Originally Posted by
Bristom
We visited Kyushu mid November, and based on reviews here we stayed at Myoken Ishiharaso (Suou), Takachiho Shinsen (Hourai), Takefue (Shienan), Gekkoujyu (Izayoi), Bettei Itsuki (Karin) and Fufu Nara (standard).
We travelled with our 15 month old toddler and each of these allow children, unlike most ryokans. They even provide stuff for kids like yukata, utensils, meals, chairs and even gifts.
And generally people in Japan were always smiling at out baby and interacted with her in parks, restaurants and public transport.
(As a side note, we could not really enjoy and relax because our daughter was very active and curious and we had to focus on her all the time.)
Gekkoujyu and Shinsen were my favourites and I would love to return to both. I also liked Fufu Nara, so my personal preference probably leans more to modern properties and not towards the traditional charm.
Stayed 1 night everywhere, which is not enough but I wanted to test them to know where I would like to return in the future.
Will post short descriptions with some photos separately.
Awesome write-up and photos! Looks like it was an amazing trip. On top of that, you were there to see some killer Fall foliage and the eruption of Sakurajima. Wow.
We were also just in Kyushu, but it seems we were there a week later than you - we missed the peak of the eruption, for instance.
Your impressions make it abundantly clear that everyone has different desires and priorities, meaning no one ryokan is perfect for everyone. Glad that you were able to get a really good sampling of some of the top ryokans, which will only help you narrow down future visits based on your tastes.
We love Kyushu, and especially during the Autumn leaves season. It turns out it's typically during the U.S. Thankgiving break, which works out nicely for us on an annual basis. We've already booked (or planning to book, in the case of the first two properties) a trip for late Nov. 2026 where we'll pay a visit to Kamenoi Besso, Gekkoju Yufuin, Takachiho Ryokan Shinsen and Neiroganotoki Nemunohana.