Fukuoka Has Onsen Too! A Complete Guide—from Day Trips to Famous Hot Springs

Few things feel better than sinking into a warm onsen mid-trip and letting your body truly relax.
Fukuoka is home to many hot spring areas with high-quality waters—including renowned “beauty baths” loved for their skin-smoothing effects. From historic, atmosphere-rich hot springs to quiet mountain onsen towns and hidden gems with easy access from the city, each destination has its own unique charm.

Here, we introduce six onsen areas in Fukuoka Prefecture, so you can choose the perfect one to match your mood and travel style.

Chikugogawa Onsen — A “Beauty Bath” Relaxing by the Chikugo River

Located with scenic views of the Chikugo River and the Mino Mountain Range, Chikugogawa Onsen is a nature-rich hot spring area designated as a National Hot Spring Health Resort by Japan’s Ministry of the Environment. Its smooth, free-flowing hot spring water is affectionately known as the “gentle beauty bath,” and is popular with everyone from children to adults.

It’s also easy to reach—about one hour by car from central Fukuoka City, and only about 3 minutes from the Haki IC. Nearby, you’ll find plenty to explore, including Ukiha City, famous as a “fruit kingdom,” and the charming white-walled townscape of Chikugo Yoshii. It’s the perfect place to stop by for a soak after fruit picking or a leisurely stroll.

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Nearby Spot: Roadside Station Ukiha

Perched on a hill overlooking the Chikugo Plain, Roadside Station Ukiha is one of the most popular michi-no-eki in Kyushu. Its marketplace is filled with fresh fruit and vegetables—just what you’d expect from the region’s “fruit kingdom”—making it a great stop for souvenirs.

One must-try specialty is the “Fruit Kingdom Ukiha Curry,” made generously with local peaches and Pione grapes. You can also enjoy local treats like rich soft-serve ice cream made with milk from Matsuno Farm.

Harazuru Onsen — A Double “Beauty Bath” with the Best Flow Rate in the Prefecture

With inns lining the Chikugo River, Harazuru Onsen is a hot spring town known for having one of the highest volumes of spring water and the greatest number of sources in Fukuoka Prefecture. Its standout feature is the “W Beauty Bath”—a combination of alkaline simple hot spring water that helps remove old dead skin cells, and sulfur springs said to support brighter-looking skin.

The water feels luxuriously silky, and many visitors say their skin feels noticeably smoother after bathing. The surrounding area also offers rich seasonal and historical scenery, including traditional cormorant fishing in summer, the famous triple waterwheels of Asakura, and the castle town of Akizuki. Best of all, it’s only about an hour from Fukuoka City, making it an easy day trip.

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Nearby Spot: Asakura Triple Waterwheels

Built in 1789, these are considered the oldest working waterwheels in Japan still in operation today. Blending beautifully into the rural landscape, the triple waterwheels are a symbol of Asakura. The sound of the wheels turning—unchanged for centuries—creates a nostalgic atmosphere that captivates visitors.

At night in summer, the site is lit up, adding a magical touch to the scenery along with the calming sounds of flowing water.

Hakata Onsen — Refresh Yourself Between Sightseeing

富士の苑 / Ryokan Fuji-no-en

About 6 km south of Tenjin in Fukuoka City, Hakata Onsen is a natural onsen tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood.
Rather than a full onsen town, it’s a hidden gem made up of just one bathing facility and one inn.

Nearly 49°C onsen water flows directly from the source in generous volume, offering a light, refreshing feel—and it’s even drinkable.

Selected by onsen experts who focus on finding the “real thing,” Hakata Onsen is also part of the Kyushu 88 Onsen Meguri.
A rare chance to experience authentic onsen quality right in the heart of the city.

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What is “Kyushu 88 Hot Springs – Kyushu Onsen Road”?

Kyushu is one of Japan’s greatest hot spring regions, packed with so many incredible baths that choosing where to go can be a challenge. The Kyushu 88 Hot Springs project is a way to explore carefully selected “authentic” hot springs, handpicked by hot spring masters who focus on water quality above all else.

Visit participating onsen and collect stamps in a special “Onsen Stamp Book.” Depending on how many you collect, you can even receive an official rank certification. Why not enjoy Kyushu’s unique hot spring culture while taking on the challenge of mastering the Kyushu Onsen Road?

Kyushu 88 Hot Springs

Futsukaichi Onsen — The Perfect Stop After Dazaifu Sightseeing

A celebrated onsen with more than 1,300 years of history, even mentioned in the Manyoshu anthology.
Known as the “inner parlor of Hakata,” it has long been loved by writers and literary figures, including Natsume Soseki.

Rich in radon, the onsen water is known for its gently moisturizing feel and has earned a strong reputation as a “beauty bath.”
Even today, the area retains the atmosphere of a historic onsen town, making a leisurely post-bath stroll one of its quiet pleasures.

Located about 20 minutes by car from Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and easily accessible from central Fukuoka, it’s an inviting place to relax and enjoy one of Kyushu’s oldest onsen as part of your sightseeing journey.

