Hello readers!
I am Chuchu. I am a student writer!
I would like to introduce you to Ryochiku Bettei; a hot spring hotel with a modern atmosphere in Beppu.
Beppu is a city of tiled roofs, rising steam and historic hot spring resorts! Doesn’t this sound like the travel destination of your dreams ? Of course, soaking in an onsen to soothe your body and mind is a major attraction of Beppu, but there are a number of other highlights that we will share with you!
Due to its numerous and diverse hot springs (different colored water, sizes and ways to use), Beppu has earned the reputation as a”hot spring paradise”. Many loyal tourists keep coming back as there are just so many unique onsen experiences here!!
Ryochiku Bettei is located about ten minutes from Beppu station by car and its modern appearance is reminiscent of a luxury hotel in Tokyo. The quality of the hot springs and the panoramic view of Beppu Bay made me feel the true character of Beppu. Let’s take a look!
Photo provided by Ryochiku Bettei
Reception
The spacious hotel lobby has a relaxing atmosphere with the scent of flowers and friendly staff. The front desk is partitioned due to the COVID-19. All employees wear masks so that you can safely enjoy your stay.
I always think that the process of getting into a hot spring is very important. It is fine to just take a quick bath, but I personally believe that if the walk to the bathtub and the atmosphere are nice, you will feel even better when you get in the bath. In that sense, the elegant Ryochiku Bettei atmosphere, both inside and outside the hotel, gave me a feeling of being “warmly welcomed”. And as a result, I couldn’t wait to experience their hot springs.
First, let’s take a look at the indoor baths, which are the same style for both men and women.
Indoor Bath
When you enter the onsen, you first notice the reddish-brown colored flooring reflecting the beautiful view of the surrounding nature outside the large windows. The baths are designed in a simple style so the focus remains on having a relaxing bath. It is recommended to start here and let your body get used to the hot spring before going to the open-air bath!
Photo provided by Ryochiku Bettei
Rock Open-Air Bath for Men
Next, it is time to go to the “rock open-air bath”. This bath is for men only. The first thing that catches your eye is the stone wall and the trees that grow along the slope surrounding the bathhouse. The space in front of the semicircular bathtub gives a spacious impression. The breeziness of the bathtub makes quite a pleasant place to take a bath during the daytime sun. A visit amongst the autumn leaves or fresh snowfall is also a very elegant onsen experience. The bathtub reflects the surrounding trees, and The hot spring water is 100% natural and pure. The mighty and grateful rocks and peaceful scenery will feel refreshed.
Photo provided by Ryochiku Bettei
Wooden Open-Air Bath for Women
Next is the “Hinoki open-air bath”. This bath is for women only. It has a very different feel and design than the “Rock open-air bath” which seems to spring out of nature. This “Hinoki open-air bath” is made of hinoki cypress that has been carefully carved out by craftsmen and makes you feel elegant even as you enter.
Photo provided by Ryochiku Bettei
The natural smell of the hot spring water and the gentle aroma of the hinoki cypress mixed with the steam is a natural aromatherapy. The temperature is just right and you can feel your entire body slip into the comfort of the Ryochiku Bettei.
Private Bath
Finally, we headed to the private bath that we had reserved. On the way, we passed through a spacious and beautiful courtyard. It felt like an adventure as we walked through the courtyard and were very excited to experience the baths in a private setting.
You can borrow sandals at the entrance, so please try them on. You will be able to enjoy the bath while practicing a tradition of Japanese culture.
Zori: Ancient Japanese footwear made of woven grass.
The private hot spring is surrounded by large round rocks that remind you of these onsens’ lengthy history. There is little space other than the bathtub. The room also has a very calm atmosphere with a deep black as its base color. The space provides a sense of security like a personal getaway and the humidity of the steam in the room makes a calm fall over you. The baths are semi-open-air, with a roof over the baths and the natural beauty of Beppu spread out before you. It felt a little bit like resting in a cave. And above all, it is truly a private bath, so you can enjoy it by yourself or with your family or friends without worrying about being seen.
Photo provided by Ryochiku Bettei
How was the Ryochiku Bettei?
The idea that all these onsens have in common is that they are “true art.” Not only the attention to detail in hot spring water, but also the view from the hot spring baths are beautiful and meditative. I was on a day-trip plan this time, so I did not experience the guest rooms or the cuisine. But after experiencing Ryochiku Bettei’s attentive service and professionalism, I could not help but want to stay overnight the next time. I look forward to enjoying the food and drinks as well. I recommend you stay at Ryochiku Bettei for an enjoyable and memorable experience in your beautiful Beppu journey.
Basic Info
OPEN：12:00~15:00
FEE：500 yen per person for a public bath, 1100yen for private bathroom for 50 minutes
