It was an amazing experience to visit a hot spring which has 300 years of historical background. The 300 year old hot spring known as Kurokawa onsen (黒川温泉) located in Kumamoto prefecture, between Hita and Oita prefecture and about 20km north of Mt Aso.

Kurokawa is a village full of hot springs. Kurokawa in Japanese language means black river. As per the name of the village, Kurokawa is surrounded by beautiful rivers.

There are total of 24 hot springs in this village and all the hot springs are taken care and maintained well by the local people. Tourist can buy Nyuto Tegata (spa coupon), which can be used to visit up to three open-air spa baths (Roten buro). This coupon can be bought in many ryokan (traditional style accomodation) in Kurokawa for 1200yen and it valids up to six months.

There are around 28 ryokan located in this area. Among the spas, Shinmeikan (bath in the cave) and Kounoyu (deep bath) are quite famous in Kurokawa. The depth of Kounoyo hot spring is 130cm. Therefore there are some restrictions for entering this hot spring. The entrance fees for both hot springs are 500yen each.

Kurokawa Onsen is an amazing place, which creates the magical feeling and environment, which gives you great relaxation for both of you soul and mind. It is also a calm place which is away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The buildings here are made of woods and it gives the feeling of staying in nature. It also has a friendly neighborhood and the friendly people in Kurokawa will definitely make you feel to back to this place again.

Kurokawa village was constructed in a way to preserve the originality of the place as well preserving the nature and culture of the village. Tourist also can buy the homemade souvenirs in many souvenir shops along the road. There are also many cafe, restaurants and pottery shops in this village. You should try their local food as well. You will never regret for the money you spend for this place as you will bring back a peaceful mind and relaxed soul.

There are few modes of transportations to visit Kurokawa Onsen. If you are taking train from Hakata, you should get down in Aso station and take Asoyufukogen bus. Early reservation is required for this bus service. Besides, there are also busses depart from Hakata station which goes directly to the Kurokawa onsen. However early reservation (one day before travelling) is recommended. Besides public transport, you also can drive to this place.