Uncover Hidden Bettei Haruki: Beppu's Best-Kept Secret!
Uncover Hidden Bettei Haruki: Beppu, You Beautiful, Secret Beast! (A Review That's More Therapy Session Than Travel Guide)
Okay, buckle up, buttercups. I just got back from Bettei Haruki in Beppu, Japan. And let me tell you, trying to write a review feels like trying to wrangle a particularly excited octopus while also trying to remember where I put my socks. Seriously, this place… this place messed with me. In a good way. Mostly. Okay, let’s jump in, before my brain short-circuits from trying to be organized.
Metadata/SEO Stuff (Gotta please the Google Gods, right?):
- Keywords: Bettei Haruki, Beppu, Japan, Onsen, Ryokan, Luxury Hotel, Hot Springs, Spa, Beppu Onsen, Wheelchair Accessible, Family Friendly, Japanese Cuisine, Pool with View, Spa/Sauna, Anti-Viral Cleaning, COVID-Safe Travel, Resort, Hotel Review
- Meta Description: Honest and heartfelt review of Bettei Haruki, a hidden luxury ryokan in Beppu, Japan. Discover its stunning hot springs, impeccable service, and unique charm. Find out if it lives up to the hype! Plus all the gritty details you NEED to know!
(Deep Breath. Here. We. Go.)
First off, the name "Uncover Hidden Bettei Haruki: Beppu's Best-Kept Secret!"? Totally accurate. Seriously, I felt like I was in on something major. Like, "I know the secret handshake" kind of major. Finding it was a little adventure in itself, tucked away… well, actually, I don't even know where it was tucked away. The airport transfer (a bonus!) whisked me away, and the next thing I knew, BAM! Gorgeousness.
Accessibility:
Alright, so I'm not personally using a wheelchair, but I'm always keen to see how hotels handle access. And Bettei Haruki, surprisingly, did a decent job! Wheelchair accessible aspects were definitely present – elevators, accessible rooms, though of course, navigating a traditional Japanese ryokan is always going to have its little quirks because of the unique design. It wasn't a perfectly smooth ride, but they were clearly trying, and that counts for a lot. The facilities for disabled guests are definitely present and noted, and I could tell they were making a conscious effort - kudos for that!
On-site Accessible Restaurants/Lounges: I didn't specifically test this, but the primary restaurant seemed easily navigable.
Internet & Techie Stuff (Because we live in the future):
- Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! YES! Praise the internet gods! Strong signal too! Necessary to share all the insta-worthy pics, obviously :D
- Internet: Fine. It's there. It works. I'm not going to write a sonnet about it, but it did its job.
- Internet [LAN]: Never touched it.
- Internet Services: Basically, a good, solid internet connection.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax (Oh, the Bliss!)
- Pool with View: The outdoor swimming pool? Oh. My. God. It was magical! Infinity pool (that's always a winner), overlooking… I honestly can't remember the what because I was lost in a haze of relaxation. (That's a good thing, right?) Picture postcard stunning. I think I spent two hours just staring at the view. Pure bliss.
- Swimming Pool [outdoor]: See above. Pure, unadulterated joy.
- Sauna, Spa, Spa/Sauna, Steamroom: Okay, so this is where I went FULL-ON RELAXATION MODE. The sauna was hot. HOT! Perfect for sweating out all the travel stress and questionable life choices. The spa massages were heavenly. Truly, utterly, heavenly. I may or may not have drooled. Multiple times. No regrets. The steamroom was a welcome change of pace – a little gentler, bit of a different experience to the sauna, and perfect for easing into the evening relaxation.
- Gym/fitness: Lol. Nope. Not even tempted. My workout was walking from the onsen to the restaurant. And back. And then back!
- Foot bath: A nice little extra, although I didn't get around to trying it (too busy in the pool).
- Massage, Body scrub, Body wrap: My therapist was a wizard. The body scrub left my skin feeling like silk! The body wrap, even better! I was so relaxed that I pretty much floated back to my room. Worth every single yen.
- Things To Do: I mean, you can venture out but honestly – why? The hotel has enough to distract you from the "real" world.
Cleanliness & Safety (Because, you know, the world is weird right now):
This whole COVID thing has everyone on edge. I was pleasantly surprised.
- Anti-viral cleaning products: Check.
- Daily disinfection in common areas: Check.
- Hand sanitizer: Everywhere.
- Hygiene certification: Yep. They seemed to be taking it seriously.
