Staying At An Affordable Ryokan In Beppu – Manrikiya Inn And Ryokan
Staying at a ryokan is probably one of the most sought-after experiences when traveling to Japan, and with good reason, as it’s the ideal place to relax, enjoy a delicious meal, and take advantage of the many services offered.
But here’s the thing: while the experience can be truly unique, it can also be very expensive, as there are often more luxury option than budget ones, especially in cities famous for their onsen, like Beppu.
Don’t worry though because I’ve got the perfect address if you’re looking to take your first steps into the world of ryokans and make the most of your stay without breaking the bank. Without further ado, let me introduce you to Manrikiya Inn and Ryokan in Kannawa, Beppu.
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What is a ryokan?
A ryokan is a Japanese-style inn typically found around hot spring towns and mountain resorts. Rooms are often furnished with tatami mats, and guests can enjoy communal or private baths as well as experience Japanese hospitality and culture.
Ryokans are often seen as places to relax and recharge, offering a respite from the stresses of life.
Today, ryokans range from traditional establishments to luxury hotels offering unparalleled views of nature and fine cuisine.
Why stay at Manrikiya Inn and Ryokan?
While it may not be the most luxurious ryokan in Beppu, Manrikiya Inn and Ryokan offers everything you need for your first ryokan experience.
You’ll enjoy all the basic amenities and delicious meals at a very affordable price in one of the most famous onsen towns in Japan. The service is top-notch, and you truly get your money’s worth (and then some).
If you’d like to read a more detailed review of my stay, keep scrolling!
Location
Located in Kannawa, which is pretty much the heart of the hot spring area, where steam rises from the ground and can be seen everywhere you look on the street, Manrikiya Inn and Ryokan is, in fact, perfectly located.
Even though the inn is right in the heart of Kannawa, and close to several attractions easily accessible on foot, you won’t feel like you’re surrounded by crowds thanks to its location on a quiet, secluded street.
Which is the perfect compromise when you don’t have a car but still want to enjoy a restful stay.
Vibe
Even though it doesn’t offer breathaking views of nature or a more remote location, a stay at Manrikiya Inn and Ryokan doesn’t lack in peace and quiet.
The inn, though it has only five rooms, which is, in fact, perfect since you won’t have to fight for access to the private onsen or worry about being disturbed while you recharge your batteries, is steeped in a serene atmosphere that will make you wonder if you’re actually the only guest.
And after nearly two weeks of traveling across Kyushu Island, this was one of the most restful stays I had. The kind that makes you want to change your plans and extend your stay by one night (even though that was impossible, as the ryokan was fully booked several weeks in advance).
What are the rooms like?
All rooms are furnished in the same style: tatami mats on the floor, futon bed, and other amenities designed to make your stay more comfortable.
They’re all located in the same beautiful wooden building and are spacious enough to accommodate guests.
I personally stayed in the single room, which has the same amenities as the larger rooms, except for the additional wooden area and the separate bedroom.
You’ll also get some chiran tea to brew yourself and a yukata, along with instructions on how to wear it correctly.
Overall, the room was cozy, comfortable, and perfect for a relaxing stay.
Notes: toilet is shared for the single room, and the owner will make your bed while you’re out (“I feel like a princess” kind of vibes).
Food and Special Amenities
Do you know what else is great about a stay in a ryokan besides the relaxation and the onsen? The food!
Because every ryokan stay is usually accompanied by a breakfast or dinner option or both. And even if this often comes at an extra cost, the experience is well worth it.
A traditional, delicious, multi-course meals, prepared with fresh and local ingredients, await you.
As I had already had my fill of great food, I chose only the breakfast option, but honestly, after eating the full range of delicacies on offer, I actually wish I had saved a little room for dinner.
The breakfast, for its part, was delicious, beautifully presented, and plentiful. It features all the traditional dishes you’d expect: miso soup, omelet, rice, and much more.
They’ve even set partition screens between you and other guests so you can enjoy your meal in peace.
Note: when you check-in, you’ll be asked what time you’d like breakfast served; then you simply have to head to the dining room to enjoy your meal.
Onsen
Onsen or hot springs are one of the main (if not the main) reasons people visit Beppu. So it goes without saying that relaxing in a hot, steaming bath will be on your to-do list when you’re in Beppu.
And while onsen are usually communal, the most relaxing experience is probably having your own private onsen to unwind and cure your aching, tired body.
Wash up first, then plunge into the 100°C water and enjoy a peaceful, and healing time all by yourself.
Manrikiya Inn and Ryokan offers two private onsen that you can book: an open-air bath and a cypress bath. You can book two time slots: one in the morning and one in the afternoon/evening. Morning baths are limited to 30 minutes, while you’ll have 50 minutes in the evening.
Note: you can book your onsen during check-in. This service is, of course, included in the price of your room.
⁎ Pro tip: if you have long hair, please tie it up in a bun and leave the onsen as clean as you found it.
Service
The owners are very friendly and attentive; they’ll take great care of you without intruding on your privacy.
Everything is designed to make you feel right at home, and you’ll truly appreciate their hospitality as well as the attention to every detail that goes into making your stay an amazing and unforgettable experience.
Everything is also well explained, and you’ll be charmed the moment you step through the doors of this lovely traditional inn!
The little extras
- Gift: upon check-in, you can choose a pair of tabi socks in your favorite color (you know, the socks with the split toe) → a small but touching and meaningful gesture.
- Parking: if you’re coming by car, you’ll be happy to know that there’s free parking right next to the inn.
Things to do in Beppu
As I mentioned earlier, Beppu is known for its hot springs, but there’s actually plenty to do if you decide to stay for more than one night!
- Jigoku Meguri (or Hells of Beppu): one of the most popular attractions in Beppu. With seven in total, this is the ideal stop to see hot springs with surreal colors, and beautiful gardens. If you only have time to visit one, I highly recommend Umi Jigoku, with its turquoise waters.
- Kannawa Onsen Mushiyu: to release all the toxins from your body and experience a herbal steam bath.
- Yukemuri Observation Deck: to see the city and the steam rising from all the onsen from above.
- Matogahama Beach/Park: a quiet place to take a stroll and enjoy Beppu Bay.
- Mount Tsurumi: a hike with breathtaking views of Beppu (you can also take the ropeway).
In conclusion
My first ryokan experience really won me over, and I didn’t feel like I’d been ripped off or anything, which is especially nice when you’re already going beyond your budget for an experience you don’t have every day.
Manrikiya Inn and Ryokan was exactly what I was looking for in a simple, budget-friendly stay, and even exceeded my expectations in some ways.
So, if you’re not looking for a luxury stay, but would rather discover a beautiful traditional inn where every corner has been carefully thought out and where the beauty lies in the details and the service, Manrikiya Inn and Ryokan is the perfect choice for you!
Address: Beppu, 風呂本６組
How to get there: from Beppu station, take bus 5, 7, 24, or 41
Contact: 0977-66-1372
Prices: from $68 to $173 on Booking.com
Official website
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