The 15 Best Ryokans in Beppu

Planning your Beppu stay and want a great ryokan? We’ve got you covered.

In Beppu, steam rises from nearly every street, a constant reminder that you’re in Japan’s onsen capital. Also, its location between the sea and the mountains means you get some great views (and photo ops), from the majestic Mount Tsurumi to rare natural sites like the ‘Hells’ or ‘Jigoku’. 

It didn’t take us long to get settled here, and staying in a ryokan made everything better. With so many options, choosing one isn’t always easy, so here are our favorite ryokans in Beppu, with options for every budget.

Where to Find the Best Ryokans in Beppu

Beppu’s ryokan culture dates back as far as the city itself and is closely tied to its hot springs (onsens). For those who don’t know, a ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn with tatami flooring and futon beds, and many in Beppu now include private open-air onsens, which work well for families or anyone wanting more privacy. Because of its natural baths, this town was once known as a place for healing, even used by wounded samurai. 

Today, it’s one of Japan’s most popular hot spring destinations, located on the southern island of Kyushu. What makes the city even more unique is the volcanic activity off Beppu Bay that creates constant steam, making the whole city look almost surreal. It might feel unusual at first, but you get used to it quickly. 

There are technically eight onsen districts, collectively known as Beppu Hatto, but we’ve narrowed it down to three major areas. There are also the famous Seven Hells of Beppu, or the ‘Jigoku Meguri’, which are hot springs that aren’t suitable for swimming but are cool to see, and that’s near Kannawa. 

If you’re already road tripping through southern Japan, a rental car seems handy. Otherwise, Beppu is a small and compact city, so you can easily get around via train, bus, or walking. 

• Kannawa Onsen – Best for classic onsen atmosphere – Staying near Kannawa Onsen puts you right in the middle of a lively area, with spots like the “Hells” within easy reach. Beppu Nagomitsuki sits at the center of it all, giving you a traditional ryokan experience without stretching your budget.

• Beppu Station/Waterfront – Best for convenience – If you don’t want to travel far for sightseeing, shopping, or dining, this part of Beppu is easy to explore on foot. AMANEK Beppu YULA-RE comes with modern Japanese-style rooms with Western comforts, including a rooftop pool with views over the city and the sea.

• Kankaiji/Beppu Hillside – Best for a luxury retreat – Make the most of Beppu’s upscale ryokans in this hillside spot, not too far from the center but far enough to enjoy a stay without disruptions. Beppu Showaen gives you that classic ryokan feel in the mountains, where the silence is filled with nothing but the sound of birds and running water in the background.

The Best Ryokans in Beppu

Kannawa Onsen

BEST FOR CLASSIC ONSEN ATMOSPHERE

Pros

• Easy access to major attractions, including Beppu’s “Hells”
• Authentic atmosphere with steam rising from every corner  

Cons

• Very quiet at night, with limited things to do
• Constant steam means a noticeable sulfur smell, which can be strong for some people

Kannawa Onsen is one of the most well-known hot spring districts in Beppu. Even though it’s close to the city, it’s much quieter, with a slower pace (mainly at night) that makes it easy to settle in. Walking around, you’ll come across onsens everywhere, some you can just walk into, along with small restaurants, souvenir shops, and parts of the Jigoku Meguri nearby.

Steam rises straight from the streets, giving the area a surreal, almost otherworldly atmosphere at night. Traditional ryokans are everywhere, but if you wander off the main streets, you’ll find quieter alleys with hidden gems to stay in and fantastic local diners.

There are also a few unique things tied to the area. Every September, a “yuami” ritual takes place at Onsensan Eifukuji Temple, where you can witness a statue of a priest being washed with hot spring water. This part of Beppu is also famous for “jigoku-mushi,” a dish steamed using the natural heat of the hot springs. It’s simple but surprisingly good!

Overall, we think Kannawa is a great base if you’re after that classic onsen-town charm and easy access to sights and transport.

