They Dug It Themselves!? A Secret Hot Spring Cave in Amakusa, Kyushu
Just about an hour and a half from Kumamoto City by train or bus, you’ll find Amakusa — a peaceful seaside getaway known for its stunning ocean views and super fresh seafood. Back in the days when Christianity was banned in Japan, many hidden Christians quietly kept their faith here, and you can still feel that history today in places like Sakitsu Village, a World Heritage site. One unique spot you won’t want to miss in Amakusa is Yurakutei, a cozy inn famous for its incredible 33-meter-long cave hot spring — and get this, the owner’s family dug it out! It’s one of the rare places in Japan where you can soak in two different natural hot spring sources: a reddish “Aka-yu” and a milky white “Shira-yu.” Nearby, there’s also Yumigahama Beach, perfect for a relaxing walk by the sea breeze. If you’re craving beautiful nature, unique hot springs, and a little taste of Japan’s hidden Christian history, definitely add Amakusa to your travel list!
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Feel the Difference: Two Unique Hot Springs Inside a Hand-Dug Cave!
The owner of Yurakutei recommends switching between their two natural hot springs — Aka-yu, a carbonated reddish spring, and Shira-yu, a silky smooth milky white spring. Start with the Aka-yu to warm your body to the core and clear out your pores. Then, slip into the Shira-yu for soft, glowing skin you’ll want to show off!
High-Temp, Cloudy Waters! Warming Aka-yu Inside a Massive Cave Bath
The Aka-yu is a rich, cloudy carbonated spring, enjoyed inside a huge cave bath surrounded by rock walls and ceilings. It’s known for its deep warmth and ability to cleanse your skin while easing away fatigue. The source was damaged in the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake, but after a year and a half of restoration, it came back even stronger in 2018 with an even higher concentration of carbon dioxide (the carbonation). Now, you can soak in Aka-yu in the indoor bath, outdoor bath, and cave bath alike!
Silky-Smooth Shira-yu: The Beauty Bath That Leaves Your Skin Glowing
The Shira-yu is a gently alkaline, milky spring with a silky, velvety texture. Soak in its lukewarm waters and you’ll feel your skin getting smooth, hydrated, and unbelievably soft. Locals call it a “beauty bath”, and once you try it, you’ll see why! Just be careful though — the natural minerals give the bath floor a bit of a slippery feel.
Taste the Best of Amakusa: Fresh Seafood Full Course Feasts
Meals at Yurakutei are all about fresh, local seafood from Amakusa’s waters. Every dish is made with seasonal catches and organic veggies from the inn’s own garden. Depending on the season, you might enjoy delicacies like spiny lobster, abalone, or a juicy steak. The portions are generous, so get ready to eat your heart out and leave with a happy, full stomach!
Access
| Address | 5190-2 Ōyanomachikami, Kamiamakusa City, Kumamoto Prefecture |
|---|---|
| Official website | http://yurakutei.jp/ |
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