Galleria Midobaru

The staff were so kind and helpful, and the room service food was tasty. It was nice to have that option because we mostly wanted to relax in our room. The room was huge and well equipped, and every room has its own bath with a view. The building is stunning. We spent about an hour walking around and taking photos. The view over Beppu and the sea was fantastic, and it was relaxing to watch it change at sunset. The balcony also had a great sunrise view if you get up early. This might be my favorite place I’ve ever stayed. It’s excellent value, and I’d come back in a heartbeat.

Breakfast was worth adding, with fresh bread, salads, and coffee, and we also tried both the course dinner and the à la carte dinner. Both were amazing. The staff made the stay even better. A young man helped us at check-in, though sadly we never learned his name. Wakana was especially patient and kind when helping us check out. Her English is wonderful. I only wish my Japanese were further along so I could have told her how much we enjoyed ourselves. Our room at Galleria Midobaru was spacious and beautifully designed, with everything we needed. The private onsen opened onto an ultra-private balcony with an incredible view of Beppu city. Every room has one of these baths and a city view. The hotel is also just a short 10-minute walk from another lovely onsen we visited. It was peaceful, luxurious, and one of the most relaxing places we’ve stayed. A highlight of our Beppu trip, and I highly recommend Galleria Midobaru.

The location is a little outside the main part of town, so going out can be challenging, though it’s fine if you don’t plan to leave much. They offer food for certain limited hours, but it’s more like room service without delivery to the room, so I’m not sure what the point is. The food itself is pretty good. I’m still giving it five stars because the hotel is amazing, the rooms are great, the staff are friendly and helpful, and staying there feels like being inside a giant work of art.

The breakfast was lovely, though I wish we could have ordered at least two items since some portions weren’t very big. There was an issue with my reservation, but after some discussion they finally sorted it out, which I appreciate. The lobby felt like a fancy art gallery, with great views and great service.