Kannawaen – $$$

Kannawaen offers a more elevated take on the ryokan experience, set on a hill above the town but still right in the middle of the Hells of Beppu, so you can easily explore on foot. Despite its central location, it seems tucked away, with gardens, two hot spring baths, ponds, and even a small teahouse which invites you to sit down and relax. 

Rooms here are spacious and come with private onsens, plus there are indoor and outdoor baths if you want to switch things up. Service is seamless from start to end, you’re welcomed with a drink and can sit back while check-in is handled. 

If you can, book one of the separate Japanese-style houses for more privacy. It feels like a real home, where you’re happy just sitting on the tatami or looking out at the pond. Prices range between 48,000 and 105,000 JPY ($300 to $660 USD) per night.

Beppu Nagomitsuki – $$

Beppu Nagomitsuki is our favorite mid-range ryokan in Beppu, and we’d book it again in a heartbeat. It’s adults-only and perfect for a romantic getaway, with a great location just a 12-minute walk from the Oita Fragrance Museum.

There are only 12 rooms, each with its own semi-open-air hot spring bath (good luck leaving!). They lean more traditional, yet modern comforts are plentiful, including smart toilets and cozy beds you’ll actually look forward to after a long day out.

Dinner here is a real treat, with a kaiseki meal made from fresh vegetables and seafood. It’s a good thing the portions are generous, as we would’ve been too embarrassed to ask for seconds. Our advice: don’t miss dinner, it’s the best way to end the day!

Prices start at around 21,450 JPY ($135 USD) per night, depending on the room and season.

Kunisakisou – $

If you’re looking for an authentic and affordable place to stay, Kunisakisou is a fantastic choice! Here, you can start the evening with a game of foosball before heading up to the rooftop outdoor onsens and watching the steam rise from the city below. Best of all, it’s just a short walk to Yama Jigoku, with the Hells of Beppu less than 1 km (0.6 mi) away, so amazing sights are never far away.

The accommodations are roomy and practical, so whether you’re with friends or family, everyone has space to unwind. Prices start at around 15,000 JPY ($95 USD) per night, ideal for travelers who want to enjoy Beppu without blowing their entire travel budget.

Beppu Station & Waterfront

BEST FOR CONVENIENCE

Pros

• Easy access to trains and buses 
• Plenty of options for shopping, dining, and nightlife
• Scenic views from many ryokans 

Cons 

• The waterfront area comes with a higher price point
• Parts of the area near the station include a small red-light zone, which some may prefer to avoid

Beppu Station and Waterfront is probably the easiest place to base yourself, especially if you’re not driving. You’ve got a mix of ryokans and modern hotels, many with views over the water, and most of the restaurants and izakayas are right here, so it’s easy to head out without even thinking about it.

Around the station, it can feel a bit quiet during the day, then busier in the evening with bars and clubs. Keep in mind there’s also a small red-light area nearby, and although it’s generally safe, it gives the area a slightly rougher edge at night.

Once you move toward the waterfront, the vibe changes. It opens up; the air feels different; the ryokans become more upscale; and places like Beppu Tower dot the scenery. What stood out most was how effortless it felt to grab dinner and then wander down to the water, ending the night with a breezy walk along the bay.

AMANEK Beppu YULA-RE – $$

AMANEK Beppu YULA-RE is a standout option if you want a modern onsen hotel right in the heart of Beppu. Just a five-minute walk from Beppu Station, this stylish property combines city convenience with elevated onsen facilities, making it ideal for travelers who want to explore Beppu on foot. The highlight here is the rooftop onsen and swimming pool, which offer sweeping views over the city and create a relaxing escape above the bustle below.

Beyond the baths, the hotel features a sauna, fitness center, spa services, and contemporary communal spaces that feel more resort-like than traditional. Rooms are sleek, comfortable, and well equipped, appealing to couples, solo travelers, and anyone who prefers a modern aesthetic over a classic ryokan vibe. 

