What is a Ryokan? Ryokans are the best way to experience Japanese culture and enjoy the true comforts of Japanese hospitality and service.
Hot springs have a very long history in Japan, and they are an intimate part of Japanese culture. There are over 3,000 "onsen" ,or hot springs, in Japan. Many can be found at the ryokans available on Japanese Guest Houses.
From JR Aso train station, it is a 40 minute taxi ride (around 7,000 yen) to Okunoyu. There is also the Kyushu Odan Kanko Bus which leaves JR Aso train station, and it is about a 1 hour bus ride. The one way fare is about 960 yen. Please get off the bus at Kurokawa Onsen (we recommend the taxi - it is quicker and less confusing).
If you find yourself running late and do not think you will arrive at the ryokan until after 18:00 (6:00 pm) please call them (Their phone number is on your reservation confirmation e-mail) to let them know when you might arrive. This is very important as they will need to make sure that there is a front desk staff waiting to greet you and check you in. If you do not call and arrive after 18:00 there might not be anyone to check you in.
Kurokawa Onsen, Minami Shokoku-cho
Aso-gun
Kumamoto-ken
熊本県阿蘇郡南小国町黒川温泉
