Overview

Welcome to Daimaru Besso, a tranquil ryokan where more than 150 years of tradition blend with comfort and thoughtful hospitality. Since its founding in 1865, this historic inn has welcomed visitors with warm service and a deep connection to the past. Located just south of Fukuoka City, Daimaru Besso offers the elegance of a ryokan combined with the ease of a hotel. From its soothing hot spring baths to its inventive cuisine, every detail helps you slow down, unwind, and appreciate the moment.

Accommodation

Daimaru Besso offers 41 rooms across three distinct wings—Taisho-tei, Heian-tei, and Showa-tei—along with a private annex called Rengyoan. Each building reflects the design sensibilities of the era in which it was built, giving you a unique way to experience traditional Japanese living.

Taisho-tei (Currently Closed): Built in 1918, this building featured rooms in eight different styles and access to private baths reserved only for Taisho-tei guests. The building’s classic wooden architecture and peaceful ambiance created a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.

Heian-tei: Built in 1989, these rooms offer a blend of privacy and comfort. Each spacious layout includes two Japanese rooms and a separate living room. Depending on the season, you’ll find tasteful decorations that reflect the natural world outside.

Showa-tei: Constructed in 1970, these rooms feature a relaxed, retro design with country-style sunken tables and soft lighting. These are ideal if you’re traveling solo or prefer a cozy space with classic charm.

Rengyoan: This private annex stands apart from the rest. The building was relocated to the grounds and carefully preserved, allowing you to enjoy a secluded retreat with historic charm.

All rooms are equipped with their own indoor baths. These are not hot spring baths, but they offer a relaxing way to end your day in private comfort.

Dining

Daimaru Besso’s cuisine centers on fresh seasonal ingredients and careful preparation. Month by month, the chefs develop new dishes to reflect the time of year, drawing inspiration from local flavors and classic techniques.

Dinner: Savor a multi-course meal crafted with creativity and attention to detail. Every dish is plated beautifully, allowing you to enjoy not just the taste, but also the artistry of Japanese cuisine.

Breakfast: Start your morning with a warm spread featuring specialties like dashi maki tamago (rolled omelet) and gently simmered tofu. The menu includes six side dishes that change monthly, focusing on healthy, vegetable-forward recipes.

You can enjoy your meal in a private dining room, available with different seating styles—sunken, chair, or floor. Let the staff know your preference when you book.

Onsen and Wellness

The onsen at Daimaru Besso flows from Futsukaichi Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot springs, with a history dating back more than 1,300 years. The Manyoshu, Japan’s oldest poetry anthology, even mentions these waters. The alkaline spring water leaves your skin feeling soft and your mind clear.

Main Bath (Suita-no-yu): The men’s and women’s baths are each over 330 square meters. Lined with stones and crystals, the large indoor space feels like a riverbed hidden in the forest. Wide windows open to the trees outside, making it easy to forget you’re in the city.

Private Baths (Taisho-tei Rooms Only): Guests staying in Taisho-tei can enjoy two exclusive baths—Suishin-no-yu and Ashi-no-yu. These spaces feature retro design and a subtle sulfur scent, giving you the experience of a true Japanese hot spring. The baths are open 24 hours.

In-Room Baths: Every room at Daimaru Besso includes its own private bath. These are not onsen baths but provide a relaxing way to wind down in privacy.

The onsen water helps relieve joint pain, nerve pain, digestive issues, burns, and skin conditions. Bath hours vary by season but typically run from early morning through late evening.

Guests with Tattoos

If you have tattoos, you may not be able to use the public baths. However, you can use the in-room bath or, if staying in Taisho-tei, the private onsen baths. Contact the staff in advance for details or assistance.

Facilities

Daimaru Besso includes a range of facilities designed to help you relax and enjoy your stay:

• Private Dining Rooms: Enjoy your meals in a quiet space tailored to your preferences.
• Ginnotsubo Japanese Restaurant: A dedicated dining venue where the flavors of the season come alive.
• Tsukinoniwa Beauty Salon: Unwind with a treatment or beauty service during your stay.
• Garden and Courtyard: Watch the seasons change from the comfort of a traditional Japanese garden.
• Banquet and Meeting Rooms: Host weddings, formal gatherings, or business events in elegant, well-appointed spaces.

Activities

You can host weddings or engagement ceremonies in beautifully prepared rooms that reflect the dignity of traditional Japanese culture. If you’re planning a meeting or party, the staff will help arrange spaces suited for both small gatherings and larger groups.

Take time to explore the area around Daimaru Besso. Located just 16 kilometers from Fukuoka City and 8 kilometers from the airport, you’re close to the city, yet far enough to enjoy the peace of a true retreat.

Additional Features

• Private onsen access for select rooms
• Inventive seasonal menus served in private dining rooms
• Rooms that reflect architectural styles from different eras
• In-room baths in all accommodations
• Natural spring water with centuries-old healing properties
• Convenient location just outside Fukuoka City