Harazuru Onsen | Unwind with Gentle Scenery and Local Flavors

Lined with inns of all sizes along the Chikugo River, Harazuru is one of the largest hot spring towns in Fukuoka Prefecture. It is also known for traditional cormorant fishing (ukai), a beloved summer spectacle, and for river fish dishes featuring sweetfish (ayu). Nearby, you can visit Japan’s oldest working “three-wheeled waterwheels” and stroll through Akizuki, a former castle town often called the “Little Kyoto of Chikuzen,” where seasonal landscapes shine throughout the year. From cuisine highlighting local ingredients to fruit-picking experiences that celebrate the area’s harvest, Harazuru offers a soothing getaway with plenty to savor.

What is “Harazuru Onsen”?

Set along the Chikugo River—Kyushu’s largest—this hot spring town opens onto beautiful scenery right before your eyes. One of its signatures is the “Hot Spring of Double Beauty,” with waters containing both alkaline and sulfur components, cherished for their skin-smoothing effects. With such an abundant supply, many inns even maintain their own private sources.

Harazuru Onsen Ryokan Cooperative
Address: 26-12 Haki Shiwa, Asakura City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 0946-62-0001

Harazuru Onsen Ryokan Cooperative

[Accommodation]

Hodoai no Yado Roppokan

A Japanese-modern mood flows throughout the inn, and the moment you step inside, time seems to slow. Start at the first-floor terrace, where a foot bath overlooking the Chikugo River helps melt away travel fatigue. Guest rooms range from streamlined, functional styles to more indulgent options with private hot spring baths—ideal for anniversaries and special occasions. On the top floor, the open-air observation bath invites you to soak in gentle, skin-friendly waters while taking in the peaceful landscape.

Address: 1840 Haki Kukimiya, Asakura City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 0946-62-1047
[1 night / 2 meals] From ¥20,150
[Hot Spring Facilities] Large public baths (Indoor ×2; Open-air ×2)
[Spring Quality] Alkaline simple sulfur hot spring
[Check-in / Check-out] 15:00 / 10:00
[Day-use bathing] Available (Set plan with meal + bathing only)

Taisenkaku

The highlight at Taisenkaku is the “Jungle Bath,” a large bathing area filled with lush greenery—banyan-like gajumaru trees and more—so it feels as if you’ve wandered into a hidden sanctuary. Enjoy a mini bath-hopping experience with features like a jacuzzi and a tub with a slide. Guest rooms add a local touch with traditional crafts such as Amagi Shibori textiles and Koishiwara-yaki pottery, letting you feel the spirit of Fukuoka beyond the baths. Settle in, soak slowly, and enjoy the region’s charms at your own pace.

Address: 20 Haki Shiwa, Asakura City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 0946-62-1140
[1 night / 2 meals] From ¥16,850
[Hot Spring Facilities] Large public baths (Indoor ×2; Open-air ×2); Private baths ×2
[Spring Quality] Alkaline simple hot spring; Simple sulfur hot spring
[Check-in / Check-out] 15:00 / 10:00
[Day-use bathing] Available

View Hotel Heisei

Perched halfway up Mount Koyama at an elevation of 160 meters, this inn is celebrated for sweeping views over the Chikugo Plain, the Chikugo River, and the Minou mountain range beyond. The scenery is stunning not only from the guest rooms, but also from the open-air bath—so beautiful it may leave you speechless. The gently carbonated, milky-white water warms you through to the core. Rooms with private hot spring baths come in three styles—Japanese-Western, Japanese, and Western—each designed so you can fully enjoy the panorama.

Address: 203-1 Haki Shiwa, Asakura City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 0946-63-3515
[1 night / 2 meals] From ¥15,750
[Hot Spring Facilities] Large public baths (Indoor ×2; Open-air ×2)
[Spring Quality] Calcium / Sodium / Magnesium bicarbonate hot spring
[Check-in / Check-out] 15:00 / 10:00
[Day-use bathing] Available (Open-air bath only)

Enmeikan

Known as the “Hot Spring of Triple Beauty,” Enmeikan’s waters feature three key qualities: alkaline, sulfur, and carbonated components. With 100% free-flowing spring water and a pleasantly lukewarm temperature, it’s perfect for those who love to linger in the bath. Every guest room looks out over the grand Chikugo River, and the inn’s nostalgic, retro atmosphere makes it easy to relax. After soaking away the day’s fatigue, enjoy a carefully prepared course meal showcasing seasonal local ingredients.

