Kurokawa Onsen: Exploring Japanese Hot Spring's Hidden Gems

Last Updated: August 26,2024

Kurokawa Onsen, is located between Mt. Aso and Mt. Kuju, and its beauty has earned it a two-star recommendation as a popular hot spring area in the 2009 Michelin Green Guide of Japan. Kurokawa Onsen has four distinct seasons, from the beauty of cherry blossoms that bloom in spring to the snowy landscape that covers the land with white snow in winter, the scenery is dreamlike, and you can see the dense white smoke that surrounds the mountains. The Kurokawa Onsen Ryokans are located along the Chikugo River and Tanohara Valley. Change into your yukata and take the Kurokawa Onsen's signature "Onsen Hopping Pass" for a mysterious "open-air Kurokawa hot spring tour", and experience a standing beauty bath or the unique cave bath, where you can soak in peace and quiet.

 Table of Contents

1. Overview of Kurokawa Onsen Japan

2. Onsen Hopping Pass

3. Best Onsen in Kurokawa

4. Where to Stay in Kurokawa Onsen

5. What to Do in Kurokawa Onsen

6. How to Get to Kurokawa Onsen

Kurokawa Onsen

1. Overview of Kurokawa Onsen Japan

The history of Kurokawa Onsen Kumamoto can be dated back 300 years to the Edo period. At that time, Kurokawa Onsen was popular for its therapeutic effects. Located between Takeda and Nitta, many lords and travelers between the two areas used to stop here to get rid of their fatigue during their journeys. Although Kurokawa Onsen has a long history, as a tourist attraction, Kurokawa Onsen is still quite young. In the past, because the transportation of Kurokawa Hot Spring was not very convenient, gradually fewer and fewer people wanted to come. Later, the new president of Kurokawa Onsen Shinmei-kan in the hot spring area proposed the idea of renovating Kurokawa Onsen, so that the entire hot spring street would have a uniform building color. A large number of trees were planted to create the atmosphere of a hot spring street in Kumamoto Kurokawa Onsen, and Kurokawa Onsen gradually became popular because it retained its original sense of history and simplicity. Although the history of "Kurokawa Onsen" is not as long as Beppu Onsen, it is loved by Japanese locals for its quietness and has become one of the hidden hot springs in Japan.

In Kurokawa Onsen Village, there are 30 open-air hot springs with different styles, such as wide outdoor rock baths, private baths, dim and mysterious cave baths, and historic wooden barrel baths. You can find hot springs specializing in footbaths on the road, and the price is only 100 yen. There is also a place where you can steam your face on the Kurokawa hot spring street for free. As long as you stand there and let your face steam for one minute, you can feel your skin become thinner and smoother. Each Onsen in Kurokawa is surrounded by lush forests, which are both enjoyable and private. It is an extremely rare luxury experience for a Japan Onsen Tour.

As a first step to Kurokawa Onsen, it is a good idea to visit the information center of Kurokawa Onsen Ryokan Association. This center not only provides all the knowledge and precautions related to Kurokawa hot springs but also gives advice on which hot springs are suitable for you according to your needs. Check out the following Japan onsen tours, with the Kurokawa itinerary included, and contact us if you need to arrange the details.

Onsen in Kyushu Culture Tour
7 Days Fukuoka - Itoshima - Kumamoto - Mt.Aso - Kurokawa - Yufuin - Beppu Tour
7 days | From $ 3420

2. Onsen Hopping Pass (Nyuyoku Tegata /入浴手形)

Kurokawa Onsen features the Onsen Hopping Pass (Nyuyoku Tegata /入浴手形), which is a wooden medal-shaped slice. It is made of local cedar that is cut into thin slices. It can be hung around the neck like a medal. This tegata has the value of preservation and commemoration. The Nyuyoku Tegata can be purchased at the "Kaze-no-sha" of Kurokawa Onsen Ryokan Association or at any Kurokawa Onsen hotel for 1,300 yen. When going to bathe in a hot spring, remember to bring the Onsen Hopping Pass and the towel, and you can experience the natural open-air hot springs of three other hotels within 6 months, which means you can choose the public outdoor baths of the three Kurokawa onsen hotels other than the one you are staying at, and you can get a stamp for each hot springs Ryokan you bathe in. Tourists will hang the tegata with three stamps stamped on it in a temple in the town to pray for blessings. This experience is really great.

