Daimaru Besso

This Hotel offers far more than a long history—its building, atmosphere, Rooms, dining, Onsen, and service are all maintained to an exceptionally high standard, making it a wonderfully relaxing place to stay. Although it was pouring rain outside and the weather was hot and humid, the indoor climate control—including in the Rooms—was kept at a very comfortable level, so we enjoyed a stress-free stay. Modern luxury Hotels are great too, but this stay helped us rediscover the unique charm of a renowned Ryokan.

Although it is located along a main road, once you step inside, it feels like another world. You are enveloped in greenery and tranquility that still preserve the atmosphere of its founding 160 years ago. With a spacious Japanese garden and wooded grounds, I was genuinely surprised that such a nature-rich space remains in such a convenient location from central Fukuoka City. The large public bath is spacious, with free-flowing water from the source continuously overflowing. Freshly drawn spring water carries a pleasant sulfur aroma. Through the wide windows, you can enjoy forest bathing. There is no open-air bath, but it still felt wonderfully open and relaxing. The meals were truly satisfying: refined dishes that are gentle on both body and mind, made with locally sourced seasonal ingredients from across Kyushu. The portions were just right. The tableware was also exceptional—you could feel how carefully high-quality pieces have been cherished and used over many years. We stayed in Heiantei, and the Room features an interior corridor layout that maintains privacy between each space (two Japanese-style rooms and one salon), making it comfortable even for multiple families traveling together. We were only two people, but it was more than spacious enough for us. The staff’s division of roles was thorough; each person clearly carried themselves as a professional in their position, and you could sense their pride in working at this renowned Ryokan. The service was flawless. Maintaining this level of quality must be incredibly demanding, but I sincerely hope they will continue to protect this precious historic Onsen Accommodation and pass it on to the future generations to come. It’s also extremely close—just 15 minutes by train from central Fukuoka City—so convenience is outstanding as well. Having stayed at countless Ryokan and Hotels, I can recommend this place with complete confidence.