Kumamoto's Yamanoyu is a quaint, reasonable and perfectly-located ryokan in the heart of Kurokawa Onsen. With only a small number of rooms, the inn feels very private. For the onsen lover, there are a variety to choose from - an outdoor rotemburo, segregated indoor shared baths, and a couple of private indoor baths that can be reserved at no extra cost. The staff is very friendly and meals are impressive. This is an inn that won't disappoint.
- 1 min read
Kumamoto's Yamanoyu Ryokan
A Jewel in Kurokawa Onsen

By Sandra Isaka
Community writer

This 'Wa-modern' room was spacious and very comfortable.

Yamanoyu has a perfect location in the center of town.

There are lovely decorative items in all areas of the inn.

One of the private baths that guests can reserve.

A view of Kurokawa Onsen from the walkway to the ryokan's outdoor onsen baths.

The ladies' outdoor onsen bath.

Some guests eat in small, private rooms; but most enjoy meals in this dining room.

We chose a dinner that centered around an 'irori', a traditional Japanese sunken hearth.

We grilled our own meats, vegetables, tofu, and fish. Delicious!

Kumamoto's mascot, 'Kumamon', greets guests in the morning (on this pressed fish cake).

Breakfast included local specialties and was very tasty.
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Yui Yamaguchi
10 years ago
Nice place to enjoy foods and onsen. I'll stay in a ryokan in Kurokawa Onsen area with my family in May because of Mandy's article, too.
Mandy Bartok
10 years ago
Thanks, Yui! I do love that area. I have tried out almost ALL of the main baths now. It's a good goal to have, I figure. :)
Mandy Bartok
10 years ago
I've stayed at Yamanoyu as well ... I thought the Kumamon etched onto the fishcakes were a cute touch!
Your article was one of the reasons I chose to stay there !
Mandy Bartok
10 years ago
Aww, so great to know people are actually reading them! ;)
5 comments in total
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