Discover Miyakonojo Onsen
Welcome to Miyakonojo Onsen, an authentic Japanese hot spring experience in the heart of Miyazaki Prefecture. Our natural hot spring offers a tranquil escape to experience the centuries-old tradition of Japanese bathing culture. With mineral-rich sodium bicarbonate waters sourced from deep underground, our onsen provides therapeutic benefits that have been cherished by Japanese people for generations. Discover why Onsen Japan is world-renowned for its healing properties and relaxation benefits.
Onsen (温泉) are natural Japanese hot springs that Japan is famous for, thanks to the country's volcanic activity. Unlike regular baths, onsen water contains various minerals with therapeutic properties that can help with skin conditions, muscle pain, and overall wellness. Miyakonojo Onsen is one of the finest hot springs in Miyazaki.
In Japanese culture, onsen bathing is more than just getting clean—it's a ritual for relaxation, healing, and social bonding. Traditionally, Japanese people believe that bathing in onsen can wash away not just physical dirt but also spiritual impurities.
The water in our onsen is naturally heated by geothermal energy and contains minerals such as sodium, calcium, and sulfur that are beneficial for your skin and body. As a sodium bicarbonate spring, our water is particularly known for its skin-beautifying effects, making Japanese onsen for skin treatments highly sought after. The temperature is maintained at approximately 42°C (107°F), which is ideal for relaxation and therapeutic benefits.
Miyakonojo Onsen features a sodium bicarbonate spring, which is highly valued in Japanese hot springs for its exceptional benefits:
- Skin Beautification: Often called "the hot spring for beautiful skin" in Japan, sodium bicarbonate springs have a mild alkaline quality that gently cleanses and moisturizes the skin, leaving it smooth and soft.
- Natural Exfoliation: The water helps remove dead skin cells and excess oils, promoting natural skin renewal.
- Improved Circulation: The minerals in the water help dilate blood vessels, improving circulation throughout the body.
- Detoxification: The alkaline properties help neutralize acid in the body, supporting natural detoxification processes.
- Relief from Skin Conditions: Many visitors with mild skin conditions report improvement after regular bathing in sodium bicarbonate springs.
These benefits have made Japanese onsen for skin treatment popular among both locals and international visitors seeking natural skincare solutions.
- Tattoos Policy: While many traditional onsen in Japan prohibit tattoos, at Miyakonojo Onsen, we welcome guests with small to medium-sized tattoos. For guests with extensive tattoos, please inquire at the reception about our private bath options.
- Cleanliness is Essential: In Japanese bathing culture, the bath is for soaking and relaxing, not for washing. You must thoroughly wash your body at the washing stations before entering the bath. Soap and shampoo are provided.
- Bathing is Nude: In traditional Japanese onsen, bathing is done without swimwear. Men and women bathe in separate areas. Small towels are used for modesty while walking around, but should not enter the bath water.
- Respect Quiet Atmosphere: Onsen are places for quiet relaxation. Please keep conversations at a low volume and avoid splashing or diving.
- Stay Hydrated: The hot water can cause dehydration. We recommend drinking water before and after your bath. Water fountains are available in the relaxation areas.
- Photography: For privacy reasons, photography is strictly prohibited in the bathing areas.
Onsen Facilities
Our spacious indoor bath features mineral-rich sodium bicarbonate spring water with a temperature of approximately 42°C. The water is known for its skin-beautifying properties and is gentle on the skin. Experience one of the most authentic Japanese hot springs in Miyazaki Prefecture.
Our dry sauna maintains a temperature of approximately 100°C. It features infrared heaters and can accommodate up to 12 people. The sauna is equipped with a TV for your entertainment.
- Temperature: Around 100°C
- Capacity: 12 people
- Features: TV, comfortable seating
Our steam bath uses vaporized hot spring water to create a humid environment with a temperature of approximately 60°C. The steam is rich in minerals from the hot spring water, providing natural benefits for your skin and respiratory system.
- Temperature: Around 60°C (feels like)
- Capacity: 12 people
- Heat Source: Electric
- Features: Uses vaporized hot spring water
- Note: No TV available in this area
Our spacious cold water bath is perfect for cooling down after using the sauna. The water depth is between 80-110cm, providing a refreshing contrast to the heat of the sauna.
