2025 Unzen Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in October)

🍁 As autumn deepens, the 'Red Leaf Hunt' finale in Kyushu pushes this color feast to a climax. - 【Tour Highlights】 One of the largest red leaf lighting events🔮Mifuneyama Rakuen lighting One of the three major red leaf scenic spots🍁Yabakei autumn scenery One of the new three major night views🌇Kitakyushu Sarakurayama night view Mobile landscape cafe🚉Coastal CAFE sightseeing train Natural healing gift♨️Unzen/Beppu Hell Hot Springs Intangible cultural heritage🎭Takachiho Night Kagura One of the three major pottery capitals of the world🎎Arita ceramics - 【Encounter on the Way】 ✅Fukuoka｜Kitakyushu Sarakurayama night view, Moji Port old street, Fukuoka Tower ✅Saga｜Mifuneyama Rakuen, Arita Ceramic Park, Autumn Arita Ceramic Festival ✅Nagasaki｜CAFE train, Yushu Teien Shimei Manor, Unzen Hell Valley, Nitta Pass, Sanjuro Garden, Amakusa Dolphins ✅Oita｜Yabakei, Beppu Hell Valley, Yufuin Kinrinko Lake ✅Miyazaki｜Takachiho Kagura, Takachiho Gorge boat tour, Takachiho Shrine - 【Accommodation】 🏡Fukuoka Ritz Carlton｜Overlooking Hakata Bay and the city skyline, creating a secluded space in the bustling city 🏡Sekai Beppu｜Designed by Kengo Kuma, inspired by the dramatic hot spring street to create a joyful atmosphere 🏡Sekai Yufuin｜Designed by Kengo Kuma, placing the hot spring inn in the center of the terraced fields, creating a primitive farmhouse style 🏡Sekai Unzen｜Inspired by Nagasaki culture, blending elements of China, Japan, and the Netherlands, full of exotic charm 🏡Miyasho Takebayashi Tei｜A quiet accommodation surrounded by Mifuneyama, where the courtyard, architecture, and four seasons scenery merge into one 🏡Takachiho Inn Kamiyo｜A hot spring inn hidden in Takachiho Gorge, an excellent choice to experience authentic Japanese hospitality - 【Delicacies】 🐮Saga beef｜Famous for its delicate marble fat and deep and mellow taste 🐎Horse meat dishes｜Known as 'Sakura meat', the temperature of the tongue melts the deliciousness in the mouth 🍜Hakata Ramen｜The origin of Tonkotsu ramen, chewy noodles and rich pork bone broth make up Ichiran 🎏Yatai Village｜Japanese street food stalls, with a collection of delicacies such as oden, dumplings, and yakitori - 【Itinerary Overview】 ✴Kyushu West Line✴ 🍁D1 Red Leaf Spot｜Mifuneyama Rakuen 🍀D2 Japan Pottery Capital｜Arita Ceramic Park, Autumn Arita Ceramic Festival, Ceramic Handmade Experience 🚉D3 Kyushu Coast｜CAFE train, Yushu Teien Shimei Manor 🐬D4 Encounter Dolphins｜Amakusa Dolphins, Nitta Pass, Myoken Peak, Sanjuro Garden 🔥D5 Hell Hot Springs｜Unzen Hell Valley, Fukuoka Yatai Village 👋🏻D6 Farewell Japan｜Happy return trip ✴Kyushu East Line✴ 🎎D1 Japanese Mythology｜Takachiho Kagura 💦D2 Volcano Gorge｜Takachiho Gorge, Takachiho Shrine 🔥D3 Hell Hot Springs｜Beppu Hell Valley, Yufuin 🍁D4 Red Leaf Spot｜Hitome Hakkei, Saruhi Senbon Gorge, Keiseki Garden, Goryo Shrine, Kitakyushu Sarakurayama night view 🏮D5 Century-old Time｜Moji Port old street tour, Fukuoka Yatai Village 👋🏻D6 Farewell Japan｜Happy return trip

