Yufuin Ryokan Yamanami

We booked the Annex, which gave us the whole unit and a private onsen on site, so this is just about that booking. It felt like we got what was advertised: a traditional ryokan, where you're close to the ground much of the time. The onsen was especially nice in the cold weather. Breakfast was decent. You tell the proprietor what time you'll eat, then go to the main building, so you'll be out in the cold briefly on the way. Parking is free, but the ryokan is quite a way from the main shopping street. I don't think this is a place non-drivers need to consider.

The staff's warmth and thoughtfulness made the stay at Ryokan Yamanami feel special. They handled every detail attentively, and we felt cared for and at home. Manager Mika deserves a special thank you for her constant support, genuine kindness, and warm presence. She went out of her way to help with anything we needed, and we hope to return. We had a room with a private onsen, which let us relax at our own pace in the hot spring, surrounded by nature and quiet. The peaceful atmosphere, beautiful onsen, and delicious traditional meals made it an unforgettable stay and one of our most cherished travel memories. We'd wholeheartedly recommend Ryokan Yamanami.

The ryokan was very clean, and every staff member we met was friendly and attentive. We thoroughly enjoyed staying in such a beautiful place and setting.

The main drawback was getting there on foot. With no footpaths, I had to haul my luggage uphill along bumpy roads beside the drains. I'd suggest taking a taxi if you're not driving. Once there, the staff were helpful and spoke English. The limited number of rooms meant I never had to wait for the shared showers or bathrooms, which were usually empty when I used them. There are seven(?) rooms, plus three men's and three women's pools, so I could usually enjoy the onsen privately. Yukata and haori in the room were a nice touch, though I was the only one wearing them at breakfast. The view of the towering mountains was wonderful, especially when waking up to it.