Photo of Kurokawa Onsen

About Kurokawa Onsen

A hot spring town in the heart of Kyushu, Kurokawa Onsen is a wonderful destination for nature lovers or traditional spa-goers. Accommodation options are clustered along the river which winds its way through town, meaning that guests can expect picturesque views of the water and leafy forest or gardens from almost every hotel or ryokan. The best places to stay in Kurokawa Onsen tend to be small and characterful, retaining elements of classic Japanese design. Many offer superb kaiseki cuisine and the rejuvenating hot spring baths for which the region has become famous.

Slightly north of Mount Aso, Kurokawa Onsen is a great base for nature lovers, hikers and cyclists, who will find winding forested paths aplenty, and can spot abundant birdlife as they explore. Discover the town centre, with its riverside ryokans, shops, cafés and public bath houses, on foot. Unspoilt by development, this is a very special place, and guided tours come highly recommended — as does onsen-hopping, for which day passes are available at the information centre. Culture enthusiasts may want to venture slightly further to admire Kumamoto Castle.

Return to your pick of the best places to stay in Kurokawa Onsen to feast on regional cuisine with views of manicured gardens and the river.

The Best Places to Stay in Kurokawa Onsen

For Traditional Charm

  • Ryokan Yumotoso has just 12 guest rooms, and its design reflects the style of the Edo period. Think lots of exposed wooden beams, paper shutters and Japanese calligraphy. The hot spring baths have a magical, timeless feel. Very close to the river.
  • Ryokan Sanga is perched at the source of two hot water springs. A brilliant choice for those looking to soothe aching muscles in typical onsen baths, it's also an intruiging ryokan in that it fuses classic design with more glass, enhancing tranquil forest views. Lovely.
  • Ryokan Wakaba should be top of the list for hikers and birdwatchers, who will appreciate the leafy location. Close to the river and various trekking routes, this ryokan has pared-back rooms with low seating areas and tatami matting. The kaiseki cuisine is excellent.
  • Kurokawa Onsen Oku No Yu is a tranquil, 26-room hotel with an indoor swimming pool and restful, traditional rooms, some of which have private terraces. The onsen baths promise a typical Japanese experience.

For Romantic Luxury

  • Kurokawa Onsen Oyado Noshiyu is a gorgeous, adults-only hideaway in town. Well located for exploring, this 11-room boutique spot is still surrounded by verdant forest. Beamed ceilings, tatami mats and low-level dining tables give rooms a traditional feel. The restaurant is excellent.
  • Miyama Sansou resembles a small village, with buildings set between the forest and the paddy fields. Individual cottages with private onsens promise plenty of privacy, ideal for couples looking to unwind in blissful tranquility.
  • Takefue offers luxurious lodges nestled within a bamboo forest. Take restful soaks in natural hot spring baths, enjoy rejuvenating massages and feast on delectable cuisine at the restaurant. A hugely romantic boutique choice.

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 to Oita Airport or to Kumamoto Airport, both just under 1.5 hours away. Most hotels will be happy to help arrange an airport pick up.
  • You'll 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 22 - 30°C. Come during the winter to see Kurokawa Onsen filled with warm steam rising from the hot springs.

STILL NOT SURE?

Best Hotels in Kurokawa Onsen

  • Kurokawa Onsen Oku No Yu Kurokawa Onsen (Minamioguni) 26 rooms from £157

    Back to Nature  -  Set close to the Tanohara River, this forested hideaway is wonderful for relaxed couples, independent travellers & birdwatchers
    Other Activities  -  Unwind in the hotel's healing onsens, or the nearby public baths, housed in caves - the Gambanyoku Stone Sauna is superb
    Trekking  -  Follow miles of hiking trails through the surrounding forest, which looks particularly striking in the autumn
    Total relaxation  -  A rural haven situated in the Kurokawa Onsen hot spring area, with rejuvenating onsens
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A tranquil haven hidden in thick forest, situated besides the Tanohara River. Interiors are traditional and minimalist; think paper shutters, tatami mats and plenty of light wood. Boasting an indoor pool and healing hot water spring baths. The perfect spot to completely unwind amongst nature. See More

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  • Ryokan Ichinoi Kurokawa Onsen (Kumamoto,Kyushu) from £158

