2024 Minamioguni Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in November)

Kyushu, Japan - A Highland Onsen Hotel Overlooking Mount Aso: Senomoto Highland Hotel.

During a self-drive trip in Kyushu, we stayed at an onsen hotel called Senomoto Highland Hotel. Although it is within the area of Kurokawa Onsen, the hotel is situated on the more remote and desolate Senomoto Highland, offering a view of Mount Aso and a sense of vast, serene beauty that feels worlds apart. The resort-style grand entrance and the lobby with its floor-to-ceiling windows allow guests to gaze directly at the highland scenery. If you visit in April, you can even witness the spectacular sight of the evening 'burning mountain'! A standard double room including breakfast is priced at about 6,000 to 7,000 yen, which is not cheap. Also, it's not easily accessible without a car. However, unlike the hotels in the Kurokawa Onsen area, you can experience the wilderness of the highlands, which feels very un-Japanese. The hotel's facilities are quite new and the design is simple. There are two onsen bathhouses; one is indoors, where you can soak in the hot spring while looking out at the highland through the large windows. The other is an open-air onsen, which after passing through the outdoor garden, presents a steaming outdoor pool. Here, you can enjoy the cool breeze, the hot springs, and the view of Mount Aso, all while being surrounded by nature. At night, the sky is filled with stars, creating a beautiful scene. Senomoto Highland Hotel Address: 5644 Manganji, Minamioguni, Aso District, Kumamoto 869-2402 Japan

I went to Kurokawa Onsen in June in the summer. When I came here, it was all green maple leaves, very lush. Heikawa Onsen has many hot springs in many homes. Basically, it is full of houses every day, so be sure to book a room in advance if you want to come to the hot springs. Otherwise, you will come here to make a reservation. If you are, it is very likely to be sleeping on the streets. The price of Kurokawa Onsen is about 1000-2500. It usually includes the first day of dinner and the next day's breakfast. The meal is very rich. There are two open-air hot springs in Kurokawa, three different types of family soups, and of course hot springs for tourists who are not. Guests can choose any hot spring bath for any length of time. Two of the open-air hot spring soups are exchanged in the morning and evening. That is to say, tonight I have a big open-air hot spring soup that is a female soup, so I can go to the small open-air hot spring soup in the morning to be a female soup. In order not to miss the experience of each soup, I chose Xiaoyu Yusi for 4 days! ! ! In the evening, make a soup of open-air soup, and another morning soup and family soup. Hahahahahahahahahahaha Family soup to make an appointment with the front desk in advance, will help to stay in the room~ The point to note here is that Japanese hot springs are bare soup, so there is no tattoo. Oh, small areas of tattoos can be covered with towels or other coverings, but large areas may not be able to use public soup and can only choose to be in the family soup or in their own room~

黑川溫泉

Kurokawa Onsen, located in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, is a picturesque hot spring village known for its serene atmosphere and traditional ryokan (inns). A short trip to Kurokawa Onsen can be a rejuvenating experience, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature. Upon arrival, visitors can explore the charming streets lined with wooden buildings and lush greenery. The area is famous for its outdoor baths, or "rotenburo," which allow guests to soak in natural hot springs while surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Many ryokan offer day-use options for their baths, making it accessible for those not staying overnight. A popular activity is to purchase a "yumeguri" pass, which grants access to multiple onsen facilities throughout the village. This allows visitors to experience different types of baths, each with unique mineral compositions and scenic views. #黑川溫泉 #一泊二食

Mountain Warm Springs - Tranquil Moments at Kurokawa Onsen

Traveling to Kurokawa Onsen in Kyushu, Japan, you are surrounded by green mountains and shrouded in a gentle mist, like a hidden paradise. As you step into the hot spring street, the stone-paved road is dotted with warm lights, and a faint scent of sulfur wafts through the air. Choose a hot spring to soak in, where moss-covered stones around the pool add a touch of rustic charm. The steaming hot water gently envelops your body, instantly washing away the fatigue of the journey. The temperature of the hot spring water is just right, making you close your eyes and quietly feel the warmth seep into your skin, as if even your soul is being soothed. In the distance, the chirping of birds and the babbling of a stream create a natural symphony, making you completely immersed in the tranquility of the mountains. As night falls, the lights by the pool reflect on the water's surface, gently swaying with the mountain breeze that carries the fresh scent of the forest. At this moment, the world feels vast, yet your heart is exceptionally peaceful. Kurokawa Onsen allows you to experience the gentleness of nature, and this unforgettable hot spring journey becomes a warm memory deep in your heart.

