Kumamoto

A Stroll through Kurokawa Onsen

Magical views and local specialities

Yui Yamaguchi Jan 27, 2016 - 1 min read

<p>Teragoya rice cracker store - The smell of grilling rice crackers at this shop loosens my purse.</p>

<p>Looking at the riverside inn (Yama no yado Shinmeikan) from the bridge, what a view!</p>

<p>Ryokan Wakaba, with the garden leading to the entrance maintained beautifully. </p>

<p>Tsukemonoya, where you can try before you buy. They sell Aso Takana as well.</p>

<p>You can also explore this town by bicycle.</p>

<p>Goto's sake store, with an excellent selection of Kyushu's alcoholic drinks. </p>

<p>Ramune chilled in a tray of natural spring water & ice outside Goto's sake store.</p>

<p>At Fukuroku, drop in and have a look at the Japanese wraps, towels and other unique items. </p>

<p>Narrow alleys like <span style="line-height: 20.8px;">Igozaka</span> invite you to discover. </p>

<p>At Patisserie Roku, the choux pastry straight out of the oven is being filled with custard cream.</p>

<p>Of course, there is a foot bath (Yamano Yu)!</p>

<p>On the left is Sugi Yohouen, where I learnt about a lot about the benefits of honey from an energetic shop assistant.</p>

<p>Take a break at Shiratamakko, a Japanese sweets shop</p>

<p>A helpful map of Kurokawa Onsen in meticulous detail.</p>

Kurokawa Onsen is the pride and joy of Kumamoto Prefecture, and strolling through this little spa town is one of its many pleasures. I recommend you first get a map from the information center (see photo). Time flies quickly as you take in the many restaurants, cafes, and stores selling pickles, liquor, rice crackers, sweets, ceramics and other local attractions. End your visit at the Ashiyu or foot spa, warming you up and taking your tiredness away.

Yui Yamaguchi @iyu.mura

Born & grew up in Kumamoto, Yui studied and worked in Osaka before immigrating to Australia. She lived in Adelaide and Sydney prior to moving to Brisbane. Her passion is reporting on the great things of Kumamoto and Japan to everyone around the world in a serious, interesting and funny way. Her f...