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Nearby Spot: Buzouji Temple

Said to have been founded in the Asuka period, Buzouji Temple is one of Kyushu’s oldest historic temples. It’s also known as “Wisteria Temple,” thanks to the majestic “Choja no Fuji,” a wisteria vine over 1,300 years old.

In mid-April, its blossoms bloom spectacularly, filling the air with a sweet fragrance and drawing many visitors. The grounds also feature “Shito no Taki,” a waterfall where Sugawara no Michizane is said to have purified himself—adding even more historical depth to this serene site.

Wakita Onsen — A Quiet Hot Spring Retreat Wrapped in Nature

Nestled at the foot of Inunaki Pass, Wakita Onsen is like a hidden hideaway far from the city’s bustle. Surrounded by the lush nature of the Inunaki mountain range, the soothing sound of the river creates a calming backdrop, and each season brings its own charm.

The hot spring water has a slight silky texture, and is said to leave skin feeling refreshed and smooth. For souvenirs, don’t miss Miyawaka City’s local specialty “Miyawaka Oidashi Neko”—a charming lucky cat said to sweep away misfortune and bring good fortune, making it a perfect memory of your trip.

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Nearby Spot: Seisuiji Temple

Perched on a hill about 300 meters above sea level, Seisuiji Temple is a historic temple said to have been founded in the Nara period. From the temple grounds, you can look out across Miyawaka City—and on clear days, even as far as Kitakyushu.

It’s also famous as a spot where you can sometimes see a breathtaking sea of clouds. After rain, if the conditions are right, the mountains appear to float above a white mist, creating a scenery as stunning as a traditional ink painting.

Funagoya Onsen — Just Steps from the Shinkansen Station, Warm Up with Carbonated Springs

Located near Kyushu Shinkansen’s Chikugo-Funagoya Station, this onsen area springs up along the Yabe River.
Its rare, high-concentration carbonated onsen is known for boosting circulation and is sometimes called the “heart bath,” with warmth that lingers long after you step out of the water.

At Funagoya Mineral Spring, you can also enjoy the onsen water as a free drink, letting you experience its benefits from the inside out.
Nearby, you’ll find HAWKS Baseball Park Chikugo, and with a short trip, the charming white-walled townscape of Yame, where a leisurely stroll is part of the pleasure.

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Nearby Spot: Koinoki Shrine

Dedicated to “Koinomikoto,” a deity of love and relationships, Koinoki Shrine is a rare shrine in Japan known for blessings in romance and meaningful connections.

The path leading to the main shrine—called the “Love Approach”—is lined with heart-shaped ceramic tiles, and heart motifs can be found everywhere, from the shrine crest to amulets and ema prayer plaques. Why not visit and wish for a special bond or a wonderful new encounter?

Find Your Perfect Onsen by Theme

If you search by theme, your ideal hot spring trip becomes even more exciting.

From scenic-view hot springs that soothe you with breathtaking landscapes, to baths chosen by health benefits, the options are endless. There are pet-friendly accommodations, barrier-free facilities designed for comfort and accessibility, private reservable baths for a more personal experience, and even sauna-focused locations for those who love to sweat and reset.

Stunning Bath Views

Soak into an open-air bath, feel nature all around you, and let the noise of everyday life fade away. As the scenery shifts with time—from day to night—you’ll find yourself enjoying a truly special travel moment.

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Choose by Health Benefits

Hot springs in Japan are classified into 10 types depending on the minerals and their concentration. Some, like chloride springs, warm you deeply and help prevent chills afterward, while simple hot springs are known for their gentle, soft feel.

Enjoy the differences in temperature, color, and aroma—and find the onsen that feels just right for you.

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Pet-Friendly Stays

More and more accommodations welcome pets with features like private dog-run rooms and options for small animals too. With the right facilities, traveling with your pet becomes easier and more comfortable than ever.

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Easy Refreshment with Footbaths

Footbaths are a simple and enjoyable way to ease travel fatigue. Warming your calves helps improve blood circulation throughout your body, and may support recovery, relaxation, and overall comfort. These soothing spots are loved by both travelers and locals.

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Barrier-Free Comfort

With features like handrails, and private baths designed for bathing with special bathing wheelchairs, many facilities offer spaces where everyone can relax with peace of mind. Thoughtful designs reduce physical strain and help you enjoy a calm, comfortable hot spring experience.

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Private Reservable Baths

A private bath lets you enjoy hot springs without worrying about anyone else around you. Perfect for families with young children, couples, or anyone who wants to treat themselves to a relaxing personal soak.

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Reset Your Body and Mind with Sauna

From löyly and mist saunas to other styles, saunas add even more enjoyment to an onsen trip. After sweating it out, cooling down in a cold bath brings that unbeatable “totonou” feeling—deep refreshment for both body and mind.

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Brochure: Gourmet and Hot Springs Retreat in Fukuoka

A brochure introducing the appeal of Fukuoka Prefecture's hot springs by lodging facilities and themes. Combined with nearby attractions and restaurants, it's your guide to fully enjoying your hot spring tour.

Download the PDF

How did it sound?
Taking time to soak slowly in a hot spring is sure to become one of the best parts of your trip. When you visit Fukuoka, be sure to enjoy its onsen—whether as a day trip or an overnight stay. Fukuoka’s hot springs are waiting for you!