We stayed at Akakura Kanko Hotel, a hot spring inn by Hoshino Resorts located in Unzen City, Nagasaki Prefecture, which just opened in November 2022. This post is a room tour. The "special room" is a spacious 85 square meter room with an open-air bath and terrace with a spectacular view of the steam from the hot spring! It's amazing that such a large terrace is in a guest room! By the way, the meals were also very luxurious! #open-air bath in guest room #hot spring inn #resort hotel #luxury hotel #photogenic hotel #breathtaking hotel

We stayed at Akakura Kanko Hotel, a hot spring inn by Hoshino Resorts located in Unzen City, Nagasaki Prefecture, which just opened in November 2022♪ This post is a room tour♪ The room is called "Room with Open-Air Bath", and it has such an interesting name because more than half of the room is dedicated to the room's open-air bath and bathing area♨️ The view of steam rising from the bath is spectacular♪ #Room with Open-Air Bath #Hot Spring Inn #Resort Hotel #Luxury Hotel #Photogenic Hotel #Great View Hotel

Stay at Unzen Kyushu Hotel, the No. 1 hotel in Kyushu, as rated by Ikyu! ✅The steam rising from the "Unzen Jigoku" is right in front of you ✅All rooms have a semi-open-air bath with excellent spring quality♨️ ✅All-you-can-drink drinks in the lounge🍷 ✅A delicious Western-style dinner made with plenty of Nagasaki ingredients🍽 A compact and sophisticated hideaway resort for adults♪ #luxuryhotel #hotspring

#NagasakiTrip ⛩Tachibana Shrine 🗾 529, Chijiwa-machi, Unzen-shi, Nagasaki This shrine is dedicated to Lieutenant Colonel Tachibana. In spring, the 1,000 cherry blossom trees along the approach to the shrine are beautiful. It is famous for the world's largest kadomatsu (New Year's pine decoration), certified by the Guinness Book of World Records. It is an impressive 11 meters in size.

I'm reporting on a relaxing trip to Kyushu! This is Ricopin (@rikopin_travelog) ✈️ . This time I'm introducing "Unzen Kyushu Hotel" located in Unzen City, Nagasaki Prefecture! . [Unzen Kyushu Hotel] #Unzen Kyushu Hotel . Founded in 1917, Unzen Kyushu Hotel was newly renovated and reopened in 2018! . This hotel is located next to Unzen Jigoku and has a great location, but the interior is very stylish✨ . And what's more! There are boats from Amakusa to Unzen, so you can go dolphin watching in Amakusa and stay at the hotel😍 . It's getting cold, so let's warm up in the hot springs~🧖‍♀️♨️ . ●Price Terrace Premier Twin Japanese-Western room with half open-air bath on the 4th floor and terrace From 31,350 yen/person (2 people per room, 1 night, 2 meals included) ※According to Rakuten Travel . ●Access 🚌By bus About 1 hour 20 minutes from JR Isahaya Station Take the bus bound for Unzen from "Isahaya Station" Get off at "Oyama Information Center Mae" 1 minute walk . ●Check-in 15:00 . ●Check-out 11:00 . ●Parking Available, can accommodate 30 cars . ●Address 320 Unzen, Obama-cho, Unzen-shi, Nagasaki 854-0697 ........…………………………………………… . ＊･･･････････････････✈ [Notes] 💡When you go out, please take all necessary precautions against infection and follow the rules to have fun! . 💡Information may change, so please check the official website for the latest information ＊･･･････････････････✈ . ーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーー You can save it and look at it later✅ If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us😉 ーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーーー . #LuxuryHotel

A tourist spot representing Unzen Onsen ♨️ You can enjoy Unzen Jigoku with all five senses! The smell of sulfur, and steam and hot air gushing out from the depths of the earth! The scene of the whole area covered in pure white is truly hell. There is a promenade inside the hell, and you can tour it in about 60 minutes 🚶‍♂️ I recommend the boiled eggs along the way 🥚 #Nagasaki #Unzen #Amazing view #Hot spring #Support tourism #Support tourism #Amazing view

