GGuest UserImpeccable Service
From the moment we arrived, the hospitality at Takenokura Sansou was exceptional. The receptionist came out to the car park to welcome us personally and escorted us to the reception office. He and his colleague then helped unload our luggage and thoughtfully delivered everything to our room.
The warmth extended well beyond the front desk. As we walked through the dining hall en route to our room, even the chef greeted us with a smile, which immediately made us feel genuinely welcomed.
The staff took the time to explain all the room amenities in detail, including how to adjust the temperature of the private outdoor onsen. At the dining hall, the service team was consistently friendly and approachable, despite my limited Japanese. They served us with patience and sincerity—even when my son happily requested four servings of their heavenly dinner rolls.
Upon checkout, the team came out again to bid us farewell. This was, without question, the best service we experienced throughout our 18-day journey across Kyushu.
Facilities
While some aspects of the room décor and appliances are dated, everything was immaculately clean. As someone particularly fussy about bedding, I can confidently say that Takenokura Sansou offers the best futon I have experienced since I began traveling to Japan in 1999. The quilt was fluffy and soft, while the futon was firm yet incredibly comfortable. I honestly wanted to stay longer just for the sleep.
The private outdoor onsen was the highlight of our stay. The small garden was beautifully arranged, creating a serene and intimate atmosphere. The water temperature could be easily adjusted, and soaking while gazing up at the sky was pure enjoyment.
The room layout was clearly well thought out, with the shower located just before the outdoor onsen and a door to keep out the cold—allowing you to warm up comfortably before stepping outside into the winter air. A small heater near the porch area by the toilet would be a welcome addition to make late-night visits more comfortable, but this is a very minor suggestion.
Dining
This was probably the best dinner we had during our time in Kyushu. Takenokura Sansou surprised us with a beautifully executed fusion-style, course-by-course kaiseki meal. Combined with cocktails and warm interactions with the charming and friendly oba-chan service staff, the entire dining experience embodied what I love most about Japan: excellent food, heartfelt service, and meticulous attention to detail.
One moment stood out in particular. When my son asked—in English—whether he could have a fourth serving of the dinner roll, the chef unexpectedly emerged from the open kitchen and personally served him a freshly toasted roll with soft butter. We were genuinely delighted and deeply touched by this thoughtful gesture.
Conclusion
Everything about our stay at Takenokura Sansou was exceptional. My only regret is booking just one night. I will most certainly return if I visit the Mount Aso area again.
Well done, Takenokura Sansou—you truly deserve this praise.
GGuest UserThere are private rooms and dormitories.
The kitchen and bathroom are all very clean, so if you're feeling a bit overwhelmed by ryokans,
I highly recommend this place.
I had a wonderful, relaxing time, boss.
The horse meat was truly amazing! ㅜㅠ!
Next time, I'll bring a friend, and I'll treat you to some delicious Korean food. Definitely!!
Stay healthy! It was so much fun.
JJK02Good location : 3 mins walk from aso station. The room was clean. Shampoo, conditioner and body wash are provided but towel can be rent for 100 yen. You can see nice view of mountain from room.
AAnonymous UserIt was an old-fashioned inn, and the bath was also wide 々.
There are no latest facilities or fashionable amenities.
I think the inn is kind and clean
Breakfast is no problem if you go once at a convenience store
It was worth it.
GGuest UserThe place was spotless and our room had two twin beds, a kitchenette, and the toilet space was modern and sparkling. What made this the best was its location on a little beach surrounded by mountains. Lots of parking for the cars (you have to drive there as it is remote) and the proprieters went above and beyond to give us a map of the area in English with notes telling us where cherry blossoms were blooming at that time and other things. Every day when we returned to the room there was a basket by the door with refreshed supplies. Our room had everything you needed to cook as well as a little table. You have to bring food from Amakusa City as there is no place to shop nearby but once you are there it is totally worth it. There is also plenty of picnic table style seating on the front patio of the rest house. We did not use them but they had stand-up paddleboards, snorkle gear, etc. The sound of the waves and lots of places to hike nearby were amazing.
HHeng Chi AaranIt’s a good private house.
But I’m won’t recommend if weather is cold or raining, or if you’re traveling with young kids.
I travelled with my family with two toddlers.
The bath and onsen are outdoors, not quite well lit and not well covered.
The hot water water pressure is low, and the water is either very hot or very cold.
It was a cold, raining and windy that night.
It was a horrible experience for us because of the above, and the kids had a lot of trouble taking a bath. And we were worried they might catch a cold.
And strangely the door lock of the bath is locked from the outside and not from the inside.
Also remember to buy food before entering.
We bought ours and cooked our own dinner.
Otherwise, it’s a good private house, probably best for adults.
GGuest UserOur recent stay at a charming guesthouse felt like stepping into the pages of a fairytale. The entire house exuded simplicity and warmth, reminiscent of a storybook setting. The gracious host welcomed us with genuine enthusiasm, even though our grasp of Japanese was limited. Despite the language barrier, we thoroughly enjoyed our conversations.
The highlight of our stay was undoubtedly the sumptuous dinner. We were almost too full to continue after indulging in the feast. The homemade hamburger steak, lovingly prepared by the host, was exceptionally delicious. If you’re seeking a heartwarming experience in Aso, I highly recommend giving this guesthouse a try.
GGuest UserThe hotel room was very spacious and clean. Our room faced the east and just next to the sea, so we could watch the sunset with sea view; it was very beautiful!
There are men & women salt baths available for guests on the ground floor. There are ample car parking lots.
Had breakfast just next to the sea! The spread was quite good with salad, rice, few local dishes, fish, soup, natto, etc. Dinner set meals with fish/sashimi were really fresh and delicious.
We had a peaceful and happy stay. Staff were friendly, attentive and warm too. I was surprised to receive a souvenir when I check out!
GGuest UserThis is a great place to stay if you want to be in a peaceful and quiet location. It is in the village with not much disturbances. The owner is very helpful and try to answer your questions about bus and train services in the area. You can find some local restaurants nearby using your Google map. The restaurants are close around 3 to 4 pm most days. The closing hours for the restaurants are not accurate. This is a small town; if they don’t have costumers after a certain hours in the evening, they will be closed. Be mindful about that and come prepared with snacks and food!
LLisaSpWe had a wonderful stay at the Power Spot Campsite. The owner was super friendly and helpfull. He helped us with all of our questions and gave us some great recommandations.
We arrived on a rainy day with our bicycles and were so happy about the cozy tiny wooden house and a warm shower. We had an amazing view of the mountains and the shrine and it was even possible to make a campfire infront of the little house. It is a magical place. Also there are many cute and friendly cats. We would defenetly visit again!