Sanso Murata

The three of us (including Mrs. KI-NRT and her mother) spent the final 2 nights of our Kyushu sojourn at in Yufuin, and through extensive research we settled on Sanso Murata, which appeared to be the most unique and luxurious ryokan in the area. We also chose two rooms that were adjacent to one another - "Sou" and "Hou," due not just for their proximity, but because their design aesthetic was most appealing to us (choose carefully, because each of the 12 rooms have their own unique characteristics, and because guests staying there have the option of having dinner served in their rooms. They appeared to be the most modern and Western in decor and furnishings compared to some of the other rooms, which were more traditional Japanese in look and feel. The property sits up on a small hill above Yufuin's main area (about a 5 minute drive away), which is a plus or minus, depending on what you're looking for. Given that we had our own vehicle and parking space in Yufuin is rather abundant, we felt that it was worth staying in a secluded spot when we weren't out on the town. The ryokan itself is surrounded by various galleries and a few cafes, although it was in a very sleepy part of Yufuin and was devoid of many tourists. This included several that were owned and/or operated by Sanso Murata itself, including Allegro and a Soba noodle restaurant, both that are within a short walking distance from the ryokan entrance. Both the property grounds as well as the immediate vicinity is not particularly picturesque. It's a serene and calming place, but it's neither immaculately manicured nor does it have much character. Rather than exuding luxury in an awe-inspiring way, Sanso Murata makes up for it in its indoor charms. It's neither traditional Japanese nor is it ultra modern, but somewhere in between. However, it does not feel outdated, because it's well maintained and the decor is more by design than a function of its age. Both the "Hou" and "Sou" rooms were generously proportioned (155m² and 130m², respectively), and were Maisonette-style, with the bedroom (with two Western style beds as well as one of the two toilets) on the upper floor and the Western living/dining room, a separate Japanese tatami room and the main bathroom, shower room and Onsen bath all on the ground floor. It was tastefully decorated, and with the option to spend time in either the Japanese or Western living rooms, it offers something for everyone's tastes. The Western living room furnishings don't scream "high end," but was functional and more than served its purpose. The Onsen (natural hot springs) bath in the room is of the semi open-air variety in that it's technically indoors, but you can slide open the glass doors if you choose to be exposed (somewhat) to the elements. This was a nice option to have, because it was relatively warm when we were there, so it was good have a a breeze flow in from the outside while enjoying the Onsen. So far, so... decent, right? The key to Sanso

I finally get the chance to stay in Sansou Murata with my mother once the pandemic has been treated as endemic. I book again this time for a few accommodations that I stayed in my 2019 trip, only Sansou murata recognized me, by my name & contact info, who have only visited the place once. It’s truly impressive since not all hotels, ryokan or restaurants can achieve the same, no matter how expensive they are. We were, again, warmly welcomed by Mr Shiotani at check-in. He speaks perfect English and is helpful in accommodating guests’ every need. I chose the room“ Hou” which is a 2-story semi-detached house ( shared the same location with “Sou”). The house is connected to the main building with covered pathway. It’s just a couple of steps from tan’s bar, the front desk and the restaurant, Saryou Saihido. The room was spacious with 155 sq.m. and well-maintained. However, the changing room was a tad dated and small with just a single sink, which is lackluster as compared with the one in “Higashi” which I stayed last time, though I like the semi-open bath of Hou more. Needless to say, staffs serving our room were as usual hospitable and attentive. I loved the atmosphere of tan’s bar so I went to have p-roll and caramel ice-cream there before dinner. Service and food quality were impeccable. Dinner was served in-room and was literally cooked in the locked kitchen attached to the house. I really like this arrangement as it makes no difference from dining in the restaurant. It was an enjoyable meal. Breakfast was served in a separate room of the restaurant, table & chairs not sunken Kotatsu, which was great for elderlies. Western breakfast was not available this time and many facilities such as the Theo tea room and art museum were closed on weekdays, guess the pandemic has really hit the business hard. I stayed in 4 ryokans during this trip and at least three of them were top-tiered. My mother liked Sansou Murata the most. She couldn’t identify the exact reasons but one thing for sure, sansou-Murata was the only facility that served without any hiccups during our trip. To me, everything was fine except that the 2nd floor (where the bedroom and 2nd toilet were located ) was kind of creepy and spooky to me. It’s dark even when all the lights were turned on and I just didn’t like going upstairs, personal problem, I must admit. Anyway as long as my mother likes it, purpose is served. After check-out, as planned, we went to the souvenir shop for some shopping and then walked down to Fusho-an for lunch. Table was reserved, the same delicious soba and great service. After lunch, we just had to notify the servers, a taxi loaded with my luggage was there in a few minutes to take us to the Yufuin station. Seamless and hassle-free, kudos to the team of Sansou Murata. I won’t hesitate in returning should I plan to visit Yufuin again.