The outer hot spring (the part open to the public) of Kurokawa Onsen is generally open until about 10 pm, while the inner hot spring (the part open to private guests) can be open until about 11 pm. There will be a table in the visitor center every day telling you which hot springs are closed today and you cannot bathe in them. If the hot spring is an indoor pool, it will be cleaned once a day, and the outdoor open-air bath will be cleaned once a week, so there will be hot springs that are closed and you cannot experience the Onsen Hopping Pass. Please don’t forget to refer to the situation before arranging your Kurokawa Onsen tour. You can research three hot springs and try them out with different effects.

Before taking a bath, it is best to take a shower at the hotel where you are staying. In order to protect the environment, the open-air hot springs in each hotel no longer provide separate bathing facilities and toiletries for non-hotel bathers. If you are not staying at Kurokawa Onsen and are just experiencing the hot spring tour, remember to scoop water from a small bucket and rinse it before taking a bath. Many local open-air hot springs are mixed bathing for men and women. Remember to check in advance about the Japan mixed bath in Kurokawa Onsen.

3. Best Onsen in Kurokawa

There are 30 Kurokawa onsen hotels where you can experience Japanese hot springs in this Onsen town, but which one is the best onsen kurokawa? Keep reading the Kurokawa Onsen Japan guide to find out the answer here.

 Yamamizuki

Yamamizuki is indeed a place surrounded by mountains, water, and wood, and famous for its open-air hot springs. The pool where the men bathe is called "Ukyuu no Yu" and is about 300 square meters in size, with weakly acidic water. There is also a small waterfall on one side of the pool. So, in addition to enjoying a normal bath, you can also baptize your body and mind with the waterfall. As for the surroundings of Kurokawa Onsen Yamamizuki, there are rocks, trees, and bridges, all of which give you the feeling of escaping away from the city. The woman's bath "Mori no Yu" is also very beautiful and has a 30-meter-long walkway. In the evening, it is a restful treat to watch the dim light of the Yamamizuki Hotel under the cabin, even if you only walk a few steps. The Yamamizuki Onsen is an outdoor hot spring with a small stream at the back, and the sound of running water is a great stress reliever. If you go to Yamamizuki Kurokawa during the maple leaves season in Japan, there are a few maple leaves in the backyard that are in full red color, which are especially colorful when dotted with stars in the sunset sunlight.

Address of Yamamizuki Kurokawa Onsen Kumamoto prefecture: Japan, 〒869-2402 Kumamoto, Aso District, Minamioguni, Manganji, 63922

Hozantei

Hozantei is also a place where you can enjoy ryokan Kurokawa onsen, and it has been in business for about 30 years. Each room of Hozantei ryokan has its own open-air hot spring. Listen to the sound of gurgling spring water and take a short nap, letting your thoughts fly freely in the place you yearn for. When soaking in the Hozantei Onsen, you will feel as if you have been injected with fresh blood cells and are refreshed.

Address: 6346 Manganji, Minamioguni, Aso District, Kumamoto 869-2402, Japan

Iyashi no Sato Kiyashiki

Iyashi no Sato Kiyashiki is located not far from the Kurokawa onsen town and has a large bath with plenty of hot springs, and some guest rooms have guest room open-air baths. The hot springs here are also simple sulfur hot springs that flow from the source, and in addition to the men's and women's pools in the public large bath, there is also an open-air hot spring with a mixed bath where you can look up at the sky full of stars, known as "Mantenkyo-yu". During the day, the baths are a little crowded with residents from the surrounding area and tourists of Kurokawa onsen day trip, but at night, you can experience the fun of the "starry sky". Iyashi no Sato Kiyashiki also has a free family hot spring bath with a unique view of a mountain stream. You can make a reservation at the time of check-in and go in at the right time to enjoy the private onsen.

