Kyushu Hot Springs – Super Cheap Japan

Ibusuki

Ibusuki (指宿) is a great day-trip location from Kagoshima, most famous for hot sand baths. It is a great location for flower viewing and coastline hot springs. It is also a good spot to take the ferry to Yakushima. Budget travel tips When you arrive, head into the Tourist Information Center in the station. TheyContinue reading “Ibusuki”

Yakushima

Yakushima (屋久島) is a World Heritage listed subtropical island in southern Kyushu. It is usually accessed from Kagoshima and is a great way for tourists to get away from the bustling and busy streets of most Japanese cities. Budget travel tips Buses go every hour our so, but be sure to check your bus timesContinue reading “Yakushima”

Yufuin

Yufuin (由布院) is Beppu’s little sister, a smaller and quieter hot spring town with a bit more class and sophistication. While Yufuin has many tourists these days, the long shopping district full of interesting foods and stunning country side stop it from feeling like a tourist trap (which some say of Beppu!). Full of cheapContinue reading “Yufuin”

Kurokawa Onsen

Kurokawa Onsen (黒川温泉), literally meaning Black River Hot Spring, is a facinating mountain area densely filled with hot springs. The water has a dark hue and is known through Japan. The town itself is very traditional and old fashioned, with few concrete building and a laid-back atmosphere. Budget travel tips A great place to stopContinue reading “Kurokawa Onsen”

Beppu

Do you want to experience the most crazy, odd and extreme hot springs in Japan? Beppu (別府) is the place to come. Beppu has the most variety of any hot spring area in western Japan, with all types of water properties and minerals. Budget travel tips For the Eight Hells, get a combination ticket forContinue reading “Beppu”

Kagoshima

Kagoshima (鹿児島) is a large city in southern Kyushu surrounded by exceptional scenery and often called the “Naples of the Orient”. While there is not loads to do here, it is a nice stop off with a few places to check out. Budget travel tips Spend a cheap night here before going off to theContinue reading “Kagoshima”

Shimabara

Shimabara (島原) is a small castle town, from which tourists can take a ferry to Kumamoto. It has a few attractions to visit while you wait or relax before the very, most famous of which is one of the best castles in Kyushu. Budget travel tips Book early, as budget options are sometimes limited. NotContinue reading “Shimabara”

Obama Hot Spring

Obama (小浜町) is an interesting little town on the route between Nagasaki and Unzen. While it does share its name with a American president and has a cheesy statue of him outside the Tourist Information Center, Obama is a laid back area and a great way to escape the crowds. Budget travel tips Obama isContinue reading “Obama Hot Spring”

Unzen Onsen

Unzen Onsen (雲仙温泉) is the most famous hot spring resort near Nagasaki. After experiencing city life, it’s a great place to spend a few days, relaxing in the baths and going on some interesting walks. Budget travel tips Book as early as possible, as prices can get super pricey. If the weather looks bad, beContinue reading “Unzen Onsen”