Aso Kurokawa Hidden Gem Accommodation in Kumamoto

Whether traveling with friends or family, the number of people that can stay is always our top priority when booking accommodation. This time, we booked a guesthouse in Kumamoto, and it turned out to be quite special. Located near Kurokawa Onsen, it's in a relatively remote area, deep in the mountains, making it more suitable for those traveling by car. Unlike traditional hot spring inns, this place is surrounded by forests, offering a rare tranquility. You can listen to the cicadas, escape the hustle and bustle of skyscrapers and city life, and enjoy the serene environment, gaze at the stars, and spend quality time with friends under a sky free from light pollution. The journey there was quite an adventure, with only a single narrow and winding mountain road. So, it's best to ask the guesthouse owner for the best route before you go, as the route suggested by Google Maps is longer. The guesthouse is spacious, accommodating up to six people with two double beds and tatami mats. It is well-equipped with essentials such as a dishwasher, washing machine, induction cooker, rice cooker, and coffee machine, but you need to bring your own ingredients and seasonings. If you don't have your own, don't worry; there are two food vending machines at the entrance offering curry rice, ramen, and chicken soup. Additionally, there's a fire starter on the terrace, perfect for a campfire night with friends. For entertainment, besides local TV channels, there's also Netflix and YouTube, so you can cozy up with friends and watch Netflix. 😌 It also has its own private bath, with certified natural spring water. Checking in is very simple. There's a tablet on the coffee table by the sofa. Just enter the guest's information and confirm via video call with the staff to complete the contactless check-in. With a grateful heart, I experienced everything. Besides feeling a sense of happiness, I also felt fortunate to be healthy and alive, wishing I could turn back time to this summer.

🎋 Luxe Kumamoto Onsen Retreat: Bamboo Bliss & Healing Springs 🌿

Escape to the serene bamboo embrace of Takefue Bamboo Heart Rokku, a hidden gem nestled in the mountains of Kumamoto. 🏞️ Indulge in the luxury of seclusion with only 12 unique rooms, each boasting its own style of indoor baths and some with outdoor pools, all fed by natural springs. 🛀 Wrap yourself in one of 20 yukata styles, grind fresh coffee in the afternoon sun, and let a dedicated butler cater to your every need. The fridge, stocked with complimentary treats, is just the cherry on top! 🍒 Feast on monthly-changing high-end kaiseki cuisine or savor a BBQ under the stars. 🍱 In the morning, pick between a Japanese or Western breakfast served right in your room. 🍳 Heal your body and soul in the therapeutic onsen waters, offering relief and relaxation. Choose from three rental onsen styles, including a 'Bamboo Forest Bath' and a 'Rock Cave Bath'. 🍃 For leisure, the Zen and Spa provide stress-relieving treatments, while Garden TAKEZONO transforms from a café to a bar, perfect for afternoon tea or a nightcap. 🍵🍷 📍 Hikyou Shirakawagensen Sansou Takefue, 5725 Manganji, Minamioguni, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture, 869-2402, Japan

🌸 Unwind in Kumamoto: Satonoyu Waraku's Serene Escape 🌸

Hey wanderers! 🌍 Let's dive into the tranquil vibes of Satonoyu Waraku, a hot spring haven nestled in the heart of a lush valley. Imagine soaking in cultural richness while you rejuvenate your senses. 🛀 First off, this spot is a bit of a hidden gem, so make sure to plan your journey ahead to reach this secluded paradise. 🗺️ The traditional room designs whisper tales of timeless elegance, ensuring every moment is steeped in authenticity. 🏯 Feeling peckish? The dining experience may be modest, but it's the perfect prelude to a starlit dip in the thermal waters. 🍽️✨ But, a little heads-up for the adventurous souls – keep an eye out for the curious critters that share this natural retreat. 🐜 The real showstopper is the onsen itself. Surrender to the embrace of warm springs surrounded by serene vistas, where every soak is a luxurious nod to nature's beauty. 🌄 It's a thumbs-up from fellow hot spring aficionados who've left with nothing but glowing reviews and rejuvenated spirits. 🌟 Ready for your serene escape? 📍 Manganji 6351-1, Minamioguni Town, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture, 869-2402, Japan

