A Stroll through Kurokawa Onsen

Magical views and local specialities

By Yui Yamaguchi

Community writer

Teragoya rice cracker store - The smell of grilling rice crackers at this shop loosens my purse.

Looking at the riverside inn (Yama no yado Shinmeikan) from the bridge, what a view!

Ryokan Wakaba, with the garden leading to the entrance maintained beautifully.

Tsukemonoya, where you can try before you buy. They sell Aso Takana as well.

You can also explore this town by bicycle.

Goto's sake store, with an excellent selection of Kyushu's alcoholic drinks.

Ramune chilled in a tray of natural spring water & ice outside Goto's sake store.

At Fukuroku, drop in and have a look at the Japanese wraps, towels and other unique items.

Narrow alleys like Igozaka invite you to discover.

At Patisserie Roku, the choux pastry straight out of the oven is being filled with custard cream.

Of course, there is a foot bath (Yamano Yu)!

On the left is Sugi Yohouen, where I learnt about a lot about the benefits of honey from an energetic shop assistant.

Take a break at Shiratamakko, a Japanese sweets shop

A helpful map of Kurokawa Onsen in meticulous detail.

Kurokawa Onsen is the pride and joy of Kumamoto Prefecture, and strolling through this little spa town is one of its many pleasures. I recommend you first get a map from the information center (see photo). Time flies quickly as you take in the many restaurants, cafes, and stores selling pickles, liquor, rice crackers, sweets, ceramics and other local attractions. End your visit at the Ashiyu or foot spa, warming you up and taking your tiredness away.

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Yui Yamaguchi

Community writer

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Mandy Bartok 9 years ago

Ahh, my favorite place in all of Japan. :)

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Mandy Bartok 9 years ago

Planning on coming again in March, Yui. You know we can't stay away!

Bonson Lam 9 years ago

I would love to try some of the freshly grilled rice crackers too!

Yui Yamaguchi Photographer 9 years ago

Bonson, best to eat just grilled crackers.

Victoria Vlisides 9 years ago

Beautiful place. Good to know yet another onsen town. I love the photos with the people biking -- makes me feel like I am there, enjoying the atmosphere.