Located in the center of Unzen Onsen town in Nagasaki Prefecture, Unzen Kanko Hotel is the only classic hotel in Kyushu. The building, which incorporates the style of a Swiss mountain lodge, is stately and nostalgic. It is also famous as a gourmet inn, where you can enjoy elaborate French cuisine✨ #Accommodation experience#Support tourism#Gourmet trip

●Name Unzen Jigoku ●Admission fee Free ●Access 90 minutes by car from Nagasaki city 70 minutes by car from Nagasaki Airport ●Points Located in the center of Unzen Onsen town, the smell of sulfur fills the air, and the steam and hot air erupting from the depths of the earth cover the entire area. You can enjoy a foot bath, hot spring eggs, and hot spring lemonade. It is also known as the site of the Christian martyrdom, and a martyrdom monument has been erected. On the way to Unzen, there is also the Catholic Unzen Church, dedicated to Antonio Ishida and the martyrs of Unzen. #Nagasaki #Unzen #Onsen

Embark on a healing journey to Unzen! This hot spring town in Nagasaki Prefecture is shrouded in mist with the lush Unzen-dake Mountain, blending the charm of nature and hot springs. Visiting these 3 must-see spots will fill you with sweetness and help you relax completely~ 🚩Day 1: Hiking Unzen-dake for Stunning Views 📍Address: Ko Kunimicho Hijikuro, Unzen City, Nagasaki Prefecture Start your day with a hike up Unzen-dake! This active volcano is beautiful all year round—azaleas bloom in spring, enjoy the cool greenery in summer, see the mountains covered in red leaves in autumn, and be amazed by the snowy scenery in winter~ The trail is free to access, and bringing snacks for a picnic is a great idea. Just be prepared for some leg soreness after walking a while, so wearing sneakers is recommended🥾 🚩Day 2: Soak in the Hot Spring Paradise of Unzen Onsen 📍Address: Obamacho Unzen, Unzen, Nagasaki After descending, head straight to Unzen Onsen! The sulfur hot springs here are amazing, leaving your skin silky smooth~ The entire hot spring street is filled with Showa-era charm. We recommend staying at the Unzen Kanko Hotel, where their kaiseki cuisine is fantastic! A warm tip: remember to bring a bath towel for your full-body soak, as buying one on-site can be a bit pricey🛁 🚩Day 3: Discover the Mystical Unzen Jigoku (Hell) 📍Address: Obamacho Unzen, Unzen, Nagasaki Strolling through the bubbling geothermal wonderland known as the "Hell" area is truly magical, with steam rising like a fairyland! Be sure to try the hot spring eggs and hell-steamed vegetables—they taste surprisingly good~ The best lighting for photos is at 9 a.m., so bring light-colored clothes for better shots📷 💡Useful Tips: 1⃣ The azalea bloom from March to May is the most beautiful 2⃣ Many shops on the hot spring street only accept cash 3⃣ There is a direct bus from Nagasaki city to Unzen 4⃣ The ground temperature in the Hell area is high, so avoid wearing slippers

