ARC INN Matsumi

The one reason for my three stars is the lukewarm water, around 36-37 degrees Celsius. The receptionist honestly tells you the temperature before you pay, and if that suits you, it may be worth a visit. Entry is ¥300, paid at reception, where you can also get an onsen stamp. There’s parking, shampoos are supplied, and you need to bring a towel. The clean bath is large enough for eight people and can be switched to a jet bath. The women’s onsen is on the ground floor and the men’s on the first floor, or second as it’s counted in Japan. Lockers are at reception, so your clothes aren’t visible while bathing.

A decent business hotel with helpful staff and good hot springs. The location is convenient too, about three minutes from Beppu Station. It had all the amenities I needed except Wi-Fi.

Parking is only 500 yen, and the station is close by. I found it an easy hotel to use.

After eight nights here on a business trip, I don’t plan to stay again. The TV was old and small, and the bathroom smelled bad. The water was lukewarm, too. I had the Eco Plan, which meant no cleaning. It said cleaning could be arranged every three days if needed, but there was a fee. I finished work early and wanted to cancel my parking spot, but same-day cancellations weren’t allowed. I guess the price was fair.