Top Hotels in Aso-gun Bed and Breakfast Inns
Top Things to do in Aso-gun
The 10 best Bed and Breakfast Inns in Aso-gun, Japan
Discover the best Bed and Breakfast Inns in Aso-gun, Kumamoto Prefecture, Kyushu including Ryokan Wakaba, Oyado Noshiyu, Miyama Sanso, Yamamizuki, Oyado Nonohana, Takefue, Yamabiko Ryokan, Kurokawaso, Bettei Soan, Hanare no Yado Hanagokoro.
Things to do in Aso-gun
1. Ryokan Wakaba
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 149 reviews
Wakaba Ryokan is a small and friendly,family-run Japanese- style inn near the centre of Kurokawa
Exquisite ryokan with private onsen
Reviewed By Elizabeth TA very cosy ryokan just beside the river and close to the centre of Kurogawa old town. We stayed in room 105 which was at the end of the ryokan and very quiet and private. They have a public and family onsen. Need to reserve the 50-min private onsen in advance and it is open until very late. The public onsen opens at 6.30am so if you are there early, you will have the whole onsen overlooking a bamboo forest all by yourself. Very therapeutic. Fantastic breakfast too.
2. Oyado Noshiyu
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 203 reviews
Our facility is not new, and there are some steps but we make good use of that geological features. We are particular about serving cuisine one by one, and you will see how fresh our cuisine is! We serve free coffee and tea at our lounge. You can also enjoy 3 different types of family hot springs for free while you are staying.
Disappointing
Reviewed By SCP905This is an old onsen as they describe themselves, but not with traditional over the top service as you might expect. We paid a premium for a private bath that was lovely with quite a large room. We were glad we had it because when we went to the communal hot bath you had to wait on line to use one of only 3 places to wash. Lightning is an issue if you want to read anything other than a backlit device. The food was average for a ryokan and served so quickly that dishes piled up on our table getting cold before we could eat them. When we asked them to please slow down, they simply let the food get cold in the kitchen. Our biggest complaint was the attitude of the English speaking hostess. She was abrupt, pushy and really made us angry when she demanded we pay in cash even though our confirmation clearly stated Visa. If you have never had a ryokan experience, this would give you a chance to experience an old one with pretty gardens but don’t expect more.
3. Miyama Sanso
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 48 reviews
See why so many travelers make Miyama Sanso their onsen ryokan of choice when visiting Minamioguni-machi. Providing an ideal mix of value, comfort and convenience, it offers a romantic setting with an array of amenities designed for travelers like you. Guest rooms offer amenities such as a flat screen TV, a refrigerator, and air conditioning, and guests can go online with free wifi offered by the onsen ryokan. Miyama Sanso features a 24 hour front desk, room service, and newspaper, to help make your stay more enjoyable. The property also boasts a hot tub and an on-site restaurant. If you are driving to Miyama Sanso, free parking is available. For those interested in checking out popular landmarks while visiting Minamioguni-machi, Miyama Sanso is located a short distance from Kurokawa Jizoson (0.9 mi) and Kohagiyama Inari Shrine (1.5 mi). When you’re feeling hungry, be sure to check out Ufufu, Cafe Ciel, and Cafe & Kitchen Fudo, which are some cafes that are popular with locals and out-of-towners alike. If you’re looking for something to do, Hiranodai Highland Viewing Platform (0.4 mi) is a nice way to spend some time, and it is within walking distance of Miyama Sanso. We’re sure you’ll enjoy your stay at Miyama Sanso as you experience all of the things Minamioguni-machi has to offer.
A good place for relax
Reviewed By benjaminl830It was my second time to Aso district. This time my wife and I spent some quality time to Miyama Sanso. It is a beautiful place for chill and relax. The staff are super friendly and nice. I strongly recommend visitors to go and feel their Zen Environment.
4. Yamamizuki
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 304 reviews
Hot SpringOutdoor Hot SpringsOur alluring outdoor hot springs, which provide you the luxury of being one with nature along side a beautiful natural mountain stream, lush with trees is an experience worth encountering. The sound of the water trickling through the mountains while soaking in the hot springs is such an enriching experience that you will never want it to end. Enjoy the splendor of “Yamamizuki,” a symbol that cherishes nature and comfort.
