Amakusa, a picturesque island group off the west coast of Kyushu, is a hidden gem of Japan’s onsen culture. It’s not only blessed with scenic beauty but also a wealth of hot springs, each with its unique mineral composition. The onsen experience here is enhanced by the enchanting view of Ariake Sea and the lush surrounding mountains. Amakusa’s onsen water is known for its biyo-no-yu (beauty water) quality, rich in sodium and calcium salts, which leaves the skin feeling silky smooth.
The onsen towns of Amakusa, such as Shimoda and Yunoko, offer an authentic, unhurried experience of Japan’s hot spring culture. The traditional inns, or ryokan, here provide not just a place to rest, but an opportunity to immerse in local culture, with their tatami rooms, kaiseki meals, and of course, the onsen baths. The area is also home to the historic Sakitsu Church, a testament to Amakusa’s unique history of hidden Christians, adding another layer to your cultural exploration.
