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?

• 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.