I have to come back every year.
Reviewed By alcokittyWords cannot describe this heavenly Ryokan. Exceptionally clean rooms (take this for granted as you travel in Japan but here it is another level), amazing 10 courses breakfast and dinner (maybe more) with chef's special menu each time I revisited, and the top of the world indoor /outdoor onsen....it is my third visit and will come back one day. This is the place where true luxury is, surrounded by kind people, culture and nature.
5. Oyado Nonohana
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 63 reviews
Finding an ideal romantic onsen ryokan in Minamioguni-machi does not have to be difficult. Welcome to Oyado Nonohana, a nice option for travelers like you. While staying at Oyado Nonohana, visitors can check out Kurokawa Jizoson (0.9 mi) and Kohagiyama Inari Shrine (1.6 mi), some of Minamioguni-machi's top attractions. Guest rooms offer amenities such as air conditioning, and guests can go online with free wifi offered by the onsen ryokan. Guests arriving by vehicle have access to free parking. Minamioguni-machi has plenty of Asian restaurants. So when you’re here, be sure to check out popular spots like Shirakawa Soba Kakurean and Yamanomeshi Shala, which are serving up some great dishes. Plus, during your trip, don't forget to check out a park, such as Tateiwa Suigen Park. Oyado Nonohana looks forward to welcoming you on your visit to Minamioguni-machi.
Amazing
Reviewed By Q9788TAlisasThe people here are lovely. The accommodation was huge with fantastic views. The food and meal service was unbeatable and the little things, like afternoon tea & cake and after dinner fruit just add the final touches to the constant terrific service. The private and public outdoor onsen were both such a highlight that i won't forget anytime soon, though i think my partner would have liked a western style indoor shower haha. I highly recommend a stay here.
6. Takefue
Overall Ratings
5 based on 417 reviews
See why so many travelers make Takefue their onsen ryokan of choice when visiting Minamioguni-machi. Providing an ideal mix of value, comfort and convenience, it offers a family-friendly setting with an array of amenities designed for travelers like you. Given the close proximity of popular landmarks, such as Hiranodai Highland Viewing Platform (1.4 mi) and Kohagiyama Inari Shrine (2.0 mi), guests of Takefue can easily experience some of Minamioguni-machi's most well known attractions. You’ll enjoy relaxing rooms that offer air conditioning, a refrigerator, and a minibar, and you can stay connected during your stay as Takefue offers guests free wifi. The onsen ryokan features a concierge, room service, and a gift shop. Plus, Takefue offers a hot tub and free breakfast, providing a pleasant respite from your busy day. For guests with a vehicle, free parking is available. If you’re looking for an Italian restaurant, consider a visit to Pizzeria Tre Passo, which is not far from Takefue. If you are interested in exploring Minamioguni-machi, check out a park, such as Tateiwa Suigen Park. At Takefue, your comfort and satisfaction come first, and they look forward to welcoming you to Minamioguni-machi.
The #1 "destination" luxury ryokan in Japan
Reviewed By KI-NRTJapan has no shortage of incredible sightseeing spots, charming Onsen towns, and amazing luxury ryokans. Even with that said - of all of the ryokans we have ever stayed at, Takefue is our absolute favorite. It's also one of the few properties that's worth visiting for the incredible ryokan experience itself. Before I get into the superlatives, let's get a few minor (some of them potential) gotchas out of the way, for those that care. First, Takefue is not located in the center of an Onsen town; it's about a 10-minute drive away from the main Kurokawa Onsen strip that contains many ryokans, shops and restaurants. If your idea of a good time is to dress in a Yukata, step out of your ryokan and stroll along a pretty town, then Takefue won't cut it. Secondly, there are numerous steps throughout the property - not only that, but many of them are stone steps (not uniform in size and shape), so footing can be tricky in places. If someone in your group has mobility issues, it will be challenging - if not impossible - to effectively navigate around the premises. Finally, the immediate vicinity of Takefue does not contain any "must-see" places or "gotta experience" things nearby. By comparison, Hakone and Kawaguchiko has Mt. Fuji, the Nikko area has amazing UNESCO temples and waterfalls, and Kinosaki Onsen/Kaga Onsen have the incredible (seasonal) Snow Crabs. Oh, and one more thing... unless you intend to stay within the property for the majority (if not all) of your time, you'll really need a rental car to get around - trains and buses are very inconvenient in this part of rural