Kurokawa Onsen: A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Kyushu
Kurokawa Onsen is a small Onsen-gai (hot spring town ) tucked away in a remote area beyond Aso in Kumamoto Prefecture, Kyushu, with just 30 Onsen Ryokans (hot spring inns). Until the 1980s, it was not widely known across Japan. The town’s charm lies in its harmonious and cohesive atmosphere, a characteristic of small-scale onsen towns. Kurokawa Onsen was developed with the concept of viewing the entire town, its Onsen Ryokans, and its surrounding mountain scenery as one unified “inn.”
Today, the town offers unique features such as the “Nyuto Tegata”, a regional currency that allows guests to enjoy baths at various Onsen Ryokans regardless of where they stay. Services such as luggage transfer between Onsen Ryokans for guests staying multiple nights ensure a seamless experience, making it feel as though all the Onsen Ryokans in the area are part of a single, interconnected establishment. Balancing traditional charm with a modern touch, Kurokawa Onsen has become a beloved destination, attracting visitors not only from across Japan but from around the world.
Enjoying Kurokawa Onsen
Nyuto Tegata (Bath-Hopping Pass)
The Nyuto Tegata, a regional currency exclusive to Kurokawa Onsen (¥1,500 per pass for adults ), allows visitors to choose three open-air baths from the many Onsen Ryokans in the town. Guests can also purchase multiple passes to visit all the baths. Additionally, the pass can be used for dining or shopping for souvenirs. While most onsen towns restrict bath access to those at your accommodation or public baths, Kurokawa Onsen enables you to enjoy a variety of baths at different Onsen Ryokans.
Since each inn features different spring qualities, you can plan your visits to suit your needs—perhaps a soothing bath to relieve travel fatigue on the first day and a skin-rejuvenating soak on the second.
Inn-Hopping (Tenpaku)
For guests staying two or more nights, Kurokawa Onsen provides services to make transitioning between Onsen Ryokans smooth and hassle-free. These services include luggage transfer and sharing guest preferences (such as dietary restrictions or language support) between Onsen Ryokans.
Examples of how to enjoy this include:
- Staying in the town center on the first night and moving to a quieter, more remote area on the second.
- Exploring Onsen Ryokans with different spring qualities.
- Trying Onsen Ryokans that offer contrasting meal styles or opting for different room types—such as traditional tatami rooms one night and a Western-style bed the next.
Kurokawa Onsen “Yuakari” (Illuminated Hot Spring Festival)
This event, held annually from late December to the end of March, features enchanting lantern-style lighting installations throughout the town. During this period, Japanese-style food stalls also appear, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Hot Spring Qualities in Kurokawa Onsen
Kurokawa Onsen is home to 7 of the 10 main types of hot spring water, with each inn offering its own unique spring quality. This diversity is rare, providing guests the opportunity to compare and enjoy different spring properties by either staying at multiple Onsen Ryokans or using the Nyuto Tegata pass.
Accommodations in Kurokawa Onsen
Hozantei
Set on an expansive property of about 16,000 square meters, Hozantei offers 10 detached guest rooms, each equipped with a private open-air and indoor bath. All baths use 100% natural hot spring water. The spacious layout ensures privacy and tranquility, and guests can choose between traditional Japanese-style rooms and those with Western-style beds.
Address: 1180 Higashiokokurokawa, Minamioguni-machi, Aso-gun, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan 869-2402
https://www.kurokawaonsen.or.jp/eng_new/oyado/syosai.php?intYKey=18
Ikoi Ryokan
Ikoi Ryokan preserves the charm of a traditional Japanese farmhouse, complete with a thatched roof, sturdy wooden beams, and a sunken hearth. Rooms range from traditional Japanese-style rooms to maisonette-style detached accommodations. The ryokan offers 13 different types of baths, including a unique standing bath with a depth of 1.5 meters. Conversations around the irori hearth with fellow travelers add a delightful social touch.
Address: Kawabata-dori, Kurokawa Onsen, Minamioguni-machi, Aso-gun, Kumamoto Prefecture,Japan 869-2402
https://www.kurokawaonsen.or.jp/eng_new/oyado/syosai.php?intYKey=1
Oyado Noshiyu
The name “Noshiyu” reflects the inn’s philosophy of offering cherished guests the gift of hot springs. This charming inn features 11 unique rooms, including loft-style accommodations and detached rooms with private baths. Seasonal kaiseki cuisine, prepared with fresh ingredients sourced from Kyushu, is a highlight.
Address: 6591-1 Manganji, Minamioguni-machi, Aso-gun, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan 869-2402
https://www.kurokawaonsen.or.jp/eng_new/oyado/syosai.php?intYKey=14
Sato-no-Yu Waraku
This intimate Onsen Ryokan caters to couples and adult guests, with all rooms designed for two people. Each room includes a private open-air bath with natural hot spring water. Guests can enjoy quiet evenings in the bar lounge or soak in the lush green or cave-style baths, perfect for a romantic getaway.
Address: 6351-1 Manganji, Minamioguni-machi, Aso-gun, Kumamoto Prefecture,Japan 869-2402
https://www.satonoyu-waraku.jp/
Hanamadori
For travelers who prefer flexibility, Hanamadori offers lodging-only plans with mini kitchens. Ideal for vegans, vegetarians, or those who prefer to cook their own meals or dine out. For guests seeking traditional dining experiences, creative kaiseki meals are also available.
Address: 6564-1 Manganji, Minamioguni-machi, Aso-gun, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan 869-2402
https://www.kurokawaonsen.or.jp/eng_new/oyado/syosai.php?intYKey=25
Things to Note in Kurokawa Onsen
In Japan, public baths and hot springs were historically mixed-gender, with men and women bathing together in the same facilities. Nowadays, most onsen (hot springs) and public baths are segregated by gender. However, in Kyushu, where Kurokawa Onsen is located, mixed-gender baths are still relatively common.
At onsen inns, in addition to separate baths for men and women, you may also find mixed-gender open-air baths (rotenburo). While these baths offer a unique and traditional experience, it’s important to note that wearing swimsuits in mixed-gender onsen is generally prohibited in Japan. If you have concerns about bathing in a mixed-gender setting, it’s recommended to thoroughly research your chosen facility in advance to ensure a comfortable experience.
Access Information
For detailed access information to Kurokawa Onsen from various locations in Japan, visit the official website:
https://www.kurokawaonsen.or.jp/eng_new/access/