With Beppu Tower, the waterfront, and restaurants nearby, it’s an easy base for sightseeing. Rooms generally start around 30,000–60,000 JPY ($200–$400 USD) per night.

Seaside Hotel Mimatsu Ooetei – $$

Seaside Hotel Mimatsu Ooetei sits right on Beppu Bay, with Japanese-modern rooms that open up to stunning beach views. Inside, you can unwind in the lounge with a free cup of coffee, while the sound of the piano eases you into the day. At night, the rooftop onsen is a popular spot, especially with the glow of the fishing lights.

This ryokan is also close to Seria and Don Quijote, making it easy to grab anything you might need. Dining highlights local gourmet dishes, from tender Bungo beef steak to Seki mackerel, a nationally renowned fish. A nice bonus is the free parking right next to the hotel.

Prices range from 19,000 to 64,000 JPY ($120 to $400 USD) per night, and considering what’s included, it feels like a bargain.

Ooedo Onsen Monogatari Beppu Seifu – $$

Overlooking Beppu Bay, Ooedo Onsen Monogatari Beppu Seifu is a nice in-between option with plenty of perks. It’s easy to settle into, and everything seems thoughtfully arranged despite the simple rooms. The location is close to Beppu Tower and JR Beppu Station, yet it is still rather peaceful. 

What really stands out here is the scenery. From the baths to the dining area, you’re always looking out over the ocean. Time spent in the rooftop onsen, whether early in the morning or late at night, is something you’ll always remember. Overall, it’s a laid-back stay with beautiful surroundings, and a great deal if you’re traveling with family or as a couple.

Expect to pay anywhere between 27,000 and 63,500 JPY ($170 to $400 USD), depending on the room type and travel date.

Hana Beppu – $$

Hana Beppu offers a peaceful stay with a lounge that faces a Zen garden, along with an indoor and outdoor onsen to help calm you down, no matter where you are. Rooms are clean and spacious, with bamboo details that create a calm atmosphere without trying too hard. Best of all, Beppu Park is a short walk away if you want to stretch your legs surrounded by even more tranquility.

We love how thoughtful everything here is. For starters, you’re welcomed with a cold yuzu drink waiting in the fridge and steamed buns in the lobby, along with tea and coffee. Don’t be surprised, but as with most ryokans, shoes come off at the entrance, and even luggage wheels are cleaned, which gives you a sense of how much care goes into the place.

Rates typically start from around 36,600 JPY ($230 USD) per night.

Umino Hotel Hajime – $

Umino Hotel Hajime is a great pick if you want an oceanfront onsen stay with a traditional feel and excellent value. Located right by Beppu Bay and about a 10-minute walk from Beppu Station, this hotel puts you close to both the waterfront and some of the city’s most famous bathhouses. Takegawara Onsen, known for its sand baths, is just a short walk away.

Rooms feature classic Japanese-style decor with tatami floors and futon bedding, and all include private bathrooms fed with natural hot spring water. Guests can soak in indoor and outdoor public baths with sea views, relax in the sauna, or reserve a private onsen bath for a quieter experience. 

The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it especially popular with couples. Rooms generally range from 13,000–45,000 JPY ($90–$300 USD) per night, depending on view and meal inclusions.

Tenku Yubo Seikaiso – $ 

Tenku Yubo Seikaiso is a seaside, budget-friendly ryokan with a traditional feel, located right along the waterfront in Beppu. It does show a bit of age in places, but it’s well kept, and that slightly worn look just adds to the charm. 

Meals here are the highlight, prepared classic ryokan style, with beef and fried chicken, which is very typical for Beppu. The best part, though, is that the staff brings each dish and explains how to enjoy it, which sauce goes with what, making the whole experience feel more personal.

After a long day out, the all-night public onsen is more than welcome. You’ll probably find yourself spending lots of time there and staying late just to hear the waves crashing. If you want something more private, there’s a family onsen on the roof with open views over Beppu.