Japan. As mentioned in the beginning - as a ryokan, Takefue really has no peer. It ticks all of the obligatory luxury ryokan boxes... spacious rooms, the ability to have meals in your own room, outdoor open-air Onsen baths (for most, but not all rooms - make sure you do your research), and - yes - sky-high room rates befitting of one of the best properties in Japan. The aformentioned aspects are increasingly difficult to find, and each of them - at least for us anyway - are priorities when choosing a place to stay, so Takefue fit the bill on paper. But Takefue is much, much more than that. As soon as you enter the property, you'll feel like you're in another (fantasy) world. The massive poperty has only 12 rooms scattered throughout a gorgeous bamboo forest (it should be noted that they are in the process of building 4 more rooms.) It would be an injustice to simply say that Takefue has a beautiful "garden;" the entire property is surrounded by nature, and there are man-made accents (a pretty waterfall, several ponds with Koi fish, etc.) that really give it a super charming and relaxing vibe to the overall grounds. The sheer beauty is further elevated in the evenings, when the entire property is subtly lit-up - the bamboo forest, the waterfall in the courtyard, the lamps along the walkways... the entire grounds is made to look like something out of a fairy tale. On top of that, the attention to detail is very apparent, with wooden buckets scattered in streams and ponds filled with water and soft drinks as well as a wide variety of local ice cream flavors that guests can help themselves to any time of the day and night. Each day, you get to choose from an assortment of different Yukata designs to wear, which also adds a really nice bonus for those that enjoy the pseudo-cosplay experience when staying at a Ryokan. And in the evenings, some of the Onsens (including the Outdoor bath in our room) are littered with Yuzu (a citrus fruit), adding a wonderful aroma to the bath. We spent 3 nights in Shien-an, one of three "special rooms" at Takefue. It's a massive room that contains a Japanese "Irori" (open hearth) dining area, a Japanese sitting room, a bedroom with two large Western beds, a Western-style sitting area near the main veranda, a small secondary room upstairs... we love to be spoiled by expansive rooms, and Shien-an was one of the grandest ones we've ever stayed in. They also have a minibar (with a ton of various drink options), a Nespresso machine as well as various snacks - all complimentary. But the true star of the room was what was outside. Aside from the incredible indoor Onsen bath (it's not your typical small wooden bath - it's built with large stones giving it a cave-like vibe), there are a total of 3 different baths in the yard. There's the massive main Onsen, a really awesome foot bath, and finally a shallower bath intended for guests to lay back while soaking in the Onsen without drowning. The latter was a cool concept but wasn't super functional in practice. The architecture and design of Shien-an (and, for that matter, the entire property) is traditional Japanese but accomplished in a contemporary way, with all of the comfort and amenities you would expect - heated floors, proper insulation, blazing-fast WiFi, flat-screen televisions, massive windows with views of the bamboo trees, etc. With such an amazing room and in-room Onsen baths, we initially didn't feel compelled to try out the other on-premise Onsens that can be booked for private use, but we're super glad that we did! There are a total of 3 baths within Takefue that can be rented for anywhere between 45 minutes to 1 hour, and they each are amazing in their own ways. Chikujo No Ma (竹城の間) is a massive bath that is almost the size of a lap pool. Dokutsuburo (洞窟風呂) stands for "Cave Bath," and that's exactly what it is. You get to bathe inside a semi-man-made cave. The third - and our favorite - Onsen was Chikurin No Yu (竹林の湯), which means "Bamboo Forest Bath." It splits the size between the other two (meaning it's massive), has two separate bath areas, and is surrounded by the most beautiful bamboo forest that's especially picturesque when lit-up at night. A word of note: Chikujo No Ma is only bookable by guests staying at one of the three "special rooms," although you might want to inquire about the possibility of renting it out if you notify them in advance, particularly if it's for a special occasion. Another thing to point out - there are no "communal" baths at Takefue - you can either enjoy the Onsen(s) that are part of your room, or rent out the private ones. Takefue is all about bespoke, private experiences for each group of guests. Dining wise, we also broke our own rules. Although we (almost) always prefer to have meals in the comfort of our own - large - rooms, at their recommendation we