Designed by Kengo Kuma, Hoshino Resorts KAI Yufuin is a lavish hot springs retreat set in the midst of terraced rice fields, with volcanic Mount Yufu looming in the background. The property is picture-perfect at all times of the year; snow covers the surrounding peaks in the winter, while deer roam the fields in the warmer months.
Fodor's Travel, January 2025The best way to soak up the landscape is in the restorative, steaming waters of the outdoor onsen, where every sunlight angle falling across the rice fields and the surrounding mountains can be appreciated.
Travel + Leisure, June 2023Fodor’s Finest 2025
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Hotels Own Introduction
A Tranquil Retreat Amidst Mt. Yufu and Rice Fields
Nestled between the majestic Mt. Yufu and a picturesque landscape of terraced rice fields, this serene hot spring ryokan offers a peaceful escape in harmony with nature’s seasonal rhythms. The ever-changing countryside, shaped by the harvest cycle, provides a stunning backdrop for relaxation and renewal.
Soak in the Healing Waters of Yufuin Hot Springs
Guests can unwind in open-air baths filled with the soft, mineral-rich waters of Yufuin Hot Springs, all while taking in sweeping views of the sky and Mt. Yufu. The ryokan’s design mirrors a traditional farmhouse, featuring a long structure with a spacious wraparound veranda—an inviting space to sit back and admire the surrounding rice fields.
Flavors of the Geothermal Landscape
Dining at the ryokan celebrates the bounty of the land, with dinners featuring locally sourced game meat and deeply flavorful vegetables grown in this fertile geothermal region, known for its abundance of natural hot springs.
KAI Signature Rooms: A Celebration of Local Culture
For an immersive experience, KAI Signature Rooms showcase unique regional craftsmanship. The Firefly Room is a standout, featuring a stunning light fixture woven from rare shichitoi straw. Embedded with delicate, flickering lights, it beautifully evokes the magical glow of fireflies dancing near the water in early summer.