Address: Japan, 〒869-2402 Kumamoto, Aso District, 阿蘇郡南小国町満願寺6403−1

Kurokawa Onsen Gosho Gekkoju

Kurokawa Onsen Gosho Gekkoju is located high up in the deep mountains of Kurokawa, surrounded by nature, where you can also enjoy a stunning moonlight bath to look at the stars while soaking in the hot spring. Each guest room has both an inner hot spring and an open-air hot spring. The spring water is weakly alkaline and pure hot spring, which can relieve neuralgia, muscle pain, joint pain, frozen shoulder, motor paralysis, stiff joints, bruises, wrinkles, hemorrhoids, chronic digestive disorders, colds, fatigue, health promotion, and recovery from illness. With the changing beauty of nature in all seasons and the oversized private open-air bath, every minute of staying at Kurokawa Onsen Gosho Gekkoju is a dreamy bliss. Enjoy the open-air bath that is one with nature here.

Address: 6777-2 Manganji, Minamioguni, Aso District, Kumamoto 869-2402, Japan

Kounoyu Onsen

RYOKAN KONOYU is a traditional Kurokawa Onsen Ryokan that is located far from the center of the town. It features duplex-style room with open-air baths. When you walk in, you can see there is a large bathing and resting area. Outside is an open-air bath. There is also a massage chair in the rest area. The open-air bath is really awesome, and you can enjoy the scenery before the sky gets dark. There is also an indoor bath, so if you don't like the outdoor bath, you can enjoy it indoors. The Kurokawa Onsen in the RYOKAN KONOYU follows traditional Japanese bathing habits, with men's and women's baths, and has a cozy changing room and shower room where you can get cleaned up before taking a bath. The female hot spring has a standing hot spring and a super large open-air hot spring. There is a pillar in the standing hot spring, which is used to support the bather. Put your hands on the pillar and use the buoyancy of the water to feel like you are swinging. It is worth experiencing. The temperature of the open-air hot spring is suitable, and the surrounding area is integrated with nature, so the view is perfect, and it is very pleasant to rest with your back against the rocks and your eyes closed. Occasionally you can also hear the sound of the leaves rustling down the trees when you are experiencing the hot springs in RYOKAN KONOYU.

Address: 6784 Manganji, Minamioguni, Aso District, Kumamoto 869-2402, Japan

Kurokawa Onsen Ryokan Ichinoi/黒川温泉 旅館 壱の井

RYOKAN ICHINOI features the 100% natural sulfur hot spring. Although it is smelly, your skin is very good after soaking in the hot springs in Kurokawa Onsen Ryokan Ichinoi. The hotel is relatively small, but the open-air bath has a good view. It is about five minutes away from the center of the Kurokawa Onsen town and you have to climb a very hidden slope, but the scenery along the way is very good.

Address: 6630ー1 Manganji, Minamioguni, Aso District, Kumamoto 869-2402, Japan

Note: In addition to the Kurokawa Onsen reviewed above, there is only one other hot spring in town that has iron in it, called Yumotosho, and the hot spring bath is said to be red, so don't miss it if you're interested.

Kurokawa Onsen Ryokan

4. Where to Stay in Kurokawa Onsen

The Onsen hotels in Kurokawa Onsen Street include Yumerindo, Hozantei, Kurokawa Onsen Shinmei-kan, Ryokan Wakaba, Kurokawa Onsen Oyado Noshiyu, Sanga Ryokan, Ryokan Konoyu, Kurokawa Onsen Gosho Gekkoju, etc. These kurokawa onsen hotels have numbers, and the baths have different effects, including weak acidity, acidity, sulfur, iron, and other ingredients. The effects of each ryokan kurokawa onsen are different. You can get an introduction sheet at the tourist center. The characteristics of each ryokan are all marked, and most of the secret baths have healing effects. Each Kurokawa Onsen hotel here has a small number of rooms, so it is recommended to book in advance. Although there are many hot spring hotels here, you don't have to worry about getting lost. There are signboards everywhere, with detailed instructions from the hotels to the shops selling gifts. But which is the best ryokan in Kurokawa onsen? Don't forget to tell us Kurokawa onsen best ryokan in your mind or tell us which one you want to stay in during your Kurokawa Onsen trip by leaving us a message.