elected to have our second (of three) dinners in a room overlooking the main courtyard. The private room has floor-to-ceiling windows with incredible views of the forest and waterfall, and also had the world's largest Kumamon (Kumamoto Prefecture's famous mascot) stuffed doll in the room, which added a ton of charm to the experience. While the standard meals are kaiseki, they have several variations that you can choose from, assuming you notify them with sufficient advance notice. We chose to try out the Suppon (soft-shelled turtle) course; Suppon is a real delicacy in Japan, even more so than Fugu, and while once a year (or so) is probably enough to have our fill of Suppon, we're glad to have tried it - they did a very good job with it. All of the other offerings were similarly excellent. That said, relative to everything else that's amazing at Takefue, we did not find the food to be similarly otherworldly. It was great, and probably lands in the top 10 in terms of best ryokan meals, but it's not #1 like everything else about Takefue. The breakfast in particular was quite unimaginative, with the spread not being as massive and varied as ones that we've experienced in other ryokans. We went for the Western meal in one of the mornings, and while it was good, I'd give it a pass. That defeats the whole purpose of staying at a ryokan, right? The customer service at Takefue was also another highlight. The good vibes started even before we arrived at the property. We received a phone call the day before check-in by a superviser, informing us of the weather in the area (there are wildly varying micro-climates in the region), reconfirming our reservation as well as our food allergies/preferences, and asking us if there was anything special they could prepare to make our stay as memorable as can possibly be. Upon arrival, we were greeted "Nakai-san" (i.e. room attendant), Ms. Funama, who was assigned to us throughout the duration of our entire stay. She was accompanied by Ms. Hamada, a trainee, who was just as warm, exquisite and polished as everyone else at Takefue. Ms. Funama is a 10+ year veteran who is an encyclopedia of knowledge about the property, the area (and beyond), the food... everything. She served as our waitress, Sake sommelier, concierge and front desk assistant, and did it with amazing grace and proactiveness. Takefue as a property is first rate, but the people there also are a notch above the vast majority of the other luxury ryokans that we've had the pleasure of staying at. We've had the pleasure of staying at many top luxury ryokans throughout the country. Most of them were incredible, and lived up to expectations. Takefue stands out by providing a truly memorable experience that we'll fondly remember for the rest of our lives.
7. Yamabiko Ryokan
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 104 reviews
Everyone needs a place to lay their weary head. For travelers visiting Minamioguni-machi, Yamabiko Ryokan is an excellent choice for rest and rejuvenation. Well-known for its family-friendly environment and proximity to great restaurants and attractions, Yamabiko Ryokan makes it easy to enjoy the best of Minamioguni-machi. You’ll enjoy relaxing rooms that offer a flat screen TV and air conditioning, bringing comfort and convenience to your visit. The onsen ryokan features a 24 hour front desk, shops, and a gift shop. Plus, Yamabiko Ryokan offers a sauna, providing a pleasant respite from your busy day. For guests with a vehicle, free parking is available. Nearby landmarks such as Kohagiyama Inari Shrine (0.9 mi) and Manganji Temple (2.5 mi) make Yamabiko Ryokan a great place to stay when visiting Minamioguni-machi. While in Minamioguni-machi be sure to experience nearby Asian restaurants such as Yamanomeshi Shala, Shirakawa Soba Kakurean, or Sansen Somoku. Plus, during your trip, don't forget to check out a waterfall, such as Meotodaki Falls. Yamabiko Ryokan is sure to make your visit to Minamioguni-machi one worth remembering.
What a Gem
Reviewed By xiaoxuanI have stayed in several ryokan in my previous trip to Japan and this is by far my favourite. It overlooks a river and the place is sparkling clean. Room is big for our party of 5! There are 6 private Onsen / family bath who we enjoyed. There absolutely no need to look for attached bathroom. The outdoor Onsen has a very nice setting. The Onsen street has some nice little shops. There are limited food options so best to book with breakfast and dinner which was of very high quality and served in private room. We enjoyed so much we wanted to stay an extra night but they were fully booked. Kurosawa Onsen area is a little hard to get to without a car though. Pricing in this area is a little steep but worth the price. I highly recommend this ryokan if you are undecided which one to book in this area.