🌸 Serene Kumamoto Stay: Yamamizuki's Onsen Escape 🌿

🚪 Ever dreamt of a room where the rustling river and chirping birds are your soundtrack? Nestled in Kumamoto, Yamamizuki offers that and more! With a mix of modern and traditional Japanese design, every room is a serene retreat, some boasting personal hot springs with lush green vistas. 🍵 Gastronomy lovers, rejoice! The kaiseki cuisine is a parade of delicate flavors served in petite dishes. From bamboo shoots in May to the hearty dango soup, local ingredients take center stage, transforming countryside staples into chic, gourmet experiences. 🍜 Can't get enough of breakfast? Imagine a room flooded with morning light, where the side dishes are so compelling, seconds aren't just an option—they're a necessity! And with a coffee maker in each room, lounging until checkout is a blissful affair. 📍6392-2 Manganji, Minamioguni, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture, 869-2402, Japan Ready to indulge in tranquility and taste? Yamamizuki awaits! 🛀✨

Enjoy Kurokawa Ryokan … unforgettable

Kurokawa Onsen Guide in Kumamoto!

Kurokawa Onsen is located in Minamioguni, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture, and has been rated as a two-star hot spring area by the 'Michelin Travel Guide Japan'. The entire hot spring area has about 28 hot springs In addition to the many delicacies and souvenir shops on the old street, there is also an honest shop that specializes in selling hot spring eggs, various types of foot baths, and the unique 'face bath' that you can't find elsewhere, which is quite fun and interesting😁 Friends who have the chance to visit the Red Hall must take a walk in Kurokawa Onsen, eat and stroll around~ Personal Special Recommendations 🧁Patisserie Roku Business hours: 9:00～17:00, closed on Tuesdays 🧇Doradora Dorayaki Business hours: 09:00-18:00 🍦Yunon Business hours: 9:00~18:00

Serene Luxury at Takefue Ryokan

#familytrips2024 Nestled in the lush bamboo forests of Kyushu, Takefue Ryokan offers a serene escape where traditional Japanese elegance meets modern luxury. This exquisite ryokan in Kumamoto Prefecture provides an intimate experience with its beautifully designed villas, each featuring private open-air onsen baths and stunning views of the surrounding nature. Guests are pampered with impeccable service, including personalized kaiseki meals showcasing seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. The tranquil ambiance of Takefue, combined with its exquisite architecture and attentive hospitality, creates an unforgettable retreat. Whether soaking in a hot spring bath, strolling through the enchanting bamboo groves, or savoring gourmet cuisine, Takefue promises a rejuvenating and culturally enriching stay. #Takefue #LuxuryRyokan #KyushuTravel #JapaneseHospitality #OnsenRetreat #KaisekiCuisine #BambooForest #Kumamoto #TraditionalElegance #TravelJapan #SereneEscape #HotSpringBath #CulturalExperience #LuxuryTravel #NatureRetreat #TravelInStyle #UnforgettableStay #ScenicViews #ilovetravelling #penangfoodandtravel

This is my fifth time staying in Japan at my favorite hotel, without a doubt

This is my fifth time staying in Japan at my favorite hotel, without a doubt. Today, I want to introduce everyone to a low-key yet luxurious onsen ryokan 【Takefue Bamboo Heart Rokku】 Built against the mountain, hidden in a bamboo forest, it is serene and secluded. The open-air baths, made from natural rocks, integrate everything in the ryokan with nature. During the maple season, falling leaves add a touch of wilderness >Hidden deep in the bamboo forest 【Bamboo】has only 12 rooms, each a separate building with different styles of indoor baths, and some rooms also have outdoor bath pools. All water sources are natural springs, making it a beautiful and dignified secret residence The hotel has prepared 20 styles of yukata for female guests to choose from, truly satisfying a woman's love for beauty. All rooms are equipped with coffee machines, and in the afternoon when the sunlight flickers through the bamboo forest, wearing a beloved yukata and grinding a cup of rich and fragrant coffee is extremely comfortable D The first-class service is also praiseworthy, with each room having a dedicated butler to take care of the guests' daily life and meals, and the fridge is stocked with food and drinks, all for free >Takefue Creative Cuisine For dinner, the hotel offers high-end kaiseki cuisine that changes monthly, using seasonal ingredients and fresh mountain and sea delicacies from Kumamoto, with barbecue as an option Q For breakfast, you can choose between Japanese or Western food, and both breakfast and dinner can be enjoyed in the room C If you want to have a drink or celebrate a festival, you can order sake, wine, various cakes, and more >Soaking in the Healing Onsen The Takefue source water is a therapeutic spring with effects such as lowering blood pressure, pain relief, and sedation In addition to enjoying the private bath in the room, the hotel also has three different styles of rental onsen pools: 'Bamboo Forest Bath' surrounded by bamboo leaves and red maple, 'Rock Cave Bath' like a secret base, and 'Inner Bath' accompanied by a mini waterfall The hotel also has a luxurious space 'Bamboo Castle no Toi', surrounded by bamboo, with a large open-air bath, tatami, sound system, TV, and drinks, but it is only available to guests staying in Kokyuan, Sayo, Shienan, or Bettei Tenku rooms >Enjoying Leisure Time Zen and Spa: Aimed at healing treatments, Zen stress adjustment, relieving physical fatigue Garden TAKEZONO: Used as a café during the day and offers afternoon tea, transforms into a bar at night

Welcome drink serve before the onsen.