Address: 15-2 Haki Shiwa, Asakura City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 0946-62-1133
[1 night / 2 meals] From ¥15,750
[Hot Spring Facilities] Large public baths (Indoor ×2; Open-air ×2); Private baths ×2
[Spring Quality] Alkaline simple hot spring; Simple sulfur hot spring
[Check-in / Check-out] 15:00 / 10:00
[Day-use bathing] Available

Satousou

The on-site spring rises from 230 meters underground at 46.9°C. Rich in alkaline components, it feels soft on the skin and is praised for being gentle—some even say it supports anti-aging care. Spacious Japanese-Western rooms are a great fit for multigenerational family trips. The facility is primarily for day use, but it also features a pet-only hot spring—kind to pets with skin concerns and said to help keep their coat and skin healthy.
Overnight stays with pets are not available.

Address: 1890 Haki Kukimiya, Asakura City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 0946-62-0657
[1 night / 2 meals] From ¥15,750
[Hot Spring Facilities] Large public baths (Indoor ×2); Large public bath (Open-air, women only ×1)
[Spring Quality] Slightly alkaline hypotonic high-temperature hot spring
[Check-in / Check-out] 15:00 / 10:00
[Day-use bathing] Available

Hotel Parens Onoya

Overlooking a beautifully kept garden, the first-floor lobby lounge doubles as a library—an inviting place to unwind. After check-in, pick up a book and let the hours drift by. With a variety of room styles—from special rooms on upper floors to character-filled detached annexes offering added privacy—you can choose the perfect fit for your occasion and travel style.

Address: 1841-1 Haki Kukimiya, Asakura City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 0946-62-1120
[1 night / 2 meals] From ¥16,850
[Hot Spring Facilities] Large public baths (Indoor ×4; Open-air ×2); Private baths ×3
[Spring Quality] Alkaline simple hot spring
[Check-in / Check-out] 15:00 / 10:00
[Day-use bathing] Not available

Ryokan Toyotomi

Tucked away in a quiet spot slightly removed from the center of the Harazuru hot spring area, this standalone inn offers a calm retreat. Its free-flowing spring water is rich in alkaline components and radon, valued not only as a “beautifying bath” but also as high-quality water that leaves you feeling refreshed from within. If you stay in a renovated Japanese-Western room, a private dining room is prepared for dinner—perfect for savoring seasonal flavors at your own pace with someone special.

Address: 1343-1 Haki Kukimiya, Asakura City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 0946-62-0225
[1 night / 2 meals] From ¥15,750
[Hot Spring Facilities] Large public baths (Indoor ×4; Open-air ×2); Private baths ×3
[Spring Quality] Simple hot spring
[Check-in / Check-out] 15:00 / 10:00
[Day-use bathing] Available

Harazuru no Mai

From its stylish lobby to the refined atmosphere throughout, this property feels polished yet relaxing. Each of the 13 guest rooms comes with its own hot spring bath, so you can enjoy a completely private soak without interruption. There are also spacious rooms that can accommodate stays for two to three households, making it an excellent option for larger groups traveling together.

Address: 1-3 Haki Shiwa, Asakura City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 0946-28-7227
[1 night / 2 meals] From ¥33,000
[Hot Spring Facilities] In-room baths only
[Spring Quality] Weakly alkaline simple hot spring; Simple sulfur hot spring
[Check-in / Check-out] 15:00 / 10:00
[Day-use bathing] Not available

[Nearby Day-Trip Spots]

［Must-see spot] Akizuki Castle Ruins

Akizuki Castle Ruins is one of Fukuoka Prefecture’s most beloved spots for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. With changing beauty across the seasons, it captivates visitors all year round. As a designated historic site of the prefecture, the grounds preserve landmarks such as the Kuro-mon Gate and Nagaya-mon Gate—important cultural properties kept in their original form. Take a slow stroll through streets that still echo the old castle town, and let your imagination wander through history.

Address: Akizuki, Asakura City, Fukuoka Prefecture
[Parking] 150 spaces (Akizuki Parking: regular cars ¥400)

[Experience] Fruit Picking

Blessed with rich soil and clear water, the Asakura and Ukiha area welcomes you with seasonal fruit no matter when you visit. Picking sun-ripened fruit with your own hands—and enjoying it right there—is the kind of experience that becomes an unforgettable memory for both adults and children. Because fruit varieties and participating farms change by season, please check official city websites for the latest information.

