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A seaside hot spring where you can listen to the sound of waves and feel part of nature

Yakushima Town

Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen is an outdoor seaside hot spring located in the southern part of the island of Yakushima, 60 kilometers south of Kagoshima Prefecture mainland. The water of this hot spring flows up from the bottom of the sea into natural rock pools, making it a very rare undersea hot spring. Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen is a very special place and has been used by locals from generation to generation, over 400 years.

Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen is accessible only for four hours twice a day, around two hours before and after low tide. It is a simple sulfur hot spring, which is said to be good for joint pains. Feel the pleasant breeze and listen to the sound of waves as you soak in the hot spring water.

 Depending on the time of day, you can admire stunning sea views and the colors of the sunset. On clear nights, the star-filled sky awaits you. Slow down a little and enjoy the island of Yakushima with its rich nature and friendly people. 

The onsen pools disappear below water at high tide, so please be sure to check the tidal range in advance before visiting. Please note that Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen is a shared, mixed-gender bath and there are no changing rooms. Wearing any item of clothing, including swimming suits, while bathing is not allowed. The hot spring is maintained by the local people. To use it, please put a small donation (about 200 yen) in the box at the entrance.

How to get there

Take a bus from Miyanoura Port (about 80 minutes) or from Yakushima Airport (about 45 minutes), get off at "Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen" bus stop, then walk 8 minutes.

7-2 Hirauchi, Yakushima-cho,  Kumage-gun, Kagoshima-ken

Links

Yakushima Town

More Information

Kyushu Region | JNTO Official Website

Kagoshima Prefecture | JNTO Official Website