Onsen Egg

Ikoi Ryokan

Among the 13 hot springs in Ikoi Ryokan, "Takinoyu" is a mixed-gender open-air bath, which has been selected as one of the 100 most famous and secret hot springs in Japan! There is also a fireplace in the center of the ikoi ryokan kurokawa onsen, where you can gather around with your friends to talk about anything and you will feel very happy and relaxed. The foot bath is free of charge, so you can take a rest while walking around. Onsen eggs are sold at the entrance of the Ikoi Ryokan for 50 yen each, and you can put the money in the cash box next to the ryokan. I don't know if it has the same effect as Hakone Owakudani's egg, which makes you live ten years longer.

Address: 6548 Manganji, Minamioguni, Aso District, Kumamoto 869-2400, Japan

RYOKAN SANGA

RYOKAN SANGA is the furthest away from the center of Kurokawa Onsen town, and it takes about 20 minutes to walk up the hill, but it has a very nice environment and is relatively large. It is said that Sanga Ryokan Kurokawa has seven hot springs, including "Yakushi no yu" and "Bijin no yu," which are effective in alleviating skin diseases, as well as open-air baths and barrel baths in the 3,000-tsubo (10,000 square meters) of the building site. In addition to the public hot springs, there are also a number of private hot springs inside, making Kurokawa Ryokan Sanga suitable for those who don't want to visit a lot of hot springs but want to try different styles of hot springs in one place. Although it is a bit far from the Kurokawa hot spring town, you can get away from the hustle and bustle, listen to the sound of gurgling water, and have a relaxing time here. In the Sanga ryokan kurokawa onsen, there is a lobby where you can relax and enjoy the view, and the fireplace is very atmospheric. However, it seems to be hard to book a room here, so if you want to stay at Ryokan Sanga Kyushu, book early.

Address: 6961-1 Manganji, Minamioguni, Aso District, Kumamoto 869-2402, Japan

Kurokawa Onsen Shinmei-kan

For the best Ryokan Kurokawa Onsen, many people vote for the 250-year-old Kurokawa Onsen Shinmei Kan, which can be considered a landmark ryokan in Kurokawa Onsen. The Shinmeikan is located in the center of the hot spring town, along the Tanohara River, and features the cave hot spring. It is said to have been hand-carved by the owner of the hotel over a period of 13 years and is very mysterious. Many people take pictures of Shinmei Bridge, a popular filming location for Kurokawa Onsen. Famous for its cave hot springs, Shinmeikan attracts many bathers because of its old-fashioned atmosphere and its location in the middle of a bustling hot spring town. Inside the cave, there are only a few yellowish lights and it is very long and narrow. You will feel very peculiar when you find a corner against the wall in the cave hot spring and soak in the hot spring water.

Address: Japan, 〒869-2400 Kumamoto, Aso District, 南小国町黒川温泉

Yamabiko Ryokan

It takes two hours to take the Kyushu Odan Bus from Kumamoto to Kurokawa Onsen. It takes about 8 minutes to walk from the Kurokawa Onsen bus station to Yamabiko Ryokan. Yamabiko Ryokan is a relatively large hotel in Kurokawa. It has 6 family baths, one large bath for men and one for women, and another for Furo bath. Except for the Furo bath, all other baths in the Yamabiko Ryokan Kurokawa are open 24 hours a day. Each of the 6 family hot springs has its own characteristics. Kurokawa Onsen Yamabiko Ryokan has 19 rooms, all equipped with air conditioning, refrigerator, TV, and free WiFi. The bathrooms provide bidets and hairdryers. Conveniences in the Yamabiko Ryokan include safes, and housekeeping is provided daily.

