Perched above Beppu, Japan's undisputed hot spring capital, the sleek ANA Intercontinental was the first international luxury hotel to open in the region and it makes the most of its extraordinary setting. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame astonishing views of the bay, as well as the city's famous steam plumes and surrounding mountains. With beautifully designed onsen fed by Beppu's mineral-rich waters, a French-inspired chef's counter restaurant and local artisan touches woven throughout, this is a seriously polished base from which to explore Kyushu's geothermal heartland.
All 89 rooms are generously sized with enormous windows, private terraces and a calming palette of natural materials. Thoughtful local details make the difference – think handcrafted bamboo bath baskets, artisan-made yukata and wooden geta slippers from nearby Hita. The suites are where things get really interesting, however: Junior Suites come with private onsen baths on the terrace, while the 145-square-metre Panorama Suite offers a 270-degree view of the bay and mountains from its own open-air tub. For families, connecting rooms are available across several suite categories.
Soaking in naturally heated myoban waters while gazing out over Beppu Bay is about as close to total contentment as you can get.
The two public onsen switch between men and women daily, each with a totally different design. Stay two nights and you'll get to experience both.
The hilltop location is gorgeous but it does mean you're a good 20 minutes from central Beppu. There's a free shuttle, but you do need to book in advance.
ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Japan trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Japan trips featuring ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa or get advice and suggestions from one of our Japan specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa start from around $520, or US$520, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
Welcome to Japan's gloriously unpolished onsen capital where steam billows from every alleyway and meals are prepared in volcanic vents.
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