Kurokawa Onsen, a charming hot spring town nestled in the mountains of Kumamoto Prefecture, is celebrated for its tranquil atmosphere and traditional ryokan inns that line the riverbanks. This serene retreat is perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape, with its outdoor baths offering a relaxing experience surrounded by nature. The town does not have a defined central dining area, and while there are a few local eateries, it is highly recommended to enjoy dinner at your ryokan.
These accommodations typically offer carefully prepared meals featuring seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. The traditional kaiseki-style meals often include a variety of dishes such as fresh vegetables, freshwater fish, and other regional delights that reflect the rural heritage of the area. The combination of relaxing hot springs and authentic Japanese cuisine makes Kurokawa Onsen an ideal destination for a restorative and immersive experience in the heart of nature.
1. Iroriya-いろい屋
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☆☆☆ - Google Map
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No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
In the area around Kurokawa Onsen, options for dinner are quite limited, so upon asking for recommendations at the ryokan reception, “Iroriya,” a local izakaya, was suggested. Since the restaurant doesn’t have its own parking, we parked at a nearby cooperative lot and walked just a minute or two to get there. The restaurant is nestled within the Kurokawa Onsen area, and due to its popularity, reservations are recommended. The interior features both table and counter seating, and it quickly filled up, making it a lively spot. The menu offers classic dishes, with items like yaki udon, grilled hokke, and fried daikon being particularly popular. The food was excellent, especially the tofu-based dishes, which are a specialty here. The service was attentive and friendly, making it a perfect choice for dinner while staying in Kurokawa Onsen.
2. Una-うな北 黒川温泉店
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No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
This unagi restaurant in Kurokawa Onsen offers a relaxing dining experience in a semi-private tatami room setting. Known for its popularity, the restaurant often requires a wait, but the staff is accommodating, offering to call when a table becomes available. The menu includes both unaju (eel rice box) and unadon (eel rice bowl) options, with the unadon providing a satisfying portion with four slices of eel. The meal is complemented by traditional dishes like grilled eel liver and kimosui (eel liver soup). While the food and service are commendable, the absence of narazuke pickled vegetables may be noted by some as a minor drawback. Overall, the restaurant provides a peaceful and enjoyable dining experience with attentive service.
3. Hana Akari-食彩 花あかり
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No Parking. Recommended to visit on foot. - Description
Hana Akari is a cozy and charming Western-style restaurant located near Kurokawa Onsen, known for its warm and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant, run by an elderly couple, offers a variety of dishes, including hamburg steaks, stews, and pasta, all made with fresh and high-quality ingredients. The menu includes options like thick-cut tongue stew and Akaushi beef hamburg steak, each dish carefully prepared and full of flavor. The restaurant’s setting, resembling a small log house, adds to the charm, with a relaxed ambiance perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal. Due to its popularity and limited seating, reservations are recommended. Guests often praise the tenderness and rich taste of the tongue stew, the freshness of the vegetables, and the overall warmth and hospitality provided by the owners. Hana Akari is a favorite among both locals and tourists, offering a memorable dining experience that complements the serene surroundings of Kurokawa Onsen.