Futsukaichi Onsen | Visit Historic Shrines and Discover Local Favorites

Known as “Hakata’s inner retreat,” Futsukaichi Onsen is a hot spring area with excellent access—just about 30 minutes by car from Tenjin or Hakata. Its history dates back over 1,300 years to the Nara period, and it is also celebrated as Kyushu’s oldest hot spring, even appearing in the Manyoshu, Japan’s ancient poetry anthology.

The gentle, skin-friendly waters are beloved as a “beauty bath,” making Futsukaichi Onsen an ideal stop to pair with sightseeing in Dazaifu. Within walking distance, you’ll find charming restaurants renovated from traditional houses and an atmospheric shopping street. The area’s compact townscape is perfect for a relaxing post-bath stroll.

What is “Futsukaichi Onsen”?

Located about 20 minutes by car from Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, Futsukaichi Onsen is a small hot spring town lined with public bathhouses and traditional inns. A faint scent of sulfur drifts through the air, adding to the nostalgic feeling of travel. The water is rich in radon, and many visitors praise it for leaving their skin feeling soft and moisturized after bathing.

Chikushino City Tourism Association
Address: 1-1-1 Futsukaichi Chuo, Chikushino City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 092-922-2421

Chikushino City Tourism Association

[Accommodation]

Daimaru Besso

Founded in 1865, Daimaru Besso is a distinguished, long-established ryokan once visited by the Crown Prince (now His Majesty the Emperor). One of its greatest highlights is the expansive public bath—spanning approximately 100 tsubo—where lush greenery beyond the windows creates a serene, extraordinary atmosphere, as if you’ve stepped into a secluded mountain retreat.

After enjoying the hot spring to your heart’s content, take time to relax while admiring the beautifully maintained Japanese garden—an ideal way to slow down and savor the moment.

Address: 1-20-1 Yumachi, Chikushino City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 092-924-3939
[1 night / 2 meals] From ¥24,900
[Hot Spring Facilities] Large public baths (Indoor ×2)
[Spring Quality] Alkaline simple hot spring
[Check-in / Check-out] 15:00 / 11:00
[Day-use bathing] Available

Daikanso

In the basement of the main building, you’ll find a spacious public bath, while the 3rd floor of the new wing features an observation bath as well as private family baths. Another highlight is the stone sauna (ganbanyoku) on the 4th floor, allowing you to unwind deeply with a variety of bathing and wellness experiences.

The nostalgic charm of the interiors—filled with a Showa-retro atmosphere—is also part of its appeal. Loved by visitors of all ages, Daikanso is a comfortable choice for a relaxing stay.

Address: 1-12-1 Yumachi, Chikushino City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 092-922-3236
[1 night / 2 meals] From ¥15,200
[Hot Spring Facilities] Large public baths (Indoor ×4) / Private baths (×2)
[Spring Quality] Alkaline simple hot spring
[Check-in / Check-out] 15:00 / 10:00
[Day-use bathing] Not available (available only with meal-plan packages)

IVY Hotel Chikushino

This hotel offers 42 guest rooms, including single, twin, and Japanese-western styles—making it a comfortable option for everything from business stays to family trips. A special highlight is the top-floor Japanese-western room, complete with a private indoor bath where you can enjoy the hot spring at your leisure without leaving your room.

The spacious public bath is another plus, ideal for stretching out and soothing travel fatigue at the end of the day.

Address: 1-14-3 Yumachi, Chikushino City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 092-920-2130
[1 night / breakfast] From ¥10,250
[Hot Spring Facilities] Large public baths (Indoor ×2)
[Spring Quality] Simple hot spring (slightly alkaline hypotonic hot spring)
[Check-in / Check-out] 15:00 / 11:00
[Day-use bathing] Not available

Matsubara Ryokan

A warm and homey hot spring inn hosted by a single proprietress (okami), Matsubara Ryokan offers a truly relaxing stay. The large bath is filled with 100% free-flowing hot spring water (gensen kakenagashi), with no added water or heating.

While the facility is small, it can be reserved for one group at a time—allowing you to enjoy the bath in a private, worry-free atmosphere, almost like a personal bathhouse. After soaking away the day’s fatigue, enjoy homemade dishes prepared by the okami using seasonal ingredients.