- Individually-wrapped food options: Yes, which provided peace of mind, even if it meant a few extra packets of soy sauce on my table.
- Physical distancing of at least 1 meter: Pretty well enforced.
- Professional-grade sanitizing services: Seemed so.
- Room sanitization opt-out available: Never needed it!
- Rooms sanitized between stays: Good.
- Safe dining setup: Yes, and it all felt very safe.
- Sanitized kitchen and tableware items: Assured
- Staff trained in safety protocol: Definitely. The staff seemed genuinely concerned for your well-being, not just going through the motions.
- Sterilizing equipment: Probably. I didn't see it, but I trust they were doing their job.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking (Food glorious food!)
- Restaurants: There were multiple, different restaurants. Each was a journey in itself.
- Asian cuisine in restaurant: Absolutely. It's Japan. Delicious, innovative, beautiful presentation.
- Western cuisine in restaurant: Yes, for the times you crave something familiar.
- Breakfast [buffet]: The breakfast buffet? Another level. Everything was so beautiful and well-curated. This included a wide array of local specialties, but also the more standard offerings to get you going.
- Breakfast service, Breakfast in room, Breakfast takeaway service: Options – which are always welcomed! This allows for the complete freedom.
- A la carte in restaurant: Yes, of course. A menu to choose from, a la carte, full of delicious options.
- Buffet in restaurant: The buffet options were plentiful, which meant you could try everything!
- Coffee/tea in restaurant, Coffee shop: The coffee was decent. The tea was amazing. I basically lived on matcha for three days.
- Desserts in restaurant: Don't even get me started on the desserts. Japanese desserts are like little pieces of edible art.
- Happy hour: Didn't partake, because… pool time.
- International cuisine in restaurant: Yes, there were bits and pieces of international influence, but generally, it was all Japanese.
- Poolside bar: Yes, and it's essential. Sipping cocktails by the pool? Living the dream.
- Room service [24-hour]: Yes. Because sometimes you just need a midnight snack in your robe.
- Salad in restaurant: Good. (Gotta get those greens in.)
- Snack bar: Yes, great for a quick bite or a between-meal nibble.
- Soup in restaurant: (Miso soup, ramen, etc.): DELICIOUS.
- Vegetarian restaurant: There was a vegetarian menu
- Bar: Yes. Cocktails, sake, you name it. (I highly recommend the sake.)
- Bottle of water: Free water provided in the room!
- Dining, drinking, and snacking: Incredible options, food, drink and snack-wise.
(Here's a real-life anecdote and a random, quirky observation to shake things up:)
Okay, so here's a funny thing that happened. I was in the sauna, feeling all zen, when this old Japanese gentleman walks in. We exchange a polite nod, and then he just… starts singing. Loudly. In Japanese. I had NO idea what he was saying, but he was clearly having the time of his life. It was surreal, hilarious, and incredibly Japanese. And somehow, it added to the magic of the place. It's the little things, you know?
Services and Conveniences (The Perks!)
- Air conditioning in public area, Air conditioning: Essential!
- Audio-visual equipment for special events: Yes, if you need it.
- **Business facilities, Meeting/banquet facilities, Business facilities, Meetings,
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because this itinerary is less a meticulously planned Swiss watch and more a slightly-dented, well-loved hiking boot. We’re wandering into Bettei Haruki, Beppu, Japan, and trust me, it's going to be a ride. Buckle up.
(Day 1: Arrival and the Great Onsen Awakening)
14:00 - Arrive at Kokura, Transfer to Beppu: Okay, getting off the Shinkansen was not the graceful exit I'd envisioned. Picture this: me, flustered, wrestling with a suitcase the size of a small car, nearly decapitating a bewildered elderly Japanese gentleman with the handle. Humbling start, folks. But hey, we made it! Next up, the transfer. Google Maps said it would take about 1 hour 30 minutes for getting from Kokura to Beppu. Oh, how I wish I know Japanese better.
16:00 - Check-in at Bettei Haruki: This is, hands-down, the most beautiful hotel I've ever seen. Seriously. Google pics don't even begin to do it justice. That minimalist chic aesthetic that I secretly crave but can never achieve in my own life? They’ve nailed it. The welcome drink, some kind of chilled plum concoction, was divine. My inner peace, for a brief, shining moment, felt attainable.