📍 First stop: Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Database · Focus: Feel the history, reflect on peace. The exhibits in the pavilion are shocking, remember to remain respectful. · How to get there: · By car: From downtown Nagasaki, about 15 minutes drive. · Navigation settings: Directly set the “Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Database”, which has a parking lot. · Tip: It is recommended to reserve at least 2 hours for careful visits. 📍Stop 2: Colorful Hell Hot Spring (Beppu Hell Tour) · Highlights: Enjoy the natural wonders, must see "Sea Hell" and "Blood Pool Hell"! · How to get there: · Self-drive: Drive directly from the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Database, which takes about 3 hours, making it the longest part of the day, so remember to reserve your time. · Navigation Settings: Set up “Beppu Hellめぐり” (Beppu Hell Tour), there is a large paid parking lot. · Tip: You can buy a Hell Pass to visit multiple Hell Hot Springs at once. 📍 Terminal: Fukuoka Terrace Hotel May Day · Highlights: Super convenient location, modern design, lots of food nearby! · How to get there: · Self-drive: From Colorful Hell Hot Springs, about 2 hours drive. · Navigation settings: Enter the hotel name directly “Terrace Hotel Goichiban”. · Tip: There is parking at the hotel;after dropping off your luggage you can walk to Hakata Canal City or Yatai for dinner to end the day perfectly! Day summary: Rich itinerary, maximum self-driving flexibility! From heavy history to relaxed nature, to city night views, three wishes are fulfilled at once. #KyushuDrivingTour #Nagasaki Must See #Beppu Hell Hot Springs #Fukuoka Hotel Recommendations #How to Get There

Located in the historic hot spring town of Unzen, this onsen ryokan by Hoshino Resorts beautifully blends modern comfort with traditional Japanese charm. The hotel sits amidst Unzen National Park, surrounded by misty mountains and natural hot spring steam rising from the earth — a truly atmospheric retreat. My favorite part? Each room comes with its own private onsen, so you can enjoy a relaxing soak anytime, day or night. It felt so luxurious to unwind in warm mineral-rich waters while listening to the sounds of nature outside. Perfect for anyone looking to slow down, recharge, and savor the serenity of Japan’s onsen culture. ♨️✨

The Unzen Jigoku Meguri is a mystical spot enveloped in the scent of sulfur and steam♨️ Walking through hot spring pools dyed red or blue and rocky areas with rising steam, you'll be overwhelmed by the power and mystery of nature. Don't miss trying the local specialties like hot spring eggs and steamed buns🥚 As you stroll, listen closely to the bubbling of the hot springs and the chirping of birds, offering a unique experience that engages all your senses. It's a perfect trip to feel the power of the earth and nature in a special way! After a long walk, enjoy a day bath at Kojigoku Onsen♨️ The milky white waters will warm your entire body.

This is a private hotpot restaurant. It's clean and the service is great. The meat is delicious and I ended up eating too much.

Under the rose-colored sunset in Unzen City, enjoy a private hot spring paradise shrouded in mist♨️ 💖 Hot spring paradise! A dreamy fairyland wrapped in mist! 📍 Address: Obama Town, Unzen City, Nagasaki Prefecture 🚌 Transportation tip: Take the Shimabara Railway bus from Isahaya Station to Unzen Station, about 80 minutes 🌸 Must-visit spots: 1️⃣ Unzen Jigoku Valley: A natural wonder with swirling sulfur steam! Stroll along the wooden boardwalk and feel the power of geothermal vents. At dusk, the hot spring mist and sunset blend into a rose-colored painting~ 📸 Tips: The Jigoku Valley observation deck is the perfect spot to capture steam and sunset; recommended to visit around 5:30 PM 2️⃣ Furuyu Motoyu Onsen: A secret hot spring with 400 years of history! The milky white water is rich in minerals, leaving your skin silky smooth after soaking. Don’t forget to try the steamed eggs by the mixed bath pool (super tender!) 🍜 Food recommendations: Unzen Jigoku Steamed Cuisine: Local dishes steamed with hot spring steam, featuring seafood and vegetables in their original flavors Onsen Manju: Red bean paste is super smooth, perfect with matcha 📌 Tips to avoid pitfalls: ▷ Some hot springs require you to bring your own towel (buying on-site is a bit pricey) ▷ Avoid weekend crowds; early morning or evening visits offer a more private experience

