Blessed by volcanic activity, Kagoshima is a hot spring kingdom. With the second-highest number of hot spring sources in Japan, this land surrounded by the Kirishima mountain range is home to numerous secluded hot springs far from civilization. This article introduces 10 hidden hot springs in Kagoshima Prefecture, ranging from naturally occurring wild onsen to historic mountain lodges.
1. Kirishima Onsen Me-no-Yu (Kirishima City)
| Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | Hol | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 00:00 - 24:00 | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ |
| Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | Hol | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 08:00 - 18:00 | 09:00-21:00 | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ |
| Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | Hol | |
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| 10:00 - 14:00 | ◯ | ◯ | × | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ |
| Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | Hol | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:00 - 14:00 | ◯ | 11:30-14:00 | ◯ | ◯ | 11:30-14:00 | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ |
5. Kurinodake Onsen Nanshukan (Yusui Town)
A solitary inn on the mid-slope of Kurinodake, above 1,000m elevation. Named "Nanshukan" because Saigo Takamori visited for hot spring therapy in 1876 (Meiji 9). Also a member of the Japan Secret Hot Springs Association.
The main feature is enjoying three different spring qualities. "Sakura-yu" is acidic simple sulfur spring (pH 2.8) with a milky white, gentle bathing feel. "Take-no-yu" is acidic iron(II/III)-ammonium-sulfate spring (pH 2.2), the strongest acidity on Kagoshima mainland. Gray-clouded with intense ammonia smell. Sulfur-containing mud settles at the bottom of the bath, allowing mud pack enjoyment. "Mushi-furo" is a sauna using natural steam, with both hot and cool rooms.
The specialty is "steamed chicken," a whole chicken steamed with hot spring steam, absorbing spring components to become exquisite. Advance reservation required, but definitely worth trying.
- Spring Quality: Sakura-yu=Acidic simple sulfur spring (pH 2.8), Take-no-yu=Acidic iron-ammonium-sulfate spring (pH 2.2), Mushi-furo=Radon spring
- Source flow-through (no chlorination)
- Baths: Indoor=3 locations (Sakura-yu, Take-no-yu, Mushi-furo)
- Source Temperature: Sakura-yu 61°C, Take-no-yu around 60°C
- Water added, no heating
- Day-use Bathing: Available (1 bath 300 yen, 2 baths 550 yen, 3 baths 700 yen)
- Accommodation: Available
- Operating Period: Year-round (currently temporarily closed per some information, confirmation needed)
6. Fukiage Onsen Kohan-no-Yado Midoriso (Hioki City)
A hidden hot spring inn founded in 1932, nestled on the shore of Midori Pond. A member of the Japan Secret Hot Springs Association, praised by Saito Mokichi, who made it his regular lodging, calling it "divine water." Said to have been visited by Saigo Takamori in early Meiji period. A quiet 8-room inn, the main gate is relocated from a samurai residence.
Two sources are used: private and communal. The private source naturally springs from 70m underground on the premises - colorless transparent water with egg smell and silky feel. Used in open-air baths. The communal source is blackish transparent water, used in indoor and private baths. Enjoying both white and black sulfur springs is Midoriso's unique charm.
A walking path surrounds Midori Pond, where cherry blossoms and autumn leaves can be enjoyed seasonally. Open-air baths are separated by gender, scattered around the pond perimeter. Surrounded by nature in tranquility, time flows leisurely.
- Spring Quality: Private source=Simple sulfur spring (59.6°C, pH 9.0), Communal source=Simple sulfur spring (36.4°C, pH 9.0)
- Source flow-through (no water addition/heating/circulation/chlorination)
- Baths: Indoor=1 each gender, Open-air=1 each gender, Private baths=2
- Day-use Bathing: Available (Main bath 500 yen, Family bath around 700 yen)
- Accommodation: Available
- Operating Period: Year-round (Day-use bathing: Weekdays 10:00-19:30, Sat/Sun/Holidays eve 10:00-15:00)
7. Kirishima Onsen Kawa-no-Yu (Kirishima City)
| Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | Hol | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 00:00 - 24:00 | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ |
| Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | Hol | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 09:00 - 18:00 | × | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ |
9. Wild Hot Spring Groups in Myoken-Anraku Onsen-kyo (Kirishima City)
Several wild hot springs are scattered along the Amorikawa River in Myoken-Anraku Onsen-kyo. While ryokan culture flourishes, wild hot springs where you can enjoy untouched natural hot springs are also popular among enthusiasts.
Descending through bamboo groves along National Route 223 leads to hot springs. The entrance has a gate of unknown origin. The river flowing below the hot spring is a clear stream, with the surrounding wild hot springs enveloped in nature-rich environments.
As natural hot springs, how to approach and enjoy them is up to each bather. Experiencing a modest adventure atmosphere in daily life is also one of wild hot springs' charms.
- Spring Quality: Iron-containing springs, bicarbonate springs, etc. (varies by location)
- Source flow-through
- Bath: Wild hot springs
- Day-use Bathing: Available (free)
- Accommodation: Not available
- Operating Period: Year-round (24 hours)
10. Chikurin-no-Yu (Kirishima City)
A wild hot spring highly praised among hot spring enthusiasts as a miraculous hidden gem, despite being located just 10 minutes by car from Kagoshima Airport along National Route 223. About 3 minutes down through bamboo groves near Shiohitashi Onsen Ryoma Park reveals an otherworldly scene.
The source springs at approximately 50°C, flowing down reddish-brown stained rocks, cooling to a suitable temperature, and pooling in natural rock depressions. The bath is divided into two levels: the upper section is hotter, the lower cooler, allowing bathing according to preference.
The formations created by hot spring minerals are spectacular, like works of art. The water ranges from colorless transparent to yellow-tinted, with a slight carbonated and iron taste. Though an unmanaged wild hot spring, it's regularly maintained with wooden flooring for changing and chairs provided.
The adjacent river is a clear stream where small fish swim. In summer, alternating hot and cold baths can be enjoyed by entering the river.
- Spring Quality: Iron-containing spring (estimated)
- Source flow-through
- Bath: Wild hot spring (2 levels)
- Source Temperature: Approximately 50°C
- Day-use Bathing: Available (free)
- Accommodation: Not available
- Operating Period: Year-round (24 hours)
Precautions When Visiting Kagoshima's Hidden Hot Springs
About Wild Hot Springs
Wild hot springs are natural hot springs without managers. Please note the following:
- Use at your own risk
- Almost no changing rooms or facilities
- Wearing swimsuits or large towels recommended
- Always take garbage with you
- Protect surrounding natural environment
- Water temperature changes greatly with weather and season
- Avoid bathing during high water - dangerous
About Access
- Many hidden hot springs are in mountainous areas with narrow roads
- Rental car use recommended
- Set GPS to facilities near destination
- Be careful of frozen roads in winter
Items to Bring
- Towels (multiple)
- Change of clothes
- Drinking water
- Insect repellent (summer)
- Flashlight (for wild hot springs)
Kagoshima's hidden hot springs are natural treasures created by volcanic blessings. From the primitive charm of wild hot springs to the atmosphere of historic mountain lodges, diverse hot spring experiences are available. Please experience the luxury of refreshing body and mind in tranquil hot springs away from daily hustle and bustle.
*The information is current as of the research date, but there may be errors. Please check official websites for the latest information.
