Almost 5 Stars For Kamenoi Bessou Ryokan, Yufuin, Oita Prefecture

Our recent stay at the historic Kamenoi Bessou Ryokan Hotel in Yufuin, Oita Prefecture, was an unforgettable experience that left us in awe of the ryokan's charm, elegance, and exceptional service. This stunning property, originally built in 1921 as a vacation house for Kumahachi Aburaya of Beppu, is nestled on the picturesque shores of Kinrin Lake, surrounded by a vast 30,000㎡ forest that transforms with the changing seasons. The ryokan offers six guest rooms in the main building and 15 separate cottages, each equipped with its own private bath, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of the natural surroundings.

From the moment we arrived at Kamenoi Bessou, we were struck by the exceptional level of service provided by the ryokan staff. As we approached the ryokan entrance for our 3:00 pm check-in, we were greeted by a group of approximately 12 staff members, who welcomed us with the traditional Japanese ojigi style of bowing deeply, demonstrating their respect and hospitality. Throughout our stay, the staff went above and beyond to ensure our comfort and satisfaction, always available to assist us with any requests or questions we had. Their genuine warmth and attentiveness made us feel truly valued and cared for, adding to the overall sense of relaxation and contentment we experienced during our stay. Upon entering our spacious room, we were immediately struck by the perfect blend of traditional Japanese elements and modern comforts. The room was tastefully decorated with elegant furnishings, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that made us feel right at home. The highlight of our room was the stunning private natural onsen on the patio, which offered a serene and relaxing experience. The ryokan provided us with comfortable yukata, which we wore during our meals, as well as the most luxurious pajamas we've ever encountered.

One of the most memorable aspects of our stay was the music room, open from 9 to 10 pm each evening. This charming space allowed guests to immerse themselves in the enchanting melodies of classical music played on a vintage Victrola from the early 1900s. The extra large horn of the Victrola filled the room with rich, warm tones, creating a truly unique and nostalgic atmosphere.

The ryokan also boasts a natural hot springs communal onsen on the premises, with separate facilities for men and women. Although we did not have the opportunity to experience the onsen ourselves, we heard glowing reviews from other guests who raved about how pleasant and rejuvenating it was. The onsen is fed by the area's renowned hot springs, known for their therapeutic properties and ability to soothe tired muscles and promote relaxation.

Despite its location in the popular area of old Yufuin, the ryokan offered a peaceful and quiet atmosphere that allowed us to fully unwind and escape the stresses of daily life. The building's exterior, constructed from wood sourced from a disassembled Kyoto Buddhist temple, added to the wonderful ambiance and character of the property, imbuing it with a sense of history and spiritual significance. The ryokan's gardens were meticulously maintained, offering a tranquil escape and a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll or a moment of quiet reflection. The surrounding area was also a delight to explore, with numerous quaint shops, cafes, and galleries just a short walk away, each offering a unique glimpse into the local culture and craftsmanship.

We were very disappointed with the kaiseki dinner and breakfast, which we found to be quite ordinary, nothing special and deserving of only a 2 or 3-star rating, the food was the only aspect of our stay that did not meet our expectations. This is the sole reason we cannot give the ryokan a perfect 5-star review. However, the excellent service and pleasant presentation of the meals was noteworthy.

Our stay at Kamenoi Bessou from July 27th to the morning of July 28th, 2024, was an experience we will treasure for years to come. The price of $800 for two people for one night was more than justified by the ryokan's exceptional accommodations, attentive service, and unique amenities.

We wholeheartedly recommend Kamenoi Bessou to anyone seeking a luxurious and authentic Japanese getaway in the heart of Yufuin. Whether you're looking to relax in the healing waters of the onsen, explore the picturesque surroundings, or simply unwind in the comfort of your beautifully appointed room, this historic inn is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

Our stay at Kamenoi Bessou was a truly special experience. The ryokan's serene atmosphere, surrounded by nature's beauty and warm hospitality, left a lasting impression on us. We cherish the memories we made during our short stay and appreciate the opportunity to have experienced this unique ryokan. If you're looking for an authentic Japanese experience, Kamenoi Bessou is a great choice. It showcases the best of Yufuin's cultural heritage and natural beauty.