Kurokawa Onsen is known for its rotemburo (outdoor baths) but if you're ready for something a little bit different, try out the cave onsen of Ryokan Shinmeikan. Passageways carved out of the rock reach back far into the hill; the water in some spots can be as deep as one's waist. The steamy air makes for poor visibilty so caution is needed when moving around the onsen but this is an incredibly unique experience. There are three separate bathing areas, one for women only and two that are mixed gender.
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Cave Onsen of Shinmeikan
A steamy subterranean soak in Kurokawa Onsen
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Information
Kurokawa Onsen, Minamiogunimachi, Aso-gun, Minamioguni-machi Kumamoto Prefecture 869-2400 (Directions)
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Anonymous
11 years ago
Interesting place for onsen!
It's very unique but you have to be careful, as it's not very well-lit!
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