17:00 - Onsen Orientation & First Dip: The hotel staff kindly gave me an orientation of the onsen. Honestly speaking, the thought of bathing in public was already giving me the sweats. The onsen at Bettei Haruki… Pure. Bliss. Okay, I'm not going to lie, stripping down in front of a bunch of (mostly) unclothed strangers… yeah, still slightly mortifying. But once I was in the water? Magic. It's like all the knots in my shoulders – the product of a lifetime of carrying the weight of the world and an overpacked carry-on – just… dissolved. I emerged feeling like a newly hatched butterfly, albeit one that smelled faintly of sulphur.
18:30 - Dinner at the Hotel Restaurant: The meal itself was an art form, a parade of tiny, meticulously crafted dishes. The tuna sashimi practically melted in my mouth. The presentation was so gorgeous. Unfortunately, I spilled soup all over my lap. So now I didn't feel so pretty anymore.
20:00 - Stargazing from My Own Private Bath: So, here’s the thing. Each room at Bettei Haruki has its own private outdoor onsen. Genius, right? I spent an hour soaking under the stars, feeling like a pampered goddess. The only downside? I got a mosquito bite. On my… well, let’s just say it was an unfortunate location. Damn bug.
(Day 2: Hell Valley and the Art of Failing Gracefully)
09:00 - Breakfast: Now, I'm a simple girl. I like eggs, toast, maybe some bacon if I'm feeling fancy. But this breakfast? A symphony of tiny bowls filled with… things. Fish eggs. Pickled vegetables that looked suspiciously like something I’d avoid in my fridge at home. I bravely tried everything. Let's just say my taste buds are still recovering. I don't know how the Japanese do it!
10:00 - "Hells" of Beppu (Jigoku Meguri): Okay, the "Hells" are these geothermal hot springs that are seriously impressive – like, "nature is showing off" impressive. We started with the Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell), vibrant blue water, and then the Oniishibozu Jigoku (Devil Mountain Hell), where the mud bubbles like a simmering cauldron. But here’s the truth: I was so busy trying to take Instagram-worthy photos that I nearly tripped into one. Fashion over function, people!
12:00 - Lunch at a Local Soba Restaurant: Found this tiny place off the beaten path. The noodles were incredible, and the owner, a wizened old woman with a twinkle in her eye, didn't even bat an eyelid when I spilled half my soy sauce on the table. (It's becoming a theme, I'm afraid).
14:00 - My First Unsuccessful Onsen Egg Attempt: Okay, so you can buy eggs and boil them to make Onsen eggs in a hot spring. I really thought I'd succeed. But turns out, I failed. I ended up with rubbery eggs. It was a humbling experience… I ate them anyway.
16:00 - Onsen Recovery & Reading Time. I went back to the onsen for some much needed relaxation. Afterwards, I spent some time reading in a tatami area to recharge.
19:00 - Dinner at the Hotel - Another amazing meal. This time I didn't spill as much.
21:00- Last Onsen Dip: I took one last dip, feeling as though I was going to miss this place.
(Day 3: Farewell, Bettei, and Back to Reality)
09:00 - Farewell Breakfast: Managed to eat breakfast without a single major mishap. Success!
10:00 - Check Out & Souvenir Shopping: Buying souvenirs is a dangerous game for me. I tend to get carried away. I bought way too many cute little trinkets, including a ridiculously adorable ceramic cat that’s now cluttering my already-cluttered apartment. Oh well.
11:00 - Travel back to Kokura and transfer to the next destination.. I managed to stay dry this time.
12:00 - Arrival Home: Okay, well, I feel like I may need another vacation to recover from this one, but Bettei Haruki? If you have a chance, GO. You will not regret it. And if you do spill soup on yourself… well, at least you weren’t alone.
See you on the next adventure!
Sochi Hostel 21: Bamboo Bliss in Russia's Riviera!
Uncover Hidden Bettei Haruki: The Slightly-Less-Secret Secret of Beppu (According to Me!)
Okay, Seriously, Is This "Hidden Bettei Haruki" REALLY as Amazing as Everyone Says? Because I'm Susceptible to Hype.
Alright, alright, let's cut the crap. Amazing? Yes. Utterly, ridiculously, almost offensively amazing? Also yes. Look, I've seen a few ryokans in my day. I've had my fair share of fancy dinners and soaking experiences that cost more than my rent. But Haruki… Haruki is different. It's like… well, imagine your coolest, most chill friend just magically built a super-luxe, ridiculously comfortable, and incredibly beautiful private villa just for you. That's kinda the vibe.