Taneto is gaining attention as a place that connects Unzen's nature, people, and lifestyle. Here, you can enjoy meals made with seasonal vegetables and ingredients harvested locally. The menu is not only delicious but also gentle on the body 🥗🍰. The vegetables are organically grown with care for the fields. The interior of the store features a cozy space with the warmth of wood, and the displays and wrapping, which utilize everyday items like newspaper, are environmentally friendly and charming. Taneto also hosts events and workshops, making it a welcoming "living room for everyone" where locals and travelers can gather casually. It's a recommended spot where you can relax and experience the rich nature and culture of Unzen. Be sure to visit when you're in the area! ✨

Among the popular hot springs in Unzen, Kojigoku Onsen is a retro hot springs resort with a nostalgic atmosphere. The milky white waters have a strong sulfur scent and gently warm you from the inside out. The wooden bathhouse is spacious and open, and soaking in the steam is truly a blissful experience.♨️✨ The water is gentle on the skin, and is known for its beauty benefits. Your skin will also feel hydrated after a soak.🩷 Surrounded by the lush, natural beauty of the Unzen mountains, you'll feel like you're leaving your daily life behind and rejuvenating your soul. This is the perfect spot for a relaxing hot spring break, as well as a great place to relax! #Unzen #KojigokuOnsen

📝 Spot Details 📍 **Unzen Jigoku** This is the central geothermal area of Unzen Onsen, located in Obama-cho, Unzen City, Nagasaki Prefecture. Steam and the smell of sulfur rise from more than 30 types of fumaroles and mud volcanoes, creating a hellish scene. --- ⏰ Visiting and access information Free to visit, no admission fee (walking on the promenade is also free) Opening hours: 24 hours in the hell zone (no nighttime illumination) Some facilities, such as foot steaming and the hell workshop, are open from 10:00 to 17:00 Access: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car from Nagasaki City / Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes from Nagasaki Airport Located in the center of the Shimabara Peninsula Geopark, it can also be accessed by public transport, such as the Unzen Onsen bus Parking: Paid parking in Unzen Onsen town (approximately 200 cars / 500 yen per day) is available --- 🌋 Attractions and attractions Hell walking route: You can visit the representative "Daikyokan Hell", "Oito Hell", "Kiyohisa Hell" and other places in about 30 to 60 minutes while walking on the promenade Daikyokan Hell: A powerful spot where the steam blasting out of the fumarole sounds like a "scream" Oito and Kiyoshiro Hell: Known as the site of local legends and Christian martyrdom, you can also feel the traces of history that tell the tragic story to the present day. #Absolutely free travel #Nagasaki tourism #Nagasaki travel #Domestic travel #Tourism #National park #Natural scenery

📝 Spot Details 📍 **Unzen Ropeway** Located at 551 Unzen, Obama-cho, Unzen City, Nagasaki Prefecture, this sightseeing ropeway connects Nita Pass Station to Myokendake Station at an altitude of 1,333 meters. Covering a distance of approximately 500 meters in just 3 minutes, it is a popular spot to enjoy breathtaking natural scenery from above. 🚗 Parking: Nita Pass Parking Lot (approximately 200 spaces / free), accommodates large buses. 📞 Contact: 0957-73-3572 --- ⏰ Operating Hours & Holidays Summer Season (April–October): First ascent at 8:51 AM, last ascent at 5:03 PM / last descent at 5:23 PM (ticket sales until 5:00 PM) Winter Season (November–March): First ascent at 8:51 AM, last ascent at 4:51 PM / last descent at 5:11 PM (ticket sales until 4:50 PM) Holidays: Open year-round (suspended during severe weather) --- 💰 Fees Round Trip: Adults ¥1,500, Children ¥750 (Free for one child under 5 per paying adult) One Way: Adults ¥830, Children ¥420 Group Discounts: 10% off for groups of 15 or more / 20% off for groups of 31 or more.

