Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Kurokawa Onsen is a representative hot spring resort located in Minamioguni Town, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture. Characterized by a charming landscape of wooden inns quietly spread out in mountain valleys, cobblestone alleys, and open-air baths that blend into the natural surroundings, the area has been developed into a hot spring town dotted with inns since the Showa era. The entire town is working to preserve its "landscape," and the colors of signs and buildings are consistent, so you can enjoy a sophisticated atmosphere while still retaining the charm of an old-fashioned hot spring town.
The main attraction is "open-air bath tours (yu-meguri)." There are open-air baths scattered around with a variety of spring qualities and steam, and the popular feature is the ability to use a yu-meguri pass to visit multiple inns and public baths. The rustic open-air baths, blending in with the changing nature of the seasons (fresh greenery, cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, snowy scenery), will help you forget the hustle and bustle of the city.
Highlights
- Yumeguri (Yumeguri Tegata) — A popular experience that allows you to use multiple open-air baths at inns and public baths. Be sure to check in advance how to use the pass and which facilities are eligible.
- Stroll through the charming hot spring town - Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the cobblestone streets, wooden signs, quaint bridges, and foot bath spots.
- Open-air baths - There are many mixed-gender open-air baths that blend into nature, as well as separate open-air baths for men and women, and the quality of the water and the scenery vary from inn to inn.
- Footbaths and public baths — Enjoy the hot springs in a casual footbath or an inexpensive public bath.
- Nearby nature walks – Enjoy mountain views, streams, and short hikes to nearby waterfalls (such as Nabegataki Falls).
- Local cuisine - local cuisine, dishes using local ingredients, hot spring eggs, etc. The kaiseki cuisine at inns is also appealing.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- By car: Approximately 90-120 minutes from Kumamoto City, and approximately 140-180 minutes from Fukuoka City (Tenjin/Hakata) (depending on traffic conditions). There are sections that involve mountain roads via national and prefectural roads, so chains or studless tires may be required in winter.
- Expressway buses and local buses: Depending on the season, there may be express buses or direct buses bound for Kurokawa Onsen from Hakata, Tenjin, Kumamoto, and Oita. If there are no direct buses, you will need to transfer to a bus at the nearest major station. Please check the latest timetables and operating status in advance.
- Train + Bus: Take the train to the nearest major station (e.g., Aso Station on the JR Toyohashi Main Line, or a station on the JR Kyudai Main Line heading towards Hita), then take a local bus or taxi from the station. Since connections and the number of buses are limited, we recommend checking the timetable and planning your trip with ample time.
- Local transportation: The roads in the hot spring town are narrow and parking is limited, so it is common to use a shuttle service provided by your accommodation or to use a municipal parking lot and explore the area on foot.
*The above is a guideline. Transportation operations and travel times may vary depending on the season and day of the week, so we recommend checking in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip: A half-day to full-day trip (morning or afternoon plan) that includes a stroll around the hot spring town and visiting one or two hot springs.
- Accommodation: A two-day, one-night stay is highly recommended, as it allows you to enjoy the hot spring atmosphere in the evenings, the tranquility in the mornings, and the multiple open-air baths at your leisure. If you want to fully enjoy the hot springs, staying at least one night is ideal.
- Relaxed stay: Staying for two nights or more will make the most of your stay by combining it with sightseeing in the surrounding area (Nabegataki Falls, driving towards Aso and the Yamanami Highway).
Nearby spots
- Nabegataki Falls - A waterfall that can be accessed by car, the view from behind the falls is popular (it can get crowded depending on the season).
- Aso Grassland Area — Within an hour's drive, you'll find tourist spots surrounded by magnificent nature, such as the Aso Caldera and Kusasenri.
- Yamanami Highway (towards the Kuju Mountains) — The scenery is beautiful on the drive, and there are also lookout spots and roadside stations along the way to enjoy.
- Nearby areas of Oguni Town and Yufuin — If you travel by car, you can also combine a visit to famous hot springs in Beppu and Yufuin.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: Weekends and consecutive holidays (Golden Week, Obon, autumn foliage viewing season, New Year's holidays) are particularly crowded. Make reservations early for accommodations and popular facilities.
- Onsen etiquette: Please observe basic etiquette, such as pouring water over yourself and washing your body in the washing area before bathing, not submerging towels in the water, and refraining from taking photos in the changing room.
- Tattoos: Some inns and public baths may restrict bathing for people with tattoos. Please check the accommodation or facility's policy in advance, or bring tattoo stickers to cover them.
- Rules for using the Yu Meguri Tegata: The facilities that can be used with the Tegata are limited, and there may be usage times and conditions. Please check the applicable facilities and terms of use before purchasing.
- Access by car/Winter precautions: As this is a mountainous area, there is a risk of frozen roads and snow accumulation in winter. If visiting in winter, be sure to bring studless tires and chains, and check the latest weather information.
- Preservation of the natural environment: Please be mindful of the rules for preserving the landscape of the hot spring town, take your trash with you, and avoid smoking and using fire outside of designated areas.
Finally, Kurokawa Onsen is a hot spring resort that can only be enjoyed if you stay overnight. We recommend planning your trip with ample time to escape from everyday life, relax in the hot springs, and enjoy the atmosphere of the town and the surrounding nature. Please check the official website or your accommodation in advance for the latest business and transportation information.