But here's the thing: even I went in with a healthy dose of cynicism. "Hidden gem," "Best-kept secret" - it's all marketing fluff, right? Wrong. The anticipation was actually messing my head up before and during the trip. I felt so much pressure to "enjoy it" that I was fighting to even appreciate it at first. I think I was just nervous about wasting my money!
The first step into my room? Yeah, pure and utter gasp. It wasn't staged; it felt… real. It felt like a sanctuary. I'll get into it deeper later, but trust me, it's not just the views (though the views are enough to make you weak in the knees).
What's the Deal with the Onsen? Are They Truly "Private"? Because I'm Shy.
Oh, the onsen. This is where Haruki truly shines. And yes, they are, gloriously, wonderfully, *utterly* private. Each suite has its own outdoor bath, usually with a breathtaking view. I'm talking 'staring at the stars while simultaneously washing away all the stress of modern existence' level private. Think about THAT.
There's no awkward shuffling in with strangers, no worrying about exposing yourself accidentally. It's just you, the steaming water, and the peace of mind. You can be as shy as a scared rabbit, and still feel like you own the world (and the onsen).
I spent, I kid you not, an embarrassingly long time just *staring* at my onsen before I got in. I was just… overflown with pure appreciation. Because I spent the first 20 years of my life in a small town in Wyoming, and this was the exact opposite of everything I was ever familiar with.
The Food! Tell Me About the Food! I'm a Greedy Glutton.
Okay, buckle up, buttercup, because the food at Haruki is… a culinary experience. Think art, but you get to EAT it. Each meal is a multi-course affair, featuring seasonal ingredients that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.
I was SO worried about the portions, because I have a seriously voracious appetite (don't judge!). But the chefs are geniuses! The presentation is immaculate, but there's a true substance to the food here, a real heart. The amount of food was just right, honestly. And I found myself savoring every bite, even the tiny, delicate things, just because it was all so damned good. Then... I felt guilty. It's like a constant internal battle of complete joy and then, pure shame.
I'm still dreaming about the sashimi. Seriously, I'm not even kidding. It was melt-in-your-mouth perfection, so fresh, it was practically swimming. And the dessert… don't even get me started. Let's just say I embarrassed myself by nearly licking the plate clean. Maybe I did lick it. Shhh... Don't tell anybody.
But Is It *Expensive* Expensive? My Wallet Is Crying Already.
Let's not sugarcoat it: Haruki is an investment. It's not cheap. However, I'm going to argue it is absolutely worth it. You're not just paying for a room; you're paying for an experience that you will reminisce on. It's a splurge and probably a once-in-a-lifetime type splurge. It is not something for the faint of financial heart.
Here's how I justified it: I saved up, I cut back on other luxuries, and I treated it as a reward for myself. It was my birthday trip and I wasn't going to ruin it by thinking about the money. And honestly? After experiencing the level of luxury and service, I felt like I had spent a steal, for what I got. I left feeling more refreshed, relaxed, and recharged than I had in YEARS. The memories? They are priceless.
Would I go back? In a heartbeat. As soon as I can scrape together the funds, I will. And that, my friends, is the true test of a good experience, right? The willingness to go broke for it.
Are There Any Downsides? (Be Honest!)
Okay, fine, I'll be honest. There were a couple of minor, nit-picky things. The Wi-Fi, while available, wasn't lightning fast (but, honestly, who cares? You're supposed to be unplugging!). And the sheer level of service can be a little… much, at first. I'm used to more hands-off experiences. I felt like I was constantly being pampered. But I figured I just had to roll with it, and now I miss it.
And the worst part? Leaving. Seriously. The moment you check out, you're thrown back into the real world, and it can be a tough landing. I actually sat in the taxi for a good 10 minutes just staring at Haruki, thinking "Am I just dreaming?". I think I'm still recovering, honestly. Maybe I *am* still dreaming.
What's the Staff Like? Are They Super Fussy?
The staff are pure, unadulterated, amazing. They're incredibly attentive, but not in a way that feels intrusive. They anticipate your needs before you even realize you have them. It's a level of service that's truly remarkable. They make you feel like a guest and not a burden.
I had a minor issue with the air conditioning (it was a *little* too chilly for my liking), and within minutes, they had it perfectly adjusted. They were genuinely friendly and genuinely cared about making sure that I was enjoying my stay. Also, most of them spoke at least some English, which was a huge relief for a language-challenged person like myself. They were friendly, helpful, and unobtrusive, which is exactly what you want from your staff.