Unagi Restaurant in kurokawa Onsen

Recently visited kurokawa which was a perfect getaway from bustling city like Hakata. I love the rural side of Japan, where I can full enjoy it to the max. I only went for a day trip but I definitely will go back to kurokawa and enjoy all the Onsens. 👍 #Fukuoka #Spring #food #Unagi #Kurokawa #Onsen

Enjoy a 5-day, 4-night trip soaking in hot springs and admiring plum blossoms in Kyushu like this!!

||| It's going to warm up soon♨️ This season is the best time for hot springs! When thinking of hot springs, the first place that comes to mind is Kyushu, known as the 'Land of Hot Springs'🤩 Now, not only can you enjoy a soak, but you can also admire the rime ice and plum blossoms👀 A 5-day, 4-night itinerary is not too rushed at all, perfect for lazy babies! ——— ✏️Itinerary DAY 1 Domestic - Fukuoka - Kurokawa Onsen DAY 2 Kurokawa Onsen - Kokonoe Yume Suspension Bridge - Yufuin DAY 3 Yufuin - Oita - Kitsuki - Yufuin DAY 4 Yufuin - Hita - Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine - Fukuoka DAY 5 Fukuoka - Domestic ——— 🙋🏻‍♀️A word from Lulu Japan's transportation is notoriously complex and difficult, especially in less popular areas🤯 It can really be a headache! If you find making travel plans troublesome, there's really no need to force yourself to go on a free-and-easy trip, as it can be more tiring! Hate traveling with a large group❓ No problem‼️ Lulu has prepared a refined travel squad for two! Get everything sorted at once: hotel + transportation + tickets + accommodation + driver + most meals🍴 Only with high-quality, comfortable travel can you fully enjoy it! . ✨Trip Highlights 🔸Check in at the town of Yufuin, take the popular train through 'Yufuin no Mori', as if entering a fairy tale! 🔸Visit the Oita Prefectural Art Museum🎨 which houses a collection of Yayoi Kusama's works from various periods, including her iconic pumpkins and more 🔸Mameda Town🈶️ known as the 'Kyoto of Kyushu'! Experience the charm of old Kyushu with a city walk🚶 on the ancient streets! 🔸Check in at major Kyushu attractions: Kokonoe Yume Suspension Bridge, Beppu Tsurumi, Yoshino Plum Garden, Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine to admire the plum blossoms! 🔸Stay in exquisite hot spring hotels that are usually hard to book♨️ Enjoy the natural scenery of the countryside and have access to open-air baths at any time!! . 🛏️About Accommodation Kurokawa Onsen - Hoshoan or equivalent hotel Yufuin - Hanayu or equivalent hotel Fukuoka - Grand Hyatt or equivalent hotel ——— Kyushu, Japan

Can’t wait to get back to Kyushu!

The amazing Kurokawa Onsen 黑山溫泉 The place is filled with high quality Royokans and charming food places to sample. A couple of nights would be enough if you get a chance to experience Kyushu.

Rakuten stay villa

#2024wish Set in Yamanakako, 35 km from Mount Fuji and 45 km from Hakone-Yumoto Station, Rakuten STAY VILLA Lake Yamanakako 102 View bath Mt Fuji View offers air conditioning. With free private parking, the property is 20 km from Fuji-Q Highland and 23 km from Lake Kawaguchi. The property is non-smoking and is located 5.1 km from Lake Yamanaka.With free WiFi, this 2-bedroom holiday home offers a cable TV, a washing machine and a fully equipped kitchen with a microwave and fridge.overall it awesome