8. Kurokawaso
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 153 reviews
Everyone needs a place to lay their weary head. For travelers visiting Minamioguni-machi, Kurokawaso is an excellent choice for rest and rejuvenation. Well-known for its family-friendly environment and proximity to great restaurants and attractions, Kurokawaso makes it easy to enjoy the best of Minamioguni-machi. Rooms at Kurokawaso offer air conditioning providing exceptional comfort and convenience. Shops and baggage storage are some of the conveniences offered at this onsen ryokan. A sauna and a lounge will also help to make your stay even more special. If you are driving to Kurokawaso, free parking is available. Close to some of Minamioguni-machi's most popular landmarks, such as Hiranodai Highland Viewing Platform (1.3 mi) and Manganji Temple (2.4 mi), Kurokawaso is a great destination for tourists. If you like Asian restaurants, Kurokawaso is conveniently located near Yamanomeshi Shala, Shirakawa Soba Kakurean, and Sansen Somoku. Plus, during your trip, don't forget to check out a waterfall, such as Meotodaki Falls. Kurokawaso is sure to make your visit to Minamioguni-machi one worth remembering.
Perfekt Ryokan with great food
Reviewed By Rubecula1980The Kurokawaso is a Ryokan complete in every respect. The loaction at the river is beautiful, the rooms traditional, spacious, clean and quite. The private onsen as well as the shared onsen are really nice. Maybe the best at all is the food. The dinneris fresh, rich, imaginative and nice arranged. It´s served on the room, while the comprehensive breakfast is served in a common room. The staff is very friendly and helpful, English is no problem.
9. Bettei Soan
Overall Ratings
4 based on 24 reviews
Bettei Soan is an excellent choice for travelers visiting Minamiaso-mura, offering a family-friendly environment alongside many helpful amenities designed to enhance your stay. As your “home away from home,” the onsen ryokan rooms offer air conditioning. Guests have access to shops and baggage storage while staying at Bettei Soan. In addition, Bettei Soan offers a sauna, which will help make your Minamiaso-mura trip additionally gratifying. And, as an added convenience, there is free parking available to guests. For those interested in checking out popular landmarks while visiting Minamiaso-mura, Bettei Soan is located a short distance from Isshingyo Park (2.0 mi) and Kannon Sakura (2.3 mi). While in Minamiaso-mura be sure to experience local yakiniku favorites at Akaushi No Yakata. During your visit, be sure to check out Spring Water in Myoken Shrine (0.6 mi), which is a popular attraction within walking distance of the onsen ryokan. Enjoy your stay in Minamiaso-mura!
One of the best hotels I have been to.
Reviewed By CookLightService was impeccable. This is a traditional Japanese style hotel (Ryokan), and we stayed in a separate house with private onsen bath room, living room and bedroom, as well as a small terrace. The room was excellent. Meals were sent to your room by friendly staff. Food was fantastic.
10. Hanare no Yado Hanagokoro
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 29 reviews
Maintained ryokan charm with tranquil and rustic setting
Reviewed By Ho AIt was already 4:45pm when we departed from Aso volcano driving straight away to Hanagokoro, it was really a bit late. All the way was dark and remote, it seemed no public transportation to reach this hotel. Driving maybe the only way. When we reached the destination it was 6:15pm. The atmosphere and surrounding is very quiet, a kind of tranquillity of countryside. Parking lot is available at the hotel. The hotel style is rustic, a way to maintain the ryokan charm. The receptionist told us dinner time is 7:00pm. restaurant will be closed at 8:00pm, no food will be served after 8pm. Shop and reception will be closed at 9:00pm. I think this policy is to maintain the tranquility. Guests must keep up with the time for check in and meal. The room was very spacious with private onsen (both indoor and outdoor) but must be cautious the water is very hot). Dinner and breakfast are very delicious. Regrettably we arrived the hotel a bit late that we miss the best time to watch the sunset while enjoying outdoor onsen bathing. I find the property has a certain rustic charm, the tranquillity give people a peace of mind. One thing which is worth to mention is pet is welcome, guest can bring their pet for stay in (only onsen bathing is not permitted for pet).