    Hotel Entertainment  -  Enjoy the soothing embrace of Kodachi no Yu's indoor springs, gazing up at ancient beams while enveloped in healing waters
    Foodies  -  Savour mountain-grown rice in traditional meals, a treat for any foodie seeking authentic flavours
    Total relaxation  -  Indulge in serene hot spring baths amidst Kokonoe's natural splendour for a tranquil spa retreat
    Sights nearby  -  Capture the sunset at Hirano Dai Plateau, where the skies paint a masterpiece over Mt. Aso
    Air conditioningRestaurantViewsParkingNo pets

    A charming ryokan in the heart of Kurokawa's hot-spring district. Traditional Japanese decor creates a serene and authentic vibe. Indulge in private or communal sulfur hot springs, savour meals made with mountain-grown rice, and enjoy the simple elegance of tatami rooms. A calming & relaxing stay. See More

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  • Yamanoyu Ryokan Kurokawa Onsen (Kurokawa Onsen, Kyushu) from £180

    Cycling  -  Pedal through picturesque landscapes on a guided rural E-bike tour, offering a new perspective on the area's charm
    Restaurant  -  Feel the warmth of tradition in a hearth-lit meal at Kaiseki-Yamakyu, with its unique irori ambience
    Total relaxation  -  Bask in the serene glow of the stars above from the top-floor open-air bath, where time stands still
    Hotel Entertainment  -  Discover the healing powers of Minamioguni's natural hot springs, a remedy for both body and soul
    Air conditioningRestaurantViewsParkingNo pets

    Escape to a hidden mountain gem in Minamioguni. Inside, a traditional Ryokan vibe blends with modern comforts, surrounded by nature's grandeur and hot springs. Feast in two distinctive restaurants, savouring local kaiseki cuisine in intimate settings. An authentic Japanese experience. See More

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  • Ryokan Wakaba Kurokawa Onsen (Minamioguni) 15 rooms from £224

    Groups  -  Groups will appreciate the larger rooms, which have space for 4 futon beds, and the shared onsens
    Back to Nature  -  A tranquil property set within the forest, this is a great choice for hikers and spa-goers
    Other Activities  -  Unwind in the hotel's onsens (hot water spring baths) or enjoy a restorative massage
    Sights nearby  -  The impressive Aso Shrine is a local landmark and well worth visiting
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenParkingNo pets

    A charming traditional ryokan set in the leafy forest, close to the river.Rooms feature tatami mats, floor-level dining tables and paper shutters - some have private bathrooms. A number of indoor and outdoor hot spring baths will ease any aching muscles. Rural bliss for keen hikers and birdwatchers. See More

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  • Ryokan Sanga Kurokawa Onsen (Kumamoto) 15 rooms from £224

    Spa breaks  -  Boasting two hot water spring sources; one offering medicinal benefits and the other cleansing for the skin.
    Trekking  -  Wind your way through the forest, spotting birds and wildlife as you follow tranquil hiking trails
    Romantic Break  -  A romantic ryokan for quiet couples looking to relax and unwind in the forest
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the historic Mangan-ji Temple, just 10 minutes from the property
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenParkingNo pets

    A traditional property situated in a picturesque forest at the source of two hot water springs. The house, made from wood and glass, mixes traditional design with contemporary style. Classically Japanese rooms feature tatami mats and paper shutters. A place to completely unwind as couple or group. See More

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  • Ryokan Yumotoso Kurokawa Onsen (Kumamoto) 12 rooms from £323

    Romantic Break  -  Brilliant for romantic couples looking to kick back in elegant, traditional rooms with picturesque views
    Country Escape  -  A charming rural property, set close to the river and offering rejuvenating onsen baths
    Sights nearby  -  10-minute drive away, Meotodaki Falls are gorgeous & well worth visiting
    Other Activities  -  Enjoy the healing properties of the shared indoor and outdoor onsens
    Air conditioningRestaurantViewsParkingNo pets

    A traditional wooden property set overlooking the Tanoharu River in the Kurokawa Onsen hot-spring area. Atmospheric rooms are reminiscent of design from the end of Edo Period yet with modern comforts such as western beds and flat-screen TVs. A charming rural escape, with a luxurious feel. See More

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  • Kurokawa So Kurokawa Onsen (Kumamoto, Kyushu) 21 rooms from £339