Prices range from around 14,300 to 43,000 JPY ($90 to $270 USD) per night. 

Kankaiji/Beppu Hillside 

BEST FOR A LUXURY RETREAT

Pros 

• Scenic views and peaceful surroundings
• A variety of upscale accommodations, ideal for families 

Cons 

• Limited things to do at night 
• You will likely need to rely on hotel shuttle buses or taxis to get around 

A stay in Kankaiji/Beppu Hillside feels quite different from the station area or busy Kannawa. It’s quieter, greener, more polished, and comes with sprawling ocean views. At the same time, you’re still close to key spots like the Beppu Ropeway, Rakutenchi amusement park, and even a 900-year-old shrine with a natural archway from ancient trees (couples here walk through hand in hand for good luck).

The majority of ryokans sit on the hills overlooking Beppu Bay or along the quieter northern coast. They are much larger, luxury resorts with scenic open-air baths and plenty of entertainment facilities, making them ideal for families. It’s so peaceful, you’ll look forward to returning at night for a guaranteed good rest.

If you’re feeling adventurous, find the ropeway near the base of the hillside, and it will take you up to the 1,375-meter (4,511 ft) summit of Mount Tsurumi. It’s just a 10-minute ride, but the views are remarkable, and on a clear day, you can see surprisingly far. Getting to the hillside is easy, about 3 km (1.9 miles) from the station, so a taxi isn’t expensive. Just keep in mind the slopes can be steep, especially if you’re walking with luggage.

AMANE resort GAHAMA – $$$ 

AMANE resort GAHAMA is everything you’d want from a polished Beppu stay, with modern spaces, high-end cuisine, amazing sea views, and onsens that remind you what Beppu does best. It’s a large property with plenty to do, and the garden is an easy place to spend time in the evening when everything quiets down.

The location just a short walk from Oita Fragrance Museum and Beppu Tower, so you’re close to the main attractions while still enjoying a peaceful stay. Food here is impressive, with fancy seafood served in a quiet, modern restaurant. All in all, we think this place works well for families while still feeling upscale.

You can typically expect to pay around 52,400 to 122,400 JPY per night (roughly $330 to $770 USD), depending on the season.

Beppu Showaen – $$$

If you’re after a traditional ryokan experience, Beppu Showaen is a great choice. This place is special for many reasons, but what we like most is how serene everything is. Set on a hillside by the mountains, it’s quiet enough that you mostly hear birds and running water, which makes it easy to forget you’re still in the city. 

With only nine villas, it feels more like staying in your own private space, each with its own onsen. Inside, you’ll find tatami flooring and traditional futon bedding (quite comfortable, actually). Families will appreciate how close it is to Rakutenchi Amusement Park, and extras like a free shuttle to the train station make getting around much easier.

Prices start at 36,500 JPY ($230 USD) per night. 

SEKIYA RESORT Bettei Haruki – $$$

SEKIYA RESORT Bettei Haruki is the ultimate ryokan experience with a full-service spa, tucked away in a quiet area of Beppu. Since it’s adults only, you can expect the rest you’re probably looking for, especially if you plan to spend time in the spa. Even if you don’t, relaxing in your own onsen is enough to recharge and enjoy complete privacy.

When you feel like stretching your legs, there’s plenty to explore around the property, starting with the garden. Meals are usually brought straight to your room, so you can just stay in and take your time. With only six rooms, it never feels busy, and the mix of traditional Japanese style with a few Western touches allows you to get comfortable in no time.

Prices usually start from around 31,800 JPY ($200 USD) per night.

SEKIYA RESORT Terrace Midoubaru – $$$

SEKIYA RESORT Terrace Midoubaru is a modern hillside ryokan overlooking Beppu Bay and the entire city below. It almost feels like your own private retreat, but you’re still just a quick taxi or bus ride from the city center or the train station. Rooms are spacious and stylish. One thing that stands out is the in-room TV with English movies on demand, which you don’t always get in other ryokans. 

