The unpretentious Takeo hot spring town

#SeptemberGoodSpots2025 Takeo Onsen, located in Takeo City, Saga Prefecture, Japan, is famous for its alkaline "Beauty Hot Springs." The hot spring area is a 10-15 minute walk from the train station. The entrance to Takeo Onsen is the vermilion "Takeo Onsen Tower Gate," designed by the renowned architect Kingo Tatsuno. We skipped the three famous hot springs and found a small, historic-looking onsen near the tower gate. It was our first time seeing a coin-operated machine where we could select the desired bathing temperature. Of course, there were gender-specific restrictions! After soaking in the hot springs, we headed to Takeo Shrine, a simple little shrine with a 1,200-year history. Behind the shrine stands a large camphor tree. It was there that I stumbled upon a snake, which scared me to death! The Takeo Library in town is a collaboration between a well-known bookstore chain and a cafe. Although it's a complex, the interior is stylishly designed, with books arranged up to the ceiling and the display truly memorable. My mother and I spent the afternoon relaxing here, enjoying the aroma of books, coffee, and the air conditioning, all while avoiding the scorching autumn heat outside!