Ayu no Sato

Ayunosato is a hot spring ryokan in Hