Not far from Nagasaki, the hot spring town of Unzen is a fantastic springboard for travellers looking to discover the striking volcanic landscapes of the Unzen-Amakusa National Park. Originally a temple town, Unzen has been popular with international visitors since the Meiji period, in the late 19th and early 20th Centuries. Accommodation options include traditional ryokans as well as swish modern hotels, perfect for couples, families or friends with a range of tastes and budgets. Many of the best places to stay in Unzen are set in forested surroundings, well-located for National Park explorations.

Unzen is a wonderful year-round destination, with beautiful spring and autumn colours in the forest, warm summers for hiking, cycling and horse riding, and cool winters warmed by the hot spring baths. There’s something magical about the billowing steam of the hot spring fields — Unzen Jigoku —sweeping across the town, and long pensive soaks, massages and traditional treatments are not to be missed. In the Unzen-Amakusa National Park, clamber up Mount Unzen for magical ocean views, spot bottlenose dolphins on boat tours of the Hayasakiseto Strait, and delve into the world of fossils on Goshoura Island. Shimabara Castle and Manmyoji Temple are also wonderful.

Kick back in the hot springs and feast on flavoursome kaiseki cuisine during restful evenings at the best places to stay in Unzen.

The Best Places to Stay in Unzen

For a Classic Ryokan

• Unzen Fukudaya has a traditional feel, with hot spring baths and kaiseki cuisine. Guests can choose between futon beds and Western options in rooms with tatami matting and low seating areas. Very atmospheric.
• Azumaen Ryokan is a restful retreat on the banks of Lake Oshidori. Admire expansive lake views as you sink into the onsen baths. Rooms feature tatami matting, paper screens and light wooden details. A relaxing lakeside escape with the interiors of a traditional ryokan.

For Contemporary Luxury

• Miyazaki Ryokan is a minimalist contemporary hotel — previously a traditional ryokan — close to the National Park. Expect swish, pared-back rooms, bathrooms and shared spaces, expansive gardens and restful hot spring baths. Splendid gourmet cuisine completes the picture. Romantic and well-placed for immersing yourself in nature.
• Unzen Kyushu Hotel offers indulgent rooms and private villas in the beautiful Unzen-Amakusa National Park. Rooms have private terraces, hot spring baths and leafy forest views. A grand, pillared entrance welcomes guests to this luxury hotel. Expect delicious dishes in a superb setting, and easy access to a wealth of activities.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY HOUSE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly into Tokyo's Haneda Airport or Narita Airport to catch a connecting flight to Nagasaki Airport. Travel 50 minutes to Unzen by bus or taxi. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick up.
• You may want to drive if you're exploring Kyushu independently. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the summer, spring or early autumn for the warmest weather, with temperatures of 23 - 28°C. September is cooler and quieter.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Kyushu.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Japan.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.