📝 Spot Details 📍 Iwado Shrine This shrine is located at 2322 Nishigocho, Mizuho-cho, Unzen City, Nagasaki Prefecture, in a quiet forest at the source of the water at the northern foot of Mount Unzen. It is affectionately known to locals as "Iwado-san." 🚗 Access About 40 minutes by car from Shimabara Station and about 25 minutes by car from Unzen Onsen. There is a small parking lot at the entrance to the shrine, and when it is full, you can also use a larger space about 200m down. --- ⏰ Visiting and worship information Opening hours: Free to visit Closed days: Open all year round Admission fee: Free (a first offering fee is required for goshuin and omamori) Time required: About 5 minutes walk (about 300m) from the entrance to the shrine to the main hall, then you can climb 51 steps or use the slope. #Absolutely free trip #Nagasaki sightseeing #Nagasaki trip #Domestic travel #Sightseeing #Shrine tour #World of Ghibli

📝 Spot Details 📍 Nagasaki Castella Land 🏷️ Located at 5864 Otsu, Ainocho, Unzen City, Nagasaki Prefecture, this facility includes the headquarters of Izumiya's Castella factory and a direct sales store. It offers a stunning view of Tachibana Bay and features Castella, local gourmet food, and various experiences. 🚗 Parking: Available (approximately 300 spaces, spacious and convenient) --- ⏰ Business Hours & Holidays Store (Souvenirs): 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM Restaurant: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM Takeout: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (some sources indicate until 4:30 PM) 📅 Holidays: Open year-round --- 🍰 Experiences and Highlights Factory Tour: Observe part of the manufacturing process through glass windows without needing a reservation. Be sure to check out the craftsmanship of the 'foam cutting' process. Store Area: Offers a wide range of products, from classic Nagasaki Castella to premium varieties like Gosan-yaki, Castella sweets, local confectioneries, and frozen gourmet items like Champon. Restaurant: Enjoy dishes like Champon, Sara Udon, Turkish Rice, and Castella pudding while taking in the breathtaking views of Tachibana Bay and Mount Unzen Fugendake. Scenic Spots: Features Instagram-worthy attractions such as the 'Sea-viewing Toilet' and 'Green Breeze Garden.'

🌸 "What's it like to soak in a live volcano crater? The surreal summer of Mount Unzen in Nagasaki!" 📍 --- 📝 Story Highlights (Sectioned + Emoji Galore) 1️⃣ 【The Legend of Mount Unzen】🌋 > This "Hell Volcano" in Nagasaki shocked the world with its 1991 eruption, but now it’s a paradise for hot spring lovers! ♨️ Wander through "Unzen Hell Valley," where sulfur steam swirls like a mystical realm (hold your nose～👃💨), and watch bubbling hot springs that seem like the Earth is breathing! 2️⃣ 【Must-Do Experiences】📸 - 🚠 Cable Car to the Summit · Overlooking the Volcanic Lake Ride the "Unzen Ropeway" to Myōken Peak for a 360° view of the azure Nita Lake + volcanic terrain. On clear days, you can even spot Shimabara Bay! (Photo tip: Hold onto your hat—it’s windy up there! 👒💨) - ♨️ Hell Steam Kitchen · Hot Spring Eggs Cook seafood and eggs with geothermal steam! 🍳🦐 Try the "Yunosato" restaurant—their runny hot spring egg rice bowl is a must! - ⛩️ Unzen Shrine · Blessed by the Volcano Get a "volcano safety charm"🔖. The vermilion shrine against the sulfur mountains is breathtaking! 3️⃣ 【Hotel Picks】🏨 > Highly recommend "Unzen Kankō Hotel"—rooms with direct access to open-air hot springs, perfect for stargazing while soaking🌠! Book on Ctrip for a "volcanic special dinner" set featuring Nagasaki wagyu beef + hell-steamed veggies🥩🍆, starting at just ¥1,000 per person! 4️⃣ 【Pro Tips】⚠️ - The sulfur area smells strong—bring a mask if sensitive😷 - Summer averages 25°C (77°F), but UV rays are fierce☀️➡️ Pack sunscreen + sunglasses🕶️! - Limited bus schedules—opt for a private car or Ctrip day tour🚗 --- 🌟 Engage with Us "Would you dare to try a volcanic hot spring? 👇 Show us your ‘hell selfie’ in the comments!"

