Surrounded by forest, tranquil Yamashinobu features public and private hot spring baths, an astronomical observatory and a piano. Some Japanese-style accommodations boast a private open-air hot spring bath. Free Wi-Fi and a choice of colorful free-use yukata robes are available. Guests at Yamashinobu can unwind in an outdoor or indoor public hot spring bath, or reserve a hot spring for private use. The hotel has a library, a souvenir shop and drinks vending machines. Massages can be arranged. Air-conditioned accommodations feature a tatami (woven-straw) floor, a low table with seating cushions and traditional futon bedding. Amenities include an LCD TV, a fridge and a safe. Some units have a shared bathroom and toilet. Yamashinobu offers a Japanese breakfast and a traditional multi-course kaiseki dinner. Both are served at the dining room. After dinner, guests are welcome to enjoy local sake wine or tea free of charge at the property’s traditional hearth. The Japanese-style spa hotel is a 10-minute drive from Mangan-ji Temple and a 40-minute drive from Aso-Kuju National Park. JR Aso Station is a 40-minute bus drive, and the hotel can pick up guests from Kurokawa Onsen bus stop free of charge, at advance reservation.