Address: 6704 Manganji, Minamioguni, Aso District, Kumamoto 869-2402, Japan

Kurokawa Onsen Oyado Noshiyu

Compared with Yamabiko Ryokan, Kurokawa Onsen Oyado Noshiyu is more primitive and quiet, more like a wealthy family in ancient Japan. The moment you walk in the door, it's like traveling back to an old time. The smoke rises up from the lush greenery in the garden, making it feel like a fairytale. There are only 11 rooms in Kurokawa Onsen Oyado Noshiyu, which are relatively scattered and have good privacy. The open-air hot spring baths of Kurokawa Onsen Oyado Noshiyu are in another courtyard. Although the bath number is less than that of Yamabiko Ryokan, the quality is not inferior. But the most exciting thing is the public open-air bath in the Kurokawa Onsen Oyado Noshiyu, which has a more original atmosphere as if it is an occasional spring in the mountains to be enjoyed directly after being dug out of the pond. Kurokawa Onsen Oyado Noshiyu also has independent private baths and foot baths. After soaking in the hot springs, you can take a walk in the yard by wearing a yukata. The thick green moss that can be seen everywhere speaks of the power of the passage of time in the Kurokawa Onsen Oyado Noshiyu.

Address: 6591-1 Manganji, Minamioguni, Aso District, Kumamoto 869-2402, Japan

KUROKAWASO

KUROKAWASO is also very popular among the Kurokawa Onsen Ryokans. The price seems to be about the same as Yamabiko Ryokan, but more expensive. The environment inside the KUROKAWASO is also very good. It takes 20 minutes to walk to Yamabiko Ryokan from here. The scenery along the way is very stunning. It is recommended to go and have a look without staying at Yamabiko Ryokan. It is considered hiking to help digestion. The small town's path leading to the KUROKAWASO and the Yamabiko Ryokan is full of picturesque.

Address: Japan, 〒869-2402 Kumamoto, Aso District, Minamioguni, Manganji, 6755-1 黒川荘

RYOKAN WAKABA

You can reach Kurokawa Onsen Ryokan Wakaba by walking up the road from the center of the town. The Ryokan Wakaba is close to Kurokawa Station and looks more international. The waiter's English is good, and a lot of foreign tourists choose to stay here. The hotel environment is better and the scenery of the open-air hot spring is great. You can also book a private Onsen time for your own use only. However, the private bath in the Wakaba Ryokan is in a small room without an open-air view at all. There is no need to climb up slop to reach this hotel, and the road is easier to walk.

Address: 6431 Manganji, Minamioguni, Aso District, Kumamoto 869-2402, Japan

Kurokawa Onsen Okunoyu

Okunoyu is a traditional Japanese-style ryokan that features a public bathing area with cave baths and open-air baths, and an abundance of kaiseki cuisine.

Address: 6567 Manganji, Minamioguni, Aso District, Kumamoto 869-2402, Japan

Hotel Kurokawa Onsen

Tucked away in the mountains, Kurokawa Onsen has a slow pace. There are not as many tourists as you might expect, and it is quiet and surrounded by nature. At night, the Kawakami lanterns are lit up, adding to the romance of the place. Choose the best Kurokawa onsen ryokan to stay overnight there to experience the Onsen Hopping Pass. You will have an unforgettable trip to Kurokawa Onsen.

5. Attractions to Explore nearby Kurokawa Onsen

What to do in kurokawa onsen? In addition to experiencing the onsen tour with the Onsen Hopping Pass in Kurokawa Onsen, there are also a lot of stunning views and attractions worthy of exploration.

Suizenji Jojuen Garden: A Tranquil Haven Where Nature and History Seamlessly Intertwine

Suizenji Jojuen Garden in Kumamoto, Japan, was created in 1636 by the Hosokawa clan. This Japanese garden mimics the famous Tokaido Road, featuring miniature landmarks and a backdrop of Mount Aso. Visitors can stroll along winding paths, cross stone bridges, and enjoy a serene atmosphere. The garden includes a pond with colorful koi fish, traditional teahouses, and a charming vermilion bridge. Suizenji Jojuen embodies traditional Japanese garden design, offering a tranquil escape and cultural experience. Its historical significance and aesthetic appeal make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat. The garden's meticulous layout and picturesque setting showcase the artistry and natural beauty that define Japanese gardening.