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip ♨️Power welling up from the depths of the earth! A trip to stimulate the five senses at Unzen Jigoku🔥 "Unzen Jigoku" in Unzen City, Nagasaki Prefecture is a hot spring area dotted with more than 30 fumaroles🌋 The smell of sulfur and the sight of white smoke rising is just like "hell". The names, such as "Kiyosana Jigoku" and "Daikyokan Jigoku", are also very impactful! It is a historic place where Christians were once martyred⛪ I enjoyed a tour of the hells for about 2 hours, enjoying the foot steaming experience and hot spring eggs🥚♨️ The trick to conquering is to "visit in comfortable shoes and in the cool morning hours" + "plan your route while looking at the map"👟 There are also day-trip hot springs and cafes in the area, so you can enjoy both healing and stimulation at the same time🍵 Access is about 1 hour 25 minutes by Shimatetsu bus from JR Isahaya Station🚌 By car, it is about 1 hour 20 minutes from Isahaya IC. Parking is available for 300 to 500 yen per visit🚗 Perfect for couples, solo travelers, and those looking for a free trip! Please enjoy a unique experience where you can feel the power of nature and the weight of history🌿 Overseas travel #couple trip #solo trip #absolutely free trip #Unzen hell #Nagasaki trip #hot spring hell tour #foot steaming experience #history and nature trip

We made a quick stop at Aino Observation Deck during our road trip around the Unzen area, and it turned out to be a quiet little gem. It’s not a major tourist attraction, but the views from up there were unexpectedly beautiful and peaceful. The deck is located along the mountain road, and there’s a small parking area nearby, which made it really convenient. After a short walk up, we were greeted with a wide, open view overlooking the Ariake Sea and the surrounding countryside. On a clear day, you can even see as far as Kumamoto across the water. The air was crisp and clean, and the entire area felt calm and refreshing—perfect for a short breather. There aren’t any big facilities or cafés here, so it’s more of a scenic stop than a destination on its own. But if you’re already driving through the area, especially on your way to or from Unzen Onsen or Shimabara, it’s definitely worth pulling over for a few minutes. We took some great photos and just stood for a while taking in the landscape. It’s one of those places that reminds you to slow down and enjoy the journey. Overall, Aino Observation Deck isn’t flashy, but it offers a peaceful moment and a scenic reward that’s worth the short detour. #summervacay #AinoObservationDeck #UnzenViews #HiddenGemsJapan #AriakeSeaViews #KyushuScenery #ScenicStop #RoadTripJapan #JapanViewpoints #UnzenTravel #SereneJapan #MountainViews #SlowTravelJapan #OffTheBeatenPath #ShimabaraDrive #NatureInJapan #japan #japantrip #kyushu #kyushutrip

We visited Unzen Jigoku on a cool misty morning, and it honestly felt like stepping into another world. The thick white steam rising from the ground, the smell of sulfur hanging in the air, and the bubbling, hissing earth beneath our feet—it was eerie, fascinating, and beautiful all at once. Unzen Jigoku is a collection of steaming geothermal vents spread out over a walkable area just a few minutes from the main onsen town. Wooden boardwalks wind through the sulphuric fields, making it easy to explore. Along the way, we passed various “hells” with dramatic names like “Oito Jigoku” and “Seishichi Jigoku,” each spewing steam more furiously than the last. It was fun reading the legends and stories tied to each one. There’s also a rich history here—this place was once a site where early Christians were persecuted during the Edo period, and some signs and monuments along the way reflect that dark chapter. What stood out most was how raw and natural everything felt. You can get really close to the vents—close enough to feel the warmth and hear the steam roar out of the earth. It’s a completely different vibe from the more polished tourist spots. And despite the name, “hell” felt oddly peaceful. Maybe because of the mountain setting and fresh air. There were even eggs being steamed in the natural heat, which made for a fun and tasty little snack break. We took our time walking the loop, soaking in the atmosphere (and some sulfur), and snapping lots of photos. If you’re visiting Unzen Onsen or anywhere nearby, this is definitely a must-see. It’s dramatic, educational, and totally unique to Kyushu. #summervacay #UnzenJigoku #KyushuTravel #UnzenHell #VolcanicJapan #SulfurSprings #JapanOnsenTown #HiddenKyushu #UnzenOnsen #SteamyAdventure #GeothermalWonder #MysticalJapan #JapanNatureSpots #UnzenVibes #UniqueJapan #HistoricHotSprings #japan #japantrip #kyushu #kyushutrip

