Get Away from Big City Hustle and Bustle in Kurokawa Onsen

Introduction

Kurokawa Onsen, nestled deep in the lush mountains of Kumamoto Prefecture, is a quaint hot spring town with about thirty inns, each designed as separate "rooms" of a single, large ryokan. The town is known for its rich natural scenery and abundant hot springs, changing beautifully with each season. The concept of "Kurokawa Onsen as one ryokan" means the entire town, with its scenic paths and numerous inns, is perceived as one cohesive entity, providing a seamless and immersive experience for visitors.

The town features the Nyuto Tegata, a pass allowing visitors to enjoy three of the 26 open-air baths or use one for dining or shopping. The system promotes the entire town as a unified onsen destination, reflecting the community's collaborative spirit. Key attractions include Nabegataki Falls, Mt. Kishima, and various seasonal festivals, providing a rich blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.

History

The town's history as an onsen destination dates back to the Edo period, when it served as a healing spot for the injured and a resting place for feudal officials. However, its recognition as a hot spring town began after WWII, with the establishment of the Kurokawa Onsen Tourist Ryokan Cooperative in 1961. Despite initial challenges, the 1980s brought significant improvements with the introduction of the "Nyuto Tegata," a pass allowing visitors to enjoy multiple open-air baths across the town. This initiative transformed Kurokawa Onsen into a nationally renowned destination, known for its rustic charm and communal hot spring experiences. The town continues to thrive, maintaining its "one ryokan" ethos while welcoming guests to its tranquil and picturesque environment.

Tips to visit Kurokawa Onsen

What is the Nyuto Tegata?

With the Nyuto Tegata, you can choose and enjoy three out of 26 open-air baths in Kurokawa Onsen. Additionally, one of the three choices can be used for dining or souvenir shopping. After use, the Tegata can be kept as a souvenir or offered at the local Jizo hall.

Nyuto Tegata Details:

• Price: 1,500 yen (tax included) per adult.
• Purchase Locations: Available at various inns within Kurokawa Onsen or at the Kurokawa Onsen Ryokan Cooperative "Kaze no Yakata."
• Validity: Six months from the purchase date.
• Bathing Hours: 8:30 AM to 9:00 PM.
• Restrictions: Bathing times and the number of visitors may be restricted due to infectious disease control measures.

How to Use the Nyuto Tegata:

1. Purchase the Tegata at the cooperative or any participating inn.
2. Choose your desired open-air baths, dining, or souvenir spots.
3. Get the Tegata stamped at the front desk of each location.

Birth Story of the Nyuto Tegata:

Post-WWII, six inns established the Kurokawa Onsen Cooperative, focusing on creating an open-air bath town. The Tegata system was introduced to help inns that couldn't build their own open-air baths, promoting the whole town as a unified onsen destination.

New Attractions of the Nyuto Tegata:

1. Regional Currency: The Tegata can be used for dining and shopping within the onsen town.
2. Customization: Each Tegata can be stamped with unique designs from different inns.
3. Environmental Contribution: 1% of Tegata sales support local environmental conservation.

Hot Springs

Day Use

In Kurokawa Onsen, several hot spring hotels offer day-use facilities, without an overnight stay. It's always a good idea to check directly with the hotel for the most up-to-date hours and availability. Here are a few notable ones:

1. Yamamizuki

• Description: Famous for its beautiful outdoor baths along a river, providing a serene natural experience.
• Hours: Typically from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
• Website: Yamamizuki

2. Kurokawa-So

• Description: Offers a variety of baths, including a mixed-gender outdoor bath and private family baths.
• Hours: Generally from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
• Website: Kurokawa-So

3. Shinmeikan

• Description: Known for its unique cave baths, providing a distinctive hot spring experience.
• Hours: Day-use hours may vary, so it is recommended to check in advance.
• Website: Shinmeikan

4. Ikoi Ryokan

• Description: Offers multiple types of baths, including a milky white sulfur bath and an outdoor bath.
• Hours: Typically from 8:30 AM to 9:00 PM
• Website: Ikoi Ryokan

5. Ryokan Wakaba

• Description: Features indoor and outdoor baths with a tranquil garden view.
• Hours: Usually available from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
• Website: Ryokan Wakaba

Family Baths (Private Baths):

Several inns offer family baths for private use. Note that the Nyuto Tegata cannot be used for these baths, and reservations are recommended.

Notable Attractions and Activities:

• Nabegataki Falls: A scenic waterfall accessible by car in about 20 minutes from Kurokawa Onsen.
• Mt. Kishima and Sea of Clouds: Popular hiking spots with stunning views.
• Wave Flower Field at Nami Station: Famous for its beautiful buckwheat flower fields.
• Tsujunkyo Carp Streamer Festival: An annual festival with colorful carp streamers.
• Aso Volcano Museum: Offers insights into the volcanic activity of Mount Aso.
• Yume Akari: An annual winter light-up event in Kurokawa Onsen.
• Aspiecta Prefectural Outdoor Theater: A popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in spring.
• Grassland of Kusasenri: A picturesque grassland offering panoramic views.
• Aso Shrine: A historic shrine that has been partially restored after the Kumamoto earthquake.
• Lactown Mothers Aso Milk Farm: A family-friendly farm offering hands-on experiences.
• Takimi Bridge: A scenic spot known for its large ginkgo tree.

Access

To access Kurokawa Onsen from Kumamoto, the following routes are available:

By Public Transportation:

1. From Kumamoto Station:

   • Take the JR Kyushu Hohi Main Line (local train) from Kumamoto Station to Aso Station. This journey typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

2. From Aso Station:

   • From Aso Station, take a Kyushu Odan Bus bound for Kurokawa Onsen. The bus ride usually takes about 50 minutes to 1 hour.

By Car:

1. From Kumamoto:
   • Drive via the Kyushu Expressway and take the Aso/Kusasenri IC (Interchange) exit.
   • Continue on Route 57 and then Route 212 towards Kurokawa Onsen.
   • The journey by car typically takes around 2 hours.

By Taxi or Private Shuttle:

• You can also book a taxi or a private shuttle service from Kumamoto to Kurokawa Onsen for a more direct and comfortable journey. This option is more expensive but offers convenience and flexibility.

Tips:

• Use our app to check the bus schedule in advance, as the frequency of buses might be limited.
• If you're driving, be mindful of mountain roads, especially during winter months when they may be icy or snow-covered.