Senraku Hot Spring

It was my first time using the bath. The large public bath costs 600 yen per adult. Payment is cash only. Family baths are around 2,000 yen, but prices vary depending on the location. I used the large public bath this time, and by chance, there were no other guests there, so I had it all to myself, and was able to take some photos of the bathhouse as well. Although it's a large public bath, there are only four washing areas and one rock bathtub. Shampoo, conditioner, and body soap are provided. There are free lockers in the changing room. It's not particularly spacious, but it's fine when it's not crowded. In front of me is the Kusu River, a covered semi-open-air bath. There's a plastic curtain hanging over it, perhaps to keep out insects or provide privacy. The water is a sodium bicarbonate spring? And it's absolutely delicious. It's light, but leaves your skin feeling silky smooth even after bathing; it's what they call a "beauty bath."

Birds gather around the murmuring of the river. A breathtaking view unfolds beyond the rising steam. A hot spring where you can truly experience nature. [Senraku Onsen] The water is light and smooth, leaving your skin incredibly smooth after a bath. It's so comfortable you'll find yourself touching it over and over again. And right before your eyes, the river sparkles, reflecting the light, and the seasonal scenery changes. Just staring at it makes you feel like all your daily fatigue melts away. The hot spring happened to be exclusively available that day, so we had the tranquil, luxurious hot spring all to ourselves. The open feeling of the rock bath and the warmth of the wooden tub are both amazing, making this a place you'll want to return to every season. It's a hot spring you'll want to visit in all its different faces, spring, summer, fall, and winter.

On our way back from Beppu, we decided to stop by a hot spring and headed here. I didn't take any photos inside. I think it's probably maxed out at 4-5 people? Families seem to use the private baths. I didn't expect there to be only rock baths, so I got in without my glasses, which was a bit scary. It's the season for autumn leaves, and the wind carries them into the hot spring. It was also nice to bathe while looking out at the river. There are only outdoor stalls, so I wonder if it will be difficult when it gets colder from now on?

I went in June 2025. Private cypress wood bath: ¥2100 (50 minutes) It's large enough for about 2-3 people. Amenities are provided, the temperature is normal to slightly hot, and the view is nice if it weren't for the solar panels outside. Spring water quality: ・Sodium bicarbonate spring/chloride spring (Weakly alkaline hypotonic spring) (Former spring water quality name: Sodium chloride-bicarbonate spring)

If you're in Hita and want an authentic onsen experience that won't break the bank, check out this gem. A quick bus ride from the station, the public bath entry is a steal at only ¥600. I was lucky enough to be the only visitor during my soak, enjoying the peace and quiet. It perfectly balances price and quality—a great find!