Located in the Minami-Aso Village of Kumamoto Prefecture (Tarayama Onsen area), Ryokan Minawa is an exclusive, luxury inn featuring just 10 private villas spread across a spacious 3,000-tsubo (approx. 2.4-acre) property.
1. Takamori Spring Water Tunnel Park
A Cool, Underground World of Pure Water
Created from an abandoned railway tunnel project, Takamori Spring Water Tunnel Park offers a unique underground experience.
Year-Round Comfort
The temperature inside remains around 17°C (62.6°F) all year, making it a natural air-conditioned haven.
Abundant Springs
Walking inside, you’ll see a stream flowing with roughly 32 tons of water per minute.
Highlights
Don’t miss the “Water Pearl” illusion fountain and seasonal light-up events like the Tanabata Festival (July) and Christmas illuminations.
2. Takamori Dengaku no Sato
Authentic Local Cuisine Around a Charcoal Hearth
Located in Takamori Town, Dengaku no Sato is a famous restaurant where you can taste “Takamori Dengaku,” a traditional food culture dating back to the Kamakura period.
Tsurunoko Taro Potatoes
A local specialty taro potato that becomes exceptionally soft, sweet, and fluffy when slow-roasted over charcoal.
Charcoal Skewers & Miso
Skewers of taro, tofu, river fish (Yamame), and seasonal vegetables are roasted around a traditional irori (hearth) and coated with rich, aromatic sweet-and-savory mountain pepper (sansho) miso.
Rustic Ambiance
Dine inside historic thatched-roof cottages surrounded by Aso’s peaceful scenery.
3. Shirakawa Water Source
One of Japan’s Top 100 Renowned Water Springs
Shirakawa Water Source is one of the primary origins of the Shirakawa River, flowing right out of the Aso Caldera.
Purity & Taste
Producing 60 tons of water per minute at a constant 14°C (57°F), the water is so clear you can see right to the sandy bottom. It is mild, refreshing, and safe to drink straight from the source.
Onsen Sommelier Tip
Pure, mineral-balanced water is the best way to rehydrate after soaking in hot springs, helping to enhance circulation and skin hydration.
Shirakawa Yoshimi Shrine
Located right next to the spring, this ancient shrine honors the deity of water, making it a peaceful power spot.
4. Ryokan Minawa
A Luxury Private Retreat with In-Room Onsen Baths
For accommodations, Ryokan Minawa in the Minami-Aso area offers the ultimate sanctuary.
100% Private Detached Villas
With only 10 guest rooms spread across a spacious 3,000-tsubo property, every villa features its own 100% free-flowing outdoor and indoor hot spring bath.
Soft “Toro-yu” Thermal Waters
The gentle, simple thermal spring water soothes the skin and calms the nervous system without causing bath fatigue.
Noh Stage Views
Enjoy exquisite Kumamoto dining, including Akaushi beef and seasonal delicacies, in private rooms facing an illuminated traditional Noh stage.
Recommended Travel Route
１．Explore the cool depths of Takamori Spring Water Tunnel Park.
２．Savor a slow-roasted charcoal lunch at Takamori Dengaku no Sato.
３．Rehydrate and refresh your spirit at Shirakawa Water Source.
４．Check in at Ryokan Minawa to unwind in your private hot spring bath.
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