Kumamoto

<p>The riverside pathway to Shinmeikan's cave onsen</p>

The riverside pathway to Shinmeikan's cave onsen (Photo: Mandy Bartok)

Kumamoto

Cave Onsen of Shinmeikan

A steamy subterranean soak in Kurokawa Onsen

Mandy Bartok Jan 12, 2015 - 1 min read

<p>The riverside pathway to Shinmeikan's cave onsen</p>

<p>The entrance to the women's bath looks just like a mine shaft</p>

<p>The cave extends fairly far back into the hill and there are several side tunnels</p>

<p>A small statue stands at the entrance to the baths</p>

<p>The entrance to Shinmeikan is across the bridge</p>

<p>A line of sandals on the bridge to Shinmeikan</p>

Kurokawa Onsen is known for its rotemburo (outdoor baths) but if you're ready for something a little bit different, try out the cave onsen of Ryokan Shinmeikan. Passageways carved out of the rock reach back far into the hill; the water in some spots can be as deep as one's waist. The steamy air makes for poor visibilty so caution is needed when moving around the onsen but this is an incredibly unique experience. There are three separate bathing areas, one for women only and two that are mixed gender.

Mandy Bartok

Mandy Bartok @mandy.bartok

Japan resident for 10 years, with time spent in Okinawa, Kumamoto and Tokyo.