ANA InterContinental BEPPU RESORT & SPA by IHG

After reading other reviews, they were all overwhelmingly positive. Having stayed in numerous hotels, the ANA InterContinental Beppu definitely ranks in my top three. First, let's talk about transportation: Beppu Station is quite small. Remember to exit from the West Exit (this was told to us by the hotel shuttle driver; apparently, many international guests wait for a long time at the East Exit only to find out it's the West Exit). The hotel is about a twenty-minute drive away. Next, the service: What was really surprising is that more than half of the hotel staff are non-Japanese. Every single foreign staff member spoke excellent Japanese, with perfect mastery of honorifics. Finally, the room facilities: The onsen (hot spring bath) is small but beautiful. The infinity pool isn't very deep, making it suitable for children. It was still a bit chilly in March, but luckily, there's a warm pool nearby where you can soak for a while. The restaurant offers great value for money. Children aged 6-12 get half price, which is around 2,700 yen. In the evening, there's an all-you-can-drink option for adults at 5,000 yen, including sparkling wine, house wine, shochu, and beer.

The room was great, but the location is super remote – be prepared for a very quiet, almost deserted area. You'll need taxis to get around. Breakfast was really mediocre, and the hot springs were just okay, definitely not worth the price.

This is an excellent hotel. It's nestled on a mountain overlooking the ocean, offering beautiful scenery. The hot springs are fantastic, and they even have private baths available for an extra charge. Dinner was superb; we had Japanese cuisine in an elegant setting. The Japanese chef was very professional, and the dishes were outstanding. Breakfast was semi-buffet style and also delicious. The rooms are spacious, well-equipped, very clean, and offer sea views.

A premium hot spring hotel that offers excellent value for its price and class, boasting a magnificent setting. Secluded, it occupies its own private hilltop. Guests can enjoy hot spring baths or outdoor swimming, all while taking in panoramic views of Beppu. The rooms are excellently equipped and feature private balconies. Breakfast is also quite refined, offering both buffet and à la carte options.

The hotel is located on a mountain, and the shuttle service to Beppu Station ends at 5 PM. Other than that, everything else was great. The bathroom was huge, and the hot springs were definitely the highlight, with very few people around.