A Japanese-style minimalist hot spring inn—soak in the 37°C ancient springs just right

▲ The entrance with a traditional Japanese noren curtain.

Reporter: You Ruru / Kyushu photography and reporting

Japanese hot spring inns have long been a classic experience for travelers, but as times change, traditional inn management concepts are also beginning to evolve. In the Kusu hot spring area of Kyushu, Japan, there’s an inn that stands out with its modern "Japanese minimalist" style, aiming to attract both 30- to 60-year-old guests by combining the traditional "toji" (hot spring cure) experience with new sensory and comfort services.


▲%The entrance features a serene garden view.


As you turn the corner toward the inn’s entrance, a silver coffee machine sits at one end of a large 15-person wooden table, giving off a Japanese minimalist café vibe before you even step inside—you might even think, “What a great café!” before realizing you’ve arrived at the entrance of ONCRI Kusu Hot Spring Hotel. It’s the first impression the place gives: a bit of a youthful, hipster feel, yet calm and relaxing.

The "Kusu Hot Springs" originated during China’s Qin Dynasty, when Emperor Qin Shi Huang sent envoys in search of the elixir of life. They discovered these springs here. Rich in minerals, the springs are known for treating joint pain and skin conditions. Due to their high mineral concentration, they’re especially favored by Japanese visitors. Kusu is the only hot spring in Saga Prefecture designated as an official Japanese "toji" (hot spring therapy) destination. Inn staff note that the 37°C waters are ideal for long soaks, with around one hour being the perfect duration.


▲%The indoor area features several baths.








The women’s bath has five different pools, both indoors and outdoors. Sometimes in Japan, the scenery around the bath can be even more impressive than the therapeutic effects of the water itself—and ONCRI Kusu Hot Spring Hotel is no exception. Soaking in the various colorful pools, surrounded by picturesque views and lush greenery, the baths come in diverse designs. Even guests staying just a short time will find switching between pools a refreshing experience.

As for the rooms, the Western-style ones are especially stunning, divided into three square spaces: a living room, bedroom, and bathroom. Upon entering, you first see the living room, and beyond the wooden door is the Western-style bedroom, with the full-width glass-windowed bathroom revealed only once you step inside. Guests who prefer not to soak in the communal baths can still enjoy the scenery pouring into their rooms.


▲%The interior is divided into distinct functional zones.




At ONCRI Kusu Hot Spring Hotel, dining offers two highlights: one is the locally grown coffee beans, produced in small quantities and cultivated with local spring water—aromatic and completely free of bitterness. All guests can enjoy it at the 15-person wooden table by the entrance. The other is the meals, which are prepared in collaboration with nearby farms using freshly picked local vegetables. The menu changes seasonally, and like the coffee, production is limited—reservations are required to enjoy these offerings.

%The location is peaceful and safe.


ONCRI Kusu Hot Spring Hotel
Address: 556 Kusu, Fujimachi, Saga, Saga Prefecture 840-1301, Japan
Phone: 0952-51-8111
Price: Starting from 20,000 JPY per person

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