Address: 8-1 Suizenji Koen, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto, 862-0956, Japan

Hours: Closed at 5:00 PM

Phone: +81 96-383-0074

Nabegataki Falls

Nabegataki Falls: Appreciating the Awe-inspiring Harmony of Water and Nature

Nabegataki Falls is a captivating natural wonder located in Oguni Town, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan. Renowned for its scenic beauty, the waterfall is formed by the Tanohara River cascading over a cliff that spans approximately 10 meters in width. What makes Nabegataki Falls particularly enchanting is its unique curtain-like flow, resembling a delicate veil of water. Surrounded by lush greenery and rugged terrain, the falls offer a picturesque setting, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere for visitors. The viewing platform situated behind the waterfall provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to witness the cascading water from a distinctive perspective. Nabegataki Falls is especially captivating during the autumn months when the surrounding foliage transforms into a vibrant display of red and gold hues. Accessible through well-maintained pathways and offering a perfect blend of nature and tranquility, Nabegataki Falls is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and those seeking a peaceful escape into the heart of Kumamoto's scenic landscapes.

Address: Kurobuchi, Oguni, Aso District, Kumamoto 869-2502, Japan

Phone: +81 967-46-4440

Kumamoto Castle: A Must-visit Destination for History Enthusiasts and Tourists Alike

Kumamoto Castle, a symbol of Japanese history and architectural prowess, graces Kumamoto City with its commanding presence. Constructed in the early 17th century, its distinctive black exterior and elegant turrets exemplify traditional Japanese castle design. Despite enduring earthquakes that caused partial damage, ongoing restoration efforts showcase the resilience of this cultural icon. The castle grounds feature serene gardens, complementing the grandeur of its structure. Kumamoto Castle serves as a testament to Japan's rich heritage, attracting visitors with its historical significance and offering panoramic views of the city. As a revered landmark, it invites exploration into the country's past and stands as a reminder of enduring strength and cultural pride. Kumamoto Castle is also one of the best Sakura viewing spots during the Japanese Cherry Blossom Season.

Kumamoto Castle

Waita Onsen: A Tranquil Hot Spring Destination Celebrated for Its Soothing Thermal Waters and Picturesque Setting

Waita Onsen, located in Kumamoto, Japan, is a tranquil hot spring retreat nestled in a serene natural setting. Surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque landscapes, Waita Onsen offers a rejuvenating experience for visitors seeking relaxation. The soothing hot springs, known for their therapeutic properties, provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. With a peaceful ambiance and scenic beauty, Waita Onsen promises a serene getaway, allowing guests to unwind and immerse themselves in the therapeutic warmth of the healing waters.

Tsuetate Onsen: Immerse Yourself in the Mineral-rich Baths amid the Charming Landscapes

Tsuetate Onsen, situated in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, is a charming hot spring village renowned for its therapeutic waters and traditional ambiance. The onsen boasts a history dating back over 800 years and is nestled in a scenic valley, surrounded by lush greenery and the picturesque Tawarayama Mountain. Visitors can immerse themselves in the restorative baths while enjoying the rustic charm of the wooden ryokans (Japanese inns) that line the streets. Tsuetate Onsen offers a serene retreat, inviting guests to experience the authentic and tranquil atmosphere of a classic Japanese hot spring village.

6. How to Get To Kurokawa Onsen

Kurokawa Onsen is a famous hot spring town located in the Aso region of Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan. To get to Kurokawa Onsen, you may be curious about how to get to Kurokawa Onsen from Kumamoto, bus from Kumamoto to Kurokawa Onsen, Fukuoka to Kurokawa Onsen bus, Hakata station to Kurokawa Onsen, or Aso to Kurokawa Onsen guide. Here you can follow these general instructions to get to Kurokawa Onsen Kyushu Japan. Please note that transportation options may change, so it's advisable to check the latest schedules and information before your trip to Kurokawa Onsen.

●How to Get to Kurokawa Onsen from Fukuoka

To get to Kurokawa Onsen from Fukuoka, you can take a combination of train and bus. Here's a step-by-step guide to the Fukuoka to Kurokawa Onsen:

From Fukuoka to Kumamoto:

Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Hakata Station in Fukuoka to Kumamoto Station. The journey takes approximately 40-50 minutes.

