Ryokan Kounoyu in Kurokawa Onsen

Kurokawa Onsen Information Center
"Kaze-no-Ya"

Located in the center of Kurokawa Onsen, this information center has a large parking area and public restrooms. Visitors can get information on same-day room availability, directions, local facilities, and the Nyuto Tegata (Onsen-Hopping Pass). The center also sells yomogi shampoo, conditioner, body wash, towels, and other items used at ryokan throughout Kurokawa Onsen. Kurokawa Onsen maps and brochures for individual ryokan are also available.

Weekdays: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM
Weekends & Holiday Eves: 9:00 AM–7:00 PM
Tel: +81-(0)967-44-0076

Website Map

Onsen Hopping Pass

With the Onsen Hopping Pass (Nyuto Tegata), you can enjoy the open-air baths at three different ryokan within its six-month validity period. The Kurokawa Onsen Association also holds various events where visitors can receive certificates, Kurokawa Onsen goods, accommodation vouchers, and other prizes.

■ About the Nyuto Tegata ■
The Nyuto Tegata is made from thinned Oguni cedar by local senior residents. Approximately 120,000 to 200,000 passes are issued each year. Proceeds from their sales are used to improve the streetscape of Kurokawa Onsen and support initiatives such as shared setta sandals and umbrellas, as well as the introduction of environmentally friendly soap and shampoo. The Nyuto Tegata also helps bring the ryokan of Kurokawa Onsen together in their efforts to support and promote the hot spring area.

Price: 1,500 yen

Streets of Kurokawa Onsen

Surrounded by lush greenery, Kurokawa Onsen carefully preserves a traditional streetscape that evokes the charm of old Japan.
Many visitors enjoy strolling through the hot spring town in yukata, with their Onsen Hopping Pass (Nyuto Tegata) hanging around their necks.

Jizo-do

Jizo-do is located at the bottom of Igo-zaka, in the center of Kurokawa Onsen. Children in Kurokawa grow up hearing the story of the Jizo statue, which is said to be the origin of Kurokawa Onsen. The story is displayed in front of Jizo-do, so be sure to read it when you visit. Many visitors also hang their Nyuto Tegata here like ema, traditional wooden prayer plaques found at Japanese shrines and temples.

Map

Jizo-yu

Jizo-yu, one of Kurokawa Onsen's original hot spring baths, is located across the road from Jizo-do. Jizo-yu is a communal bath for local residents. From children to the elderly, people in Kurokawa still gather here to bathe and socialize, preserving the traditional spirit of close-knit community life.

Bathing Fee: 200 yen

Map

Lovers' Hill

Hiranodai Kogen Observatory is located in Hiranodai, a short distance from the center of Kurokawa Onsen. From the observatory, visitors can enjoy beautiful panoramic views stretching from the Kuju Mountains to Mt. Aso. This scenic spot has been designated as a "Lovers' Sanctuary" in Japan.

■ Parking Available

Map

Nabegataki Falls

Nabegataki Falls is a beautiful, wide waterfall located in Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture. It is famous for the spacious area behind the falls, where visitors can walk behind the cascading water and enjoy the view from the other side. In spring, the waterfall is illuminated from behind, creating an especially beautiful and enchanting sight.

Map

Fukuroku

Fukuroku is a general goods shop located along Igo-zaka. It offers colorful towels and bath towels in unique designs, Japanese-made tenugui hand towels, including original Kurokawa Onsen designs, as well as handmade soaps and other bath amenities. The shop also sells small items made from traditional Japanese fabrics and bags made from linen.

Hours: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM
Tel: +81-(0)967-44-0296

Map

Patisserie Roku

As you walk down Igo-zaka toward Jizo-yu, the gentle aroma of freshly baked sweets fills the air. This small pastry shop is a tempting place to stop by while enjoying onsen hopping or shopping around Kurokawa Onsen.

Hours: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM
Tel: +81-(0)967-48-8101