ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa by IHG

The onsen was so relaxing, one of the best parts of our trip. Everything else was incredible too, from the views and atmosphere to the food and service. The staff were warm and welcoming, and our room was beautiful and spotless. I loved every moment at ANA InterContinental Beppu. It’s one of the best hotels I’ve stayed at, and I can’t wait to come back.

We spent most of our stay enjoying the onsen, especially the outdoor baths, which were lovely in the cool April weather. The infinity pool looked beautiful, but it was too cold to really enjoy at that time of year. The setting on a Beppu hillside is peaceful, with breathtaking views of the mountains, sea, and town from the room and pool area. We arrived around noon, about a 1.5-hour drive from Fukuoka Airport, to celebrate my wife’s birthday. Everything went smoothly from the start. Parking was complimentary, our luggage was handled and delivered straight to the room, and the room was beautifully appointed. The bathroom also had a private spa tub for relaxing in privacy. Breakfast, tea time, and happy hour were all included and well done. We ate at the club lounge, where the dishes were prepared fresh on the spot, which made the experience feel personal and elevated. It felt like a king and queen’s retreat, luxurious, relaxing, and indulgent. It isn’t inexpensive, but for a special occasion or a restful Beppu getaway, it was worth it.

The walk to the Main Street was very dark at night, and I stumbled because the lighting wasn’t enough. The room was spacious and clean, and the onsen area was well maintained, but the service didn’t feel as friendly as I’d expected from an Intercontinental. We brought raw meat from the hotel we’d stayed at before, hoping to put it in instant noodles. A female staff member who’s usually in the front lobby seemed to suspect we’d cook it in the room. She kept asking how we planned to eat the raw beef, then warned that we’d be fined if we cooked and were caught. I felt uncomfortable being treated like a suspect, and thought her manner was proud and prejudiced. That isn’t the service I’d expect from a hotel like this. Breakfast was also far below my expectations. There was very little choice, and some plates were empty and hadn’t been refilled. For the service Beppu intercon generally provides, the price felt too high. I left disappointed.

The hotel is very close to Umi Jigoku, which made sightseeing convenient. It also offers pickup and drop-off if you email to confirm. The car only seats four, so if there aren’t enough seats, they arrange a taxi and cover the cost. The onsen was excellent, with a beautiful night view of Beppu. I’d go before dinner, around 6 to 7 pm, when it’s quiet and sometimes you can have the place to yourself. The room was clean and spacious, with a private onsen. The suite also comes with a free minibar stocked with all kinds of alcohol, including generous Regent selections. All the staff spoke English and were really friendly, and service was quick. I was especially surprised they even offered to cut fruit.