Address: 2-5-8 Yumachi, Chikushino City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 092-922-3073
[1 night / 2 meals] From ¥8,850
[Hot Spring Facilities] Large public baths (Indoor ×2)
[Spring Quality] Alkaline simple hot spring (alkaline hypotonic high-temperature spring)
[Check-in / Check-out] 15:00 / 10:00
[Day-use bathing] Not available

[Nearby Day-Trip Spots]

[Must-see spot] Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine

One of Fukuoka’s most iconic sightseeing destinations, Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine is a historic shrine dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning. Students praying for academic success visit in great numbers, along with worshippers from across Japan.

The shrine grounds are filled with seasonal beauty—from natural monument trees such as the broad-leaved chinquapin and camphor trees to blooming plum blossoms and irises. Another must-do after your visit is trying the famous Umegae Mochi, a beloved local sweet. Freshly grilled with a fragrant outer layer and gently sweet red bean paste, it’s the perfect treat. The lively approach to the shrine is also lined with popular sweets, cafés, and shops worth exploring.

Address: 4-7-1 Saifu, Dazaifu City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 092-922-8225
[Hours] 6:30–19:00 (hours may vary by season)
[Closed] None
[Credit Cards] Not accepted
[QR Payments] Not accepted
[Parking] None

[Must-see spot] Homangu Kamado Shrine

Located at the foot of Mount Homan, Homangu Kamado Shrine once played an important role in protecting the northeastern “demon gate” direction of the ancient Dazaifu government offices. For centuries, it has been deeply worshipped as a shrine for good relationships, protection from misfortune, and warding off bad luck, and many visitors still come today in search of its blessings.

The grounds are filled with seasonal beauty—cherry blossoms in spring and vivid autumn leaves that set the shrine aglow. Surrounded by nature, take a quiet moment to pray for good fortune and meaningful connections.

Address: 883 Uchiyama, Dazaifu City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 092-922-4106
[Hours] 8:30–18:00
[Closed] None
[Credit Cards] Not accepted
[QR Payments] Not accepted
[Parking] Approx. 100 spaces (paid / ¥500)

[Gourmet] Wagokoro Nishiyama

Wagokoro Nishiyama is a charming dining spot set inside a renovated traditional house. One of its greatest pleasures is enjoying a refined meal while looking out over a beautiful garden that reflects the changing seasons.

A popular choice is the Homemade Warm Tofu Lunch, featuring silky homemade tofu finished at your table on a small burner. Paired with freshly fried tempura and other seasonal dishes, it’s a gentle, comforting meal that highlights tofu’s natural flavor.

Address: 1-15-17 Yumachi, Chikushino City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 092-408-7986
[Hours] 11:30–13:30 (Last order) / 17:30–19:30 (Last entry, reservation required)
[Closed] Wednesdays
[Credit Cards] Accepted
[QR Payments] Accepted
[Parking] 13 spaces

Official website of Wagokoro Nishiyama

[Café] House-Roasted Coffee Rankan

A beloved café run by an owner certified as a coffee appraiser, Rankan is known for its carefully selected beans and expertly brewed cups using a traditional cloth drip method (nel drip). Each sip offers a rich aroma and deep, full-bodied flavor.

Inside, antique furniture and elegant tableware create a calm, retro atmosphere where coffee lovers naturally gather. Step away from the rush of daily life and enjoy a special cup at a pace that feels wonderfully unhurried.

Address: 1-15-10 Gojo, Dazaifu City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 092-925-7503
[Hours] 10:00–17:00 (Last order)
[Closed] Wednesdays & Thursdays
[Credit Cards] Accepted
[QR Payments] Not accepted
[Parking] 5 spaces

Official website of House-Roasted Coffee Rankan

[Shopping] Ebisu Syoyu

Founded in 1877, this long-established shop is known for its signature dark soy sauce, Ginjo. Rich in umami and depth, it’s so flavorful that simply pouring it over grilled meat can elevate everyday meals—one reason it has been loved by locals for generations.

Another must-try is the shop’s unique Mitara-shi Soft Serve, available only here. The savory, roasted aroma of soy sauce pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness of soft-serve ice cream, creating a new and unforgettable flavor experience.

Address: 4-8-15 Futsukaichi Chuo, Chikushino City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 092-922-3104
[Hours] 9:00–17:00
[Closed] Sundays & Public Holidays
[Credit Cards] Accepted
[QR Payments] Accepted
[Parking] None