Explore Japan's most beautiful hidden hot springs | Kurokawa Onsen 💦

In the hot spring town of Minamioguni, Aso County, there is a serene and comfortable place - Kurokawa Onsen. This highly renowned hot spring town is located at the border of Kumamoto and Oita prefectures, offering picturesque views throughout the four seasons. There are seven types of hot springs here, each with its unique features in the open-air baths of every hot spring inn. If you are a hot spring enthusiast, you can purchase the "Kurokawa Onsen Bathing Pass" for 1,300 yen (700 yen for children) to receive a wooden pass. With it, you can visit three of the 25 participating hot spring inns. You can buy it at the Kurokawa Onsen Tourism Association or any of the inns. Strolling along the streets of this small town, you can hear the sound of the mountain stream and see the steam rising from the hot springs. The tranquil atmosphere envelops the entire town, allowing you to relax both physically and mentally. The slow pace of the town, surrounded by beautiful scenery, makes even the cats on the road lazy, enjoying the touch of passersby. Immersing yourself in this atmosphere, you can instantly forget your worries and fatigue. #JapanAttractions #JapanTravel #Travel #ResidentWriter #OverseasTravel #Japan

Feeling tired lately? These healing places are worth a visit

Go to a hot spring hotel and experience ultimate service. 📍Kumamoto The misty hot springs, delicious food, can warm our bodies, while the gentle laughter and warm human feelings can warm our hearts. Why not take a warm and heartwarming trip to a luxurious hot spring hotel? A large bamboo forest covering over 10,000 square meters, with tens of thousands of bamboo trees and hundreds of red leaves, is where the Asu Bamboo FUE is located in Kumamoto Prefecture. Each room has a uniquely designed private hot spring pool, allowing you to blend in with nature and leave behind all worldly troubles. In all rooms, there is coffee and graphite. On a sunny afternoon in the bamboo forest, wearing a beloved yukata, grinding a cup of rich and fragrant coffee for oneself is truly delightful. In addition to the private hot spring pool in the room, Bamboo FUE also has four different styles of rental hot spring pools: the Bamboo Forest Bath surrounded by bamboo leaves and red maples, the cave outdoor hot spring like a secret base, the Aono Bath accompanied by a mini waterfall, and the Sasabune Bath full of the fragrance of Japanese cypress. Be healed by the blue at the seaside. 📍Kagoshima Located in Kagoshima, Higashikagawa Beach is a dreamlike and irregularly appearing scenic white sand beach that can only be reached by boat or jet ski. This is a stunning white sand beach known as the "phantom scenery" and rarely visited by tourists. To see it, you have to rely on luck completely - it only appears during specific periods of the year when there are several major ebb tides from spring to summer. Clear and emerald sea water, sandy beaches with patterns resembling mountain ridges, and beautiful and dreamy star sand, this is nothing short of paradise. Although located at the southernmost tip of Kagoshima, it is also easily accessible from Okinawa. The official website of Ton Island will announce the low tide period, so remember to plan ahead. Experience the natural grandeur of Mt. Osore. 📍Gunma Located at the junction of Gunma, Niigata, Tochigi, and Fukushima prefectures, Oze National Park boasts the largest high-altitude wetland area in Japan. With magnificent scenery and rare views, it is truly a hidden treasure of nature. And because of the vast territory and numerous landscapes here, it is difficult to see crowds of people, making it a good place to escape during the long holiday. One of the most rare and precious landscapes in Waseda is the more than 400 shallow ponds scattered throughout the area, where rare wetland plants such as lotus and yellow sedge grow, forming a stunningly beautiful scenery. The entire area has been designated as a special natural monument. The entire National Park can be roughly divided into three areas: the "Osawa area" with vast wetlands such as Osawa Hara and Osawa Numa, as well as famous peaks such as Foshan and Suigaku; the "Aizu-Jukai area" where you can see the blooming of the Shirakami cherry blossoms all over the wetlands near the summit of Mt. Jodake in Aizu; and the "Tashiroyama and Taishiyama area", where you can enjoy the famous mountain top wetlands of Tashiroyama and the colony of ferns. Different routes lead to different scenery.

There are many hot springs in Kurokawa Onsen, and they are basically full of houses every day. Therefore, if you want to come to the hot springs, you must make a reservation in advance. Otherwise, if you come here and make a reservation, it is very possible. It is on the street. The price of Kurokawa Onsen is about 1000-2500. It usually includes the first day of dinner and the next day's breakfast. The meal is very rich. Kurokawa has two open-air hot springs, three different types of family soups, and of course hot springs for visitors who are not used. Guests can choose any hot spring bath for any length of time. Two of the open-air hot spring soups are exchanged in the morning and evening. Family soup should make an appointment with the front desk in advance, it will help to stay in the room~ The more important thing to note here is that Japanese hot springs are bare soup, so there are tattoos. Its not ok, a small area of tattoo can be covered with a towel or other coverings, but a large area may not be able to use public soup and can only choose to soak in the family soup or in your own room~ Its time for dinner. The waiter will put the prepared kaiseki cuisine in the room. Not only is the nutrition and richness, but these dishes are really so beautiful.