ENOWA Yufuin

ENOWA Yufuin: An Exceptional Botanical Retreat with Two Michelin Keys

ENOWA Yufuin, a luxurious adults-only retreat nestled on a forested hillside overlooking the picturesque onsen town of Yufuin, has earned a coveted Two Michelin Keys distinction, signifying an exceptional stay. Guests consistently laud the property for its impeccable service, breathtaking design, and a unique farm-to-table dining experience, making it a sanctuary of nature, gastronomy, and well-being.

Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for ENOWA Yufuin is overwhelmingly positive, with an impressive average rating of 9.6/10 based on numerous guest reviews. Travelers describe their stays as "exceptional" and "unforgettable," highlighting a harmonious blend of modern luxury and natural beauty. The hotel's tranquil and serene atmosphere, coupled with its high standards of service and facilities, leaves a lasting impression on visitors.

Key Highlights

Guests consistently praise several standout features of ENOWA Yufuin:

• Exceptional Service: The staff receives stellar ratings (9.7/9.8), noted for being outstanding, friendly, thoughtful, and attentive.
• Stunning Design: The hotel boasts sleek, modern architecture that seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings, featuring vast windows, open-air spaces, and abundant indoor greenery. It's often described as having a contemporary, minimalist, and elegant aesthetic, akin to an art gallery.
• Private Onsen & Pools: A significant draw is the private open-air hot spring baths available in every guest room and villa, with some villas even featuring private pools.
• Farm-Driven Cuisine: The dining experience is a major highlight, with meals described as "masterpieces" comparable to Michelin-star establishments, rooted in a "farm-driven" philosophy.
• Relaxing Amenities: The property offers a spa, forest saunas with stunning views, and the Enowa-no-Yu bath infused with botanical treasures, enhancing the sense of well-being.
• Luxurious Transport: Guests appreciate the complimentary shuttle service from Yufuin Station, sometimes provided in a luxury car like a Bentley.

Room Quality

ENOWA Yufuin offers luxurious and spacious accommodations, including nine rooms, eight villas, and two pavilions, all generously proportioned. The rooms are characterized by their modern, stylish, and comfortable design, often likened to luxury apartments. A defining feature is the private, spring-fed onsen baths in every room and villa, allowing for ultimate relaxation amidst nature. Specific room types include Twin rooms (78㎡) with semi-open-air baths and lavish "Garden Side Villas" which come with private open-air baths and private pools with views of Mount Yufu. Attention to detail in interior design, amenities, and cleanliness is consistently impressive.

Dining Experience

The culinary journey at ENOWA Yufuin's restaurant, JIMGU, is a central part of the experience. Led by acclaimed Tibetan chef Tashi Gyamtso, an alumnus of renowned establishments like Blue Hill at Stone Barns and Noma, the cuisine adheres to a "farm-driven" philosophy, sourcing ultra-local ingredients from the hotel's own farm and the Kyushu region. Dinner is often described as a multi-course "extravaganza," beginning with an immersive tour of herbs and vegetables in the greenhouse. Dishes are lauded for being fresh, vibrant, creatively plated, and an artistic blend of creative French cuisine. Breakfast, typically American, also features fresh vegetables and organic eggs from the hotel's farm, with highlights such as turnip soup and organic egg omelets. The dining staff are bilingual in English and Japanese, providing thoughtful explanations of each dish, enriching the overall experience.

Service & Staff

The hospitality at ENOWA Yufuin is consistently rated as exceptional, with staff scores of 9.7/9.8. Guests frequently commend the staff for their outstanding, friendly, and attentive demeanor. Services include a 24-hour front desk, daily housekeeping, full-day security, and luggage storage. The free shuttle service from Yufuin Station, requiring advance reservation, is a welcome convenience that enhances the luxury experience.

Location & Accessibility

ENOWA Yufuin is strategically located on a hill, providing a tranquil escape at the edge of Yufu city and at the foot of Mount Yufu. The resort is surrounded by a cedar forest and boasts stunning natural beauty. While offering serenity away from the city buzz, it remains accessible, approximately a 5-minute drive from Yufuin Station. Popular local attractions like Kinrinko Lake (2.3 miles away) and Yufuin Trickart Meikyukan Museum (1.9 miles away) are within easy reach. Oita Airport is about 31 miles away.

Value & Pricing

Despite being a high-end luxury property, ENOWA Yufuin is generally considered to offer "excellent value for money" by guests, with a value for money rating of 9.3. While specific pricing varies, sample rates suggest a premium experience, with prices around ¥85,360 for two people per night. The comprehensive amenities, exceptional service, and unique dining experience justify the investment for many travelers seeking a luxurious and serene retreat.

Common Complaints

While overwhelmingly positive, some minor points of feedback have been noted:

• Age and Pet Restrictions: The hotel maintains an adults-only policy (18+ minimum age) and a strict no-pets policy, which may not suit all travelers, particularly families with younger teens or pet owners.
• Transportation Costs: Being 31 miles from Oita Airport and a bit removed from the city center, frequent city trips might incur additional transportation costs.
• Meal Portions: Some guests, particularly lighter eaters, have found the meal portions to be quite generous, making it challenging to finish every dish.
• Room Layout (Minor): A very specific complaint mentioned by one guest was a slight inconvenience with the flow from the shower booth to the bath on the terrace in a particular room type. Additionally, the lowest-grade rooms might not always offer the most enjoyable views.

Sources

1. michelin.com
2. relaischateaux.com
3. enowa-yufuin.jp
4. veronikasadventure.com
5. booking.com
6. ikyu.com
7. reddit.com
8. planetofhotels.com
9. tablethotels.com
10. jetro.go.jp
11. japantimes.co.jp
12. ikyu.com
13. 47trip.com