Our electric bath features a mild electric current that provides a unique tingling sensation. This bath is believed to help improve circulation and relieve muscle stiffness.
Our tatami-floored relaxation area provides a comfortable space to rest after bathing. The area is equipped with a TV and long tables for your convenience.
Admission & Hours
Adult (13+ years)
500 Yen (approx. $3.50 USD)
Child (6-12 years)
250 Yen (approx. $1.75 USD)
Infant (0-5 years)
100 Yen (approx. $0.70 USD)
Payment Information
- Cash only (Japanese Yen)
- No credit cards or digital payments accepted
- Currency exchange is not available on-site
Multi-Visit Tickets
We offer discounted multi-visit tickets (11 entries for the price of 10). Please ask at the reception desk for more information.
Regular Days (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday):
5:00 AM - 11:00 PM (Last entry at 10:30 PM)
Tuesdays & Fridays:
8:00 AM - 11:00 PM (Last entry at 10:30 PM)
*Later opening for maintenance
Holiday Schedule
Open year-round, including all national holidays, New Year's holidays, and Obon festival period.
Recommended Visit Times
- Least crowded: Weekday mornings (5:00 AM - 9:00 AM)
- Most crowded: Weekend evenings (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM)
- For a peaceful experience: Late evenings (After 9:00 PM)
Access Information
Located in the heart of Miyakonojo City, our onsen is easily accessible by car or public transportation.
Address & Contact
Address: 5468-1 Shibita-cho, Miyakonojo City, Miyazaki Prefecture, 885-0093
Phone: 0986-26-5616
View on Google MapsTransportation Options
By Car:
- 15 minutes from Miyakonojo Interchange
- 10 minutes from Miyakonojo Station
- Free parking available (50 spaces)
By Public Transportation:
- 10 minutes by taxi from JR Miyakonojo Station
- 5 minutes walk from "Shibita Danchi" bus stop on the Miyazaki Kotsu Bus line
Make the most of your visit by exploring these attractions near Miyakonojo Onsen:
Miyakonojo Historical Museum
15 minutes by car
Sekinoo Falls
20 minutes by car
Kirishima Mountain Range
40 minutes by car
Miyazaki Prefecture is home to several renowned hot springs, with Miyakonojo Onsen being one of the most accessible from the city center. If you're exploring the region, consider visiting these other notable hot springs in Miyazaki:
Kirishima Onsen
Famous volcanic hot spring area on the border of Miyazaki and Kagoshima prefectures, about 60 minutes by car from Miyakonojo.
Ebino Kogen Onsen
Mountain hot spring with sulfur-rich waters, approximately 50 minutes by car from Miyakonojo.
Takaharu Onsen
Relaxing hot spring with views of Mt. Kirishima, about 40 minutes by car from Miyakonojo.
Yunomoto Onsen
Historic hot spring dating back over 800 years, located about 90 minutes from Miyakonojo.
While these hot springs offer unique experiences, Miyakonojo Onsen provides the perfect combination of authentic Japanese hot spring experience, convenient location, and excellent facilities.
How to Enjoy Onsen
- Undress Completely: Onsen are typically enjoyed naked. Store your clothes in the provided lockers.
- Rinse Your Body: Before entering the bath, thoroughly rinse your body at the washing area. Use the provided soap and shampoo.
- Tie Up Long Hair: If you have long hair, tie it up so it does not touch the water.
- Enter the Bath Slowly: The water can be very hot. Enter slowly to allow your body to adjust.
- Keep Quiet: Maintain a quiet and relaxing atmosphere. Avoid loud conversations.
- Do Not Soak Towels: Do not put your towel in the bathwater. You can place it on your head or the side of the bath.
- Respect Others: Be mindful of other bathers and avoid splashing or taking up too much space.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink water before, during, and after your bath to prevent dehydration.
- Dry Yourself Off: Before entering the changing room, dry yourself off with your towel.
- Do Not Rinse Off: It is generally recommended not to rinse off the onsen water, as it contains beneficial minerals.
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to replenish fluids.
- Relax: Take some time to relax and enjoy the afterglow of the onsen.
Share Your Experience
Share your Miyakonojo Onsen experience on your favorite social media platforms!