Hokkein Onsen Sansou is a hot spring inn located at an elevation of 1,303 meters in the northwest part of Bogatsuru Wetland on the mountainside of the Kuju Mountain Range, making it the highest-altitude hot spring in Kyushu. With a history dating back to 1324 when it was established as Hokkein Hakusuiji Temple of the Tendai Buddhist sect, and beginning operations as a mountain lodge in 1882, it boasts over 140 years of tradition as a historic hot spring mountain lodge.
This location sits at the center of the Kuju Mountain Range, surrounded by majestic peaks exceeding 1,700 meters including Mount Taisenzan, Mount Heijigatake, Mount Nakatake, and Mount Kuju. The Bogatsuru Wetland is Japan's largest intermediate wetland registered under the Ramsar Convention, featuring rare plant communities and opportunities to encounter wild rabbits and birds in this natural treasure trove.
The hot spring's distinctive feature is the spectacular view of the magnificent Kuju Mountain Range from the indoor bath windows. During the blooming season of Miyama-kirishima (mountain azaleas) from late May to June, guests can enjoy the beautiful pink flowers while soaking in the hot spring. In autumn, the mountains are painted with brilliant autumn colors, offering different natural beauty throughout the four seasons.
Known nationwide through the famous song "Bogatsuru Sanka," this beloved destination for mountaineers is considered one of Kyushu's premier hidden hot springs. Accessible only by a minimum 2-hour hike, it truly represents a special hot spring that can only be reached by those who make the journey on foot, earning it tremendous popularity. The rustic yet clean mountain lodge facility is registered with the Japan Association for Hidden Hot Springs and serves as a precious power spot where visitors can enjoy the tranquility and starlit skies impossible to experience in urban areas.
Car Access:
From Oita Expressway "Kokonoe IC" via National Route 210, approximately 20km, 30 minutes to Chojabaru trailhead
From Oita Expressway "Yufuin IC" via Yamanami Highway, approximately 29km, 35 minutes to Chojabaru trailhead
Park at Chojabaru trailhead parking (free), then hike approximately 2 hours (120 minutes)
Public Transportation Access:
From JR Bungo-Nakamura Station, take Kokonoe Town community bus to "Kokonoe Tozanguchi," approximately 55 minutes, then hike 2 hours from the terminal
From JR Beppu Station, take Kamenoi Bus "Kuju Kogen Line" to "Kokonoe Tozanguchi," then hike 2 hours
Take Kyushu Odan Bus (from Beppu, Yufuin, Kumamoto areas) to "Chojabaru Health Center," then hike 2 hours
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Over 1 hour walk
Untouched nature
Historic unique spring