Ryokan Yuri

Ryokan Yuri gave us what we needed at a reasonable price, with a traditional atmosphere and without the extra frills of pricier hotels. The staff were friendly and efficient, and the manager (or owner?) made everyone feel like family. Communication in English was good. The location is handy, within easy walking distance of the train and bus stations but away from the crowds. It faces the river, green banks, and cherry trees, and every room looks toward the river and mountains. The dining room has the same view. Our tatami room was clean, had good air conditioning and heating, and windows we could open or close. Breakfast was tasty and healthy, with a traditional spread of small dishes, hot soup, and gohan rice. Dinner isn't included, though Yufuin has lots of restaurants. There are no showers or baths in the rooms, so bathing means using the hotel's natural onsen. Our room did have its own toilet and wash basin. The basin had no hot water, but that was fine since there are plenty of wash stations at the hotel bath. A real hidden gem for the price.

We loved the view from our room at Ryokan Yuri, about a 10-minute walk from Yufuin station. Kirin Lake is around 15 minutes away on foot, and the scenery along the way made the walk feel quick. The onsen is private, with time slots you book when you arrive. It was clean and well looked after. Breakfast was good, and the staff were very welcoming.

It's an easy walk from Yufuin eki, and the staff are friendly. The host is chatty and speaks English. Breakfast is provided, but dinner isn't available on the spot, so check before you arrive. The private outdoor O-sen fits about 3-4 people. You might see some spider webs since it's outside, but they didn't get in the way of enjoying the O-sen.

For a one-night stay in Yufuin without meals, I'd recommend Yuri. Our room had a toilet and a view of Yufu-mountain, and we could use the private hot springs twice, once in the evening and again the next morning. We tried the smallest one with a Yufu-mountain view, as well as the biggest. It's about a 10-minute walk to the Yufu JR/bus station, and the shopping streets are all within walking distance. Thanks to the host uncle and aunties, cheers.