When you think of Japan, you think of hot springs.
Honestly, coming all the way to Japan and not soaking in an onsen? No way!
So today, let me introduce one of my all-time favorite hot spring destinations—
a place that feels like my second hometown: Kirishima.
✅ What is Kirishima Onsen kyo?
Kirishima Onsen kyo is a collection of hot spring towns spread across the slopes of the Kirishima mountain range in Kagoshima Prefecture.
It’s known as one of the oldest hot spring areas in Japan, with a long, deep history.
🔥 Why Kirishima Onsen is Amazing
✅ Over 100 Hot Springs!
Kirishima has more than 100 natural hot spring sources—seriously!
It’s so common that some locals literally have hot spring water piped directly into their homes.
Most baths feature cloudy water and sulfur springs, which have a very distinctive aroma.
I grew up with this smell, so for me, this is what an onsen should smell like.
Some people say “Whoa, that’s stinks!”, but honestly, I love it.
✅ A High-Altitude Retreat
Located around 600–800 meters above sea level, Kirishima offers beautiful seasonal scenery.
And true to its name (“Kiri” means fog), the area is often wrapped in mysterious, thick mist.
It feels magical—like nature is showing off.
✅ Where Nature, Myth, and History Meet
Kirishima is filled with spots connected to ancient Japanese mythology, especially around the Kirishima mountain range and Kirishima Shrine.
Even someone like me—who never cared about mythology—found myself constantly going, “Wow!”
There’s so much history hidden in the landscape.
♨️ Hot Spring Areas (My Picks)
Kirishima Onsen is made up of nine different hot spring districts.
To keep things simple, here are a few I personally recommend:
Iodani Onsen – Famous for milky-white sulfur baths.
Maruo Onsen – The main onsen town with inns, hotels, and great access.
Myōken Onsen – Technically outside the core, but often grouped together. Quiet and atmospheric.
Each area has its own type of spring water, which makes hot spring hopping super fun.
🗻 Nature & Must-Visit Spots
● Kirishima Shrine
A National Treasure and a major spiritual spot. It’s quiet, majestic, and honestly breathtaking.
Even though I’m not usually into shrines, I always visit when I’m back home.
The moment you pass through the torii gate, the air shifts—it’s goosebumps-level special.
● Ebino Plateau
Known for its scenic trails and crater lakes.
When I was younger, the lake even froze enough for ice skating in winter!
Times have changed, but it’s still a beloved outdoor destination.
● Mt. Takachiho
Famous as the legendary site of the “descent of the heavenly grandson” in Japanese mythology.
We climbed it for a school trip ages ago, and although I nearly died on the trail (lol),
the lunch we ate at the summit tasted unbelievably good.
● Maruo Falls
A waterfall that literally flows with hot spring water!
It’s beautifully lit up at night and gives off a gentle sulfur scent—super unique even in Japan.
🍽️ Local Food & Specialties
→Yes, raw chicken! Sounds wild, right? But it’s super fresh, totally safe, and unbelievably tasty.
Made from local Kuro Satsuma-dori—so tender, so flavorful!
→ Strong aroma but surprisingly mild taste.
My family uses it in cooking, and I used to drink it as a health tonic.
→ Kagoshima’s signature spirit.
Strong, aromatic, and super addictive if you’re into it.
🚗 Access
About 30 minutes by car from Kagoshima Airport
About 1.5 hours from Miyazaki Airport
Getting around is easiest by car, but buses are available as well.