    Total relaxation  -  Unwind in Kurokawaso's milky green hot springs, a spa sanctuary offering blissful relaxation with a cliffside view
    Great walks  -  Capture breathtaking views from Daikanbo Overlook, offering a panoramic vista of Aso's majestic landscapes
    Sights nearby  -  Embark on a serene journey, exploring Kuju Flower Park, a bloom of colours just 20 minutes away
    Local exploring  -  Immerse in tradition at Kurokawaso and discover Japan's heart amidst the serene Mt. Aso
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    This 4* ryokan in a serene valley by Mt. Aso, is a haven of tranquility and traditional Japanese charm. Its decor blends timeless elegance with a touch of modern comfort. With tatami-clad rooms, 6 hot spring baths, & a culinary journey through Japanese cuisine, it's an immersive cultural experience. See More

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  • Miyama Sansou Kurokawa Onsen (Kumamoto Prefecture) 16 rooms from £401

    Total relaxation  -  Rooms with private hot spring tubs are perfect for unwinding in traditional, luxurious surroundings
    Country Escape  -  Overlooking a stream, leafy forest and lush green paddy fields, this is a picturesque rural spot
    Skiing  -  Hit the slopes at the nearby Kuju Forest park Ski Area during the winter months
    Great walks  -  Ask the team about marked paths for relaxing walks in the area
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A luxurious rural escape built to resemble a small village. Chic individual cottages have minimalist traditional interiors and architecture making the most of the epic views. Rooms feature natural spring hot tubs, western beds and paper shutters. The perfect countryside hideaway for adults. See More

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  • Kurokawa Onsen Oyado Noshiyu Kurokawa Onsen (Kumamoto) 11 rooms from £424

    Cycling  -  Hire bicycles to explore the area on two wheels, cycling both through town and along the river into the surrounding forest
    Honeymoons  -  An adults-only spot with indulgent rooms and suites featuring hot spring baths and delicious cuisine
    Local exploring  -  Brilliantly located for exploring the town, nearby hot springs and restaurants on foot
    Birdwatching  -  Bring your bird book and binoculars to spot local wildlife flitting between the trees
    RestaurantGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A small traditional Japanese inn set in town yet surrounded by forest. The eleven atmospheric rooms have beamed ceilings, tatami mats and low-level dining tables. Regional dishes are served in the dining room and there are both indoor and outdoor onsens to relax in. A charming, adult-only stay. See More

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  • Takefue Kurokawa Onsen (Aso District) 12 rooms from £480

    Spa breaks  -  With a Zen Spa onsite complete with natural hot springs and holistic treaments, book this hotel for a unique spa break
    Romantic Break  -  With luxury toiletries, romantic hot springs and a peaceful setting, book this hotel for a couples' hideaway holiday
    Back to Nature  -  Located on the cusp of a bamboo forest in Shirakawa, this hotel makes a tranquil nature retreat
    Sights nearby  -  Take a day trip to the Tsuetate Hot Spring in nearby Oguni-machi; ask the hotel to arrange a transfer for you
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantGardenViewsNo pets

    This hideaway hotel is nestled within a native bamboo forest in Kyushu. Guest lodges are equipped with straw sandals, Tempur bedding and bamboo grove water from nearby springs, in addition to a tea box and traditional Yukata gowns. Soak in natural hot springs after dinner at the restaurant. See More

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  • Gekkoju Kurokawa Onsen (Minamioguni) 8 rooms from £882

    Total relaxation  -  Enjoy the use of private open air baths in the rooms, or relax in the outdoor bath with breathtaking mountain views
    Views  -  Either on a leisurely stroll or in your private bath, take in the gorgeous views of the Korukawa countryside
    Local exploring  -  Explore the nearby town of Kurokawa Onsen, with an abundance of hot springs, and sites to visit
    Traditional  -  Authentic Japanese interiors, rooms feature woven tatami flooring and futon bedding
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantViewsParkingNo pets

    A luxurious traditional ryokan in Kurokawa Onsen. Eight individually designed rooms feature minimalist style décor and all boast both an indoor and outdoor bath (all fed by free-flowing hot spring water). Lovely mature gardens, fantastic views and superb cuisine. Relaxation guaranteed! See More

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