🏨Fukumotoya（福元屋）| Kokonoe Town, Kusu District
Facilities, Dining & Access
A brief guide to hot springs, dining, and travel directions.
Facilities🎌・Hot Springs♨️
Here lies a forgotten Japanese landscape: the secluded hot spring inn, Fukumotoya. Founded in 1907, this small inn with just 9 guest rooms cherishes nostalgic Japanese scenery and spirit. Inside, you’ll find the dowry chest of the second-to-last owner, an old-fashioned hearth, and even a scent that evokes nostalgia.
“Kabe-yu” Natural Cave Hot Spring
The iconic “Kabe-yu Natural Cave Hot Spring,” where rock walls dramatically jut out over the river surface, has been cherished since the early Meiji era. Enjoy gentle 39°C (102°F) water that is soft and soothing—ideal for long soaks.
A Spring Bubbling for Over 300 Years
Our natural hot spring has bubbled up spontaneously for over 300 years and has been featured on television numerous times. Feel countless tiny bubbles envelop your skin as you unwind.
Note: The water has long been said to be effective for digestive and skin ailments and is also drinkable. Please follow any on-site guidance and posted notices.
Dining🍣
The tall-stemmed “Fragrant Rice” is rice lovingly cultivated by the Fukumotoya family. This variety is prone to lodging compared to other rice plants, making it challenging to cultivate each year. We take pride in our country-style kaiseki meals, featuring Oita’s renowned brand beef, Bungo Beef, grilled on lava stone, horse sashimi, and abundant local ingredients.
Cooking with Source Water
At Fukumotoya, all water used for cooking and drinking comes directly from our hot spring source. We draw only what is needed, chill it, and use it fresh.
Fresh Tofu (Okamoto Tofu Shop)
Our tofu is purchased fresh every morning from the renowned Okamoto Tofu Shop and served to our guests. Freshly made zaru tofu is also a popular item.
Access🚀
By Car
- 20 minutes from Kusu Interchange on the Oita Expressway
- 10 minutes from Kokonoe Interchange
Parking: Limited (reservation required)
JR / Bus / Airplane
By JR (Taxi)
- 15 minutes by taxi from JR Hikiji Station
- 30 minutes by taxi from JR Bungomori Station
From Oita Airport
- Express bus to Yufuin Station (55 min) → local train (Kyudai Main Line) to Hikiji Station (30 min) → 15 minutes by taxi
Pickup: Pickup may be available from Kusu IC, Kokonoe IC, Hikiji Station, or Bungomori Station. If you wish to use the pickup service, please contact us in advance.