Since it’s a bit removed, it makes sense to stay in for dinner. Both dinner and breakfast are set menus, very Japanese, and done really well. Nightly rates generally range between 32,000 and 60,400 JPY ($200 to $380 USD) per night, depending on the room and travel date.

AMANE resort SEIKAI – $$$

AMANE resort SEIKAI is one of Beppu’s most impressive onsen hotels, especially if ocean views are high on your wish list. Located along the coastline near JR Beppu Daigaku Station, this resort pairs Beppu’s famous hot spring culture with a serene seaside setting. Many rooms feature private open-air onsen baths overlooking the sea, making sunset soaks a real highlight of the stay.

In addition to private baths, guests have access to large public onsens on both the ground floor and top floor, along with a full-service spa offering massages and treatments. The atmosphere here feels polished and relaxing, ideal for couples or travelers looking for a more refined onsen experience. 

Dining is another standout, with multiple on-site restaurants serving fresh seafood and seasonal Japanese cuisine. Rooms generally start around 35,000–150,000 JPY ($230–$1,000 USD) per night.

Takumi Haru no Yado Shinan 匠晴の宿 心庵 – $$ 

Takumi Haru no Yado Shinan 匠晴の宿 心庵 is an excellent mid-range option, but it offers far more than you’d expect, with a high-end experience that stands out. It’s not far from central Beppu and most local spots, making it convenient for dining and exploring while still offering a relaxed atmosphere.

Rooms are clean and spacious, designed in a typical Japanese style, and each one comes with its own private indoor and outdoor hot spring baths. You can adjust the temperature to your liking, and having that much space, plus peaceful surroundings, makes it easy to let all of your worries disappear (well, at least for a few nights).

Since no meals are provided, you’re free to eat whenever and wherever you want, which makes the stay even more flexible. Prices usually start from around 32,000 JPY ($200 USD) per night.

Top Activities to do in Beppu

Now that you’ve settled on your ryokan in Beppu, it’s time to plan your itinerary! To make things easier, we’ve narrowed down the best things to do in Beppu so you can make the most of your stay. Here are some of the things we loved the most!

• Soar over Beppu & explore Yufuin – Ride the Beppu Ropeway for stunning city views, then wander the charming streets of Yufuin and scenic Lake Kinrin. This private tour also includes a stop at Umi Jigoku, one of Beppu’s famous “hells.”

• Cook authentic Beppu Dango soup – Learn to make dango‑jiru, a traditional noodle soup, in a renovated Japanese home. This hands-on cooking tour lets you follow a local chef’s guidance and enjoy the delicious meal you’ve created.

• Master Japanese calligraphy – Try your hand at traditional calligraphy in a beautifully restored Japanese house during this culture lesson. It provides expert instruction, guiding each brushstroke for a calming, immersive experience.

• Discover Beppu’s art & crafts – Walk through local galleries, artisan shops, and studios to see traditional crafts in action. This walking tour gives you the chance to meet makers and explore how Beppu blends culture with modern creativity.

• Create your own bamboo wind chime – Experience the tranquility of Japanese artisanship while making your own bamboo lantern in this hands-on workshop. You’ll choose your bamboo piece, decorate it, and take home a beautiful, lasting souvenir.

Thanks for reading!

Staying in Beppu gives you more than just a quick onsen stop—it’s a chance to soak in the city’s steaming streets, traditional ryokan charm, and local culture at your own pace. Each area has its own vibe, from the lively hot spring districts to quieter coastal spots, so choose the stay that fits your style. Just make sure to book early, as the best ryokans and private onsens fill up fast during peak travel seasons.

If your Beppu adventure is still in the works, dive into our other Japan guides. We cover everything from detailed itineraries to the best places to stay and can’t-miss activities. Or keep reading for some of our favorite guides below to get you inspired!

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