From Kumamoto to Kurokawa Onsen:

From Kumamoto Station, take a local train on the JR Kyushu Hohi Line to Higo-Ozu Station. The train ride typically takes around 2 hours.

From Higo-Ozu Station, take a bus to Kurokawa Onsen. The bus ride takes approximately 40-60 minutes, depending on the specific bus and schedule.

●Fukuoka Airport to Kurokawa Onsen

Fukuoka Airport to Hakata Station:

Take the subway or a taxi from Fukuoka Airport to Hakata Station. The subway ride takes around 5-10 minutes.

Hakata Station to Kumamoto Station:

From Hakata Station, take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kumamoto Station. The Shinkansen journey takes approximately 40-50 minutes.

Kumamoto to Kurokawa Onsen:

From Kumamoto Station, take a local train on the JR Kyushu Hohi Line to Higo-Ozu Station. The train ride takes about 2 hours.

From Higo-Ozu, you'll need to take a bus to Kurokawa Onsen. The bus ride typically takes around 40-60 minutes.

●Bus from Fukuoka to Kurokawa Onsen

Fukuoka to Aso Cuddly Dominion:

Take a highway bus from Fukuoka to Aso Cuddly Dominion. This is a popular stop for buses heading towards Kurokawa Onsen. The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours.

Aso Cuddly Dominion to Kurokawa Onsen:

From Aso Cuddly Dominion, you can take a local bus to Kurokawa Onsen. The bus ride takes about 1 hour, depending on the specific schedule.

●How Far is Kurokawa Onsen from Tokyo

The distance from Tokyo to Kurokawa Onsen is quite substantial, and the most practical way to travel is by using the Shinkansen (bullet train) and other local transportation options. Here's a rough transportation guideline for you to experience both Tokyo Onsen and Kurokawa Onsen:

Tokyo to Kumamoto:

Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Kumamoto Station. The journey takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, depending on the specific Shinkansen type and route.

Kumamoto to Kurokawa Onsen:

From Kumamoto, you can take a local train on the JR Kyushu Hohi Line to Higo-Ozu Station.

After reaching Higo-Ozu, you'll need to take a bus to Kurokawa Onsen. The bus ride typically takes around 40-60 minutes.

In total, the travel time from Tokyo to Kurokawa Onsen can vary but is likely to be around 6 to 8 hours, depending on factors such as the specific Shinkansen, waiting times, and the bus schedule.

●Aso Station to Kurokawa Onsen

Aso Station to Higo-Ozu:

Take the JR Kyushu Hohi Line from Aso Station to Higo-Ozu Station. The train ride takes approximately 30-40 minutes.

Higo-Ozu to Kurokawa Onsen:

From Higo-Ozu Station, take a bus to Kurokawa Onsen. The bus ride typically takes around 40-60 minutes, depending on the specific bus and schedule.

Choose the suitable transportation to get to Kurokawa Onsen according to your location and your itinerary. If you hope to enjoy a relaxing and convenient journey there, you can also contact us for a tailor-made trip, guaranteeing a private car and a private guide.

Conclusion

If you are looking forward to a unique Onsen trip in Japan, you must not miss Kurokawa Onsen Town in Kyushu. Enjoy soaking in the soothing baths that are full of natural charm and built along the valley and relaxing in the high-quality hot springs that are constantly gushing out. Forget about the tour fatigue by embarking on your private tailor-made Kurokawa Onsen itinerary.

●More Japan Onsen Guides to Different Hot Spring Destinations You May Like to Read:

>>>Hot Springs in Japan with Tattoos

>>>Best Onsens in Japan

>>>Hakone Onsen Guide

>>>Kyoto Onsen Guide

>>>Osaka Onsen Guide

>>>Fuji Kawaguchiko Onsen Guide

>>>Shibu Onsen Guide

>>>Nozawa Onsen Japan Guide

>>>Beppu Japan Onsen Guide

>>>Takaragawa Onsen Japan Guide

>>>Noboribetsu Onsen Guide

>>>Hokkaido Onsen Guide

>>>Takayama Onsen Guide

>>>Spa World Osaka Guide

>>>Solaniwa Onsen Osaka Guide

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