks, hone your fishing skills, or go skiing in the winter.
For a Boutique
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Ryokan Shinsen is a boutique ryokan offering a mix of Western and Japanese-style rooms. Each room features its own rotenburo (outdoor Onsen) or cypress tubs. Interiors are traditional with plenty of wood and spacious sitting areas, and there's delicious Kyoto-style kaiseki cuisine.
For Romantic Luxury
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Takefue offers luxurious lodges nestled within an otherworldly bamboo grove. Take restful soaks in private romtemburo outdoor baths, enjoy rejuvenating massages and feast on delectable cuisine at the restaurant. A hugely romantic boutique choice close to Kurokawa Onsen, this is one of our favourite ryokans with private onsens in Kyushu.
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Yufuin Hoteiya is just outside Yufuin, but feels wonderfully quiet. Perfect for those dreaming of an authentic ryokan experience, this sophisticated hotel has tatami mats, paper shutters, and private hot spring baths. Lantern-lit evenings are gorgeous, and the seasonal menu of local dishes is fantastic.
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Yufuin Rikka has just six luxurious rooms and suites. The hotel fuses classic Japanese style with modern minimalism to create more contemporary spaces. Expect crisp white sheets, ergonomic chairs, small balconies and wood-clad walls. Add the gourmet cuisine and private onsen baths, and you're in for a romantic treat.
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Kappo Ryokan Yumesaki is a 4-star ryokan that blends modern comfort with traditional Sukiya-style rooms. Its elegant decor and serene ambience invite tranquillity and relaxation. Boasting private hot springs and exquisite local cuisine, this is perfect for a romantic getaway.
For Ocean Views
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Umikaoru Yado Hotel New Matsumi is a lovely traditional hotel in Beppu with both communal and private hot spring baths. Gaze out to sea whilst immersing yourself in the restorative waters before retreating to your tatami-matted room. A classic ryokan with impressive sea views and large family rooms. Simple and authentic.
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Amane Resort Seikai fuses cool, contemporary design with traditional Japanese elements to create a luxurious sea-facing base. The 46 rooms and suites are spacious and offer family-friendly options — some also have private terraces with their own open air baths. Unwind at the spa or hot spring baths, and dine on exemplary regional cuisine at the water's edge in Beppu. Smart and soothing.