Tel: 0946-52-1428 (Asakura City Commerce, Industry & Tourism Division, Tourism Promotion Section)
Tel: 0943-76-3980 (Ukiha Tourism Mirai-Zukuri Corporation)

[Gourmet] Cheese Artisan and Pizza Nakamura

This shop crafts house-made cheese by hand using fresh morning milk delivered directly from a local farm. Their pizzas—lavishly topped with newly made cheese—are nothing short of outstanding. One bite and you’ll taste the rich, creamy depth and aroma of fresh milk, guaranteed to bring a smile. Enjoy it hot from the oven inside, or take it to go—perfect for a scenic snack during a drive.

Address: 435-2 Akizuki No-tori, Asakura City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 070-8352-4352
[Hours] 11:00–16:00 (Ends when cheese or pizza dough runs out)
[Closed] Monday, Thursday, Friday
[Card payments] Not available
[QR payments] Available
[Parking] 6 spaces

Official Instagram account of Cheese Artisan and Pizza Nakamura

[Gourmet] Akizuki Tofu ya

Located near the entrance to Akizuki’s castle town along the main road, Akizuki Tofu ya serves fresh house-made tofu prepared carefully each day. Using carefully selected soybeans such as Asakura-grown Fukuyutaka, the menu features colorful set meals where tofu takes center stage. The dishes draw out the soybeans’ natural sweetness and umami—healthy yet surprisingly satisfying. Don’t miss the chance to taste truly fresh tofu at its best.

Address: 115-3 Senju, Asakura City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 0946-25-0839
[Hours] 10:00–16:00 (Meals 11:30–Last order 14:00)
[Closed] Monday, Thursday (plus occasional closures)
[Card payments] Available
[QR payments] Not available
[Parking] 8 spaces

Official website of Akizuki Tofu ya

[Gourmet] Hirokyu-kudzu Honpo (arrowroot shop) The 10th Generation Kyusuke Takaki

Since its founding in 1819, this long-established shop has devoted itself entirely to kuzu (arrowroot), preserving the tradition for over two centuries. Here, you can savor the deep, refined flavor that only genuine kuzu can offer. In the attached sweets café, favorites include melt-in-your-mouth kuzu mochi and silky kuzu kiri with its clean, smooth finish. The shop has many devoted fans—some traveling from far away for a single taste.

Address: 532 Akizuki, Asakura City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 0946-25-0215
[Hours] 9:00–17:00 (Café 11:00–Last order 16:30)
[Closed] Monday (If a public holiday, the following day; November: no closing days)
[Card payments] Not available
[QR payments] Not available
[Parking] 20 spaces

Official website of Hirokyu-kudzu Honpo (arrowroot shop) The 10th Generation Kyusuke Takaki

[Gourmet] Tsuge

Using generous amounts of seasonal local ingredients nurtured by the area’s rich nature, Tsuge serves comforting home-style dishes with a gentle warmth. Simple yet deeply flavorful, the menu has a way of softening your mood the moment you sit down. A standout is their yamame (mountain trout), slowly grilled over an irori hearth fire—its fragrant, crisp skin and tender flesh are exceptional. In a calm space reminiscent of an old farmhouse, enjoy a quietly luxurious moment far from the everyday.

Address: 478-1 Shimofuchi, Asakura City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 0946-24-1551
[Hours] 11:00–15:00 (Last order 14:00) / 17:00–20:00 (Reservation required)
[Closed] Monday, Tuesday (Open on public holidays)
[Card payments] Not available
[QR payments] Available
[Parking] 12 spaces

[Farmers’ Market] Sanren Suisha-no-sato Asakura

With its eye-catching monument of the three-wheeled waterwheels, Sanren Suisha-no-sato Asakura is a farmers’ market packed with local specialties. Inside, you’ll find freshly picked vegetables, seasonal fruits, and a wide range of lovingly made processed foods. It also serves as a local hub for sharing the area’s charms—welcoming visitors and introducing them to the flavors and character of Asakura.

Address: 2192-1 Yamada, Asakura City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 0946-52-9300
[Hours] 8:00–17:30
[Closed] 3rd Thursday in January and February
[Card payments] Available
[QR payments] Available
[Parking] 250 spaces

[Roadside Station] Roadside Station ‘Harazuru' Farm Station Basallo

About a five-minute drive from the Oita Expressway’s Haki IC, this roadside market is as convenient as it is enticing. The shelves are filled with items reflecting the care and passion of local producers: freshly harvested vegetables, juicy seasonal fruit at peak ripeness, and handmade processed goods. It’s the kind of place where you’re sure to discover something you can only find here.

Address: 1665-1 Haki Kukimiya, Asakura City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Tel: 0946-63-3888
[Hours] 8:30–17:30 (4th Wednesday: until 17:00)
[Closed] None
[Card payments] Available
[QR payments] Available
[Parking] 145 spaces