Unzen Jigoku, located in Unzen City, Nagasaki Prefecture, is a hot spring area with a history spanning approximately 1,300 years. Its origins trace back to the Nara period when the monk Gyoki established Manmyoji Temple on Mount Onsen. Today, it is designated as Japan's first national park. The distinctive milky-white sulfur springs are cherished by many for their reputed skin-enhancing benefits. In the Jigoku (hell) area, visitors can marvel at the rising steam and the bubbling sounds of the hot springs, truly capturing the essence of its "hell" moniker. Scattered across the area are around 30 Jigoku spots, such as "Daikyokan Jigoku" and "Oito Jigoku," each with its own sorrowful legends and historical significance. Within the Jigoku area, there are rest spots like "Unzen Jigoku Foot Steam" and "Unzen Jigoku Workshop," where visitors can enjoy hot spring eggs. The warm ground also attracts local cats, offering a soothing and heartwarming experience. Unzen Jigoku is a valuable destination where one can feel the power of nature while learning about history and culture. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the area.

🛁 Unzen Yunosato Onsen (Unzen Yunono Sato Onsen) Unzen Yunono Sato Onsen is a day-use hot spring facility located in Unzen City, Nagasaki Prefecture, where you can relax in a tranquil environment surrounded by nature. ♨️ Features Variety of Baths: Enjoy a range of baths including open-air baths, indoor baths, and saunas. Spring Quality: The hot spring contains sulfur, which is gentle on the skin and offers a relaxing effect. On-Site Facilities: The facility includes rest areas and dining options, making it suitable for extended stays. 🗺️ Access It is about a 10-minute drive from Unzen City. If using public transportation, it is within walking distance from the Unzen Onsen bus stop. 💡 Recommended Ways to Enjoy Morning Bath: The facility opens early in the morning, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful soak during the quiet morning hours. Local Cuisine Lunch: Savor dishes made with local ingredients at the on-site dining area. --- Unzen Yunono Sato Onsen is a perfect spot to enjoy the natural beauty and hot springs of Unzen on a day trip. Be sure to stop by during your visit to Unzen!

Located about 15 minutes by car from Unzen Onsen, Kiku is a set meal restaurant that has been loved by locals for many years. The interior of the restaurant has a calm atmosphere with the warmth of wood, and there are counter seats and table seats, making it a space that is easy to use whether you are alone or in a group. We recommend the daily set meal and the set meal using fresh local fish. In particular, the boiled fish and grilled fish are characterized by a gentle seasoning that makes the most of the flavor of the ingredients, and they go well with rice. In addition, the set meal comes with a small side dish and miso soup, so you can enjoy a balanced meal. All the dishes, which use plenty of local ingredients, are homely and warm, and you can enjoy the taste of Nagasaki. Kiku is located a little away from the tourist spots, but in return you can enjoy the unique local taste and atmosphere that you cannot experience in places crowded with tourists. It is a heartwarming restaurant where you can also enjoy interacting with local people. If you visit Nagasaki, be sure to enjoy the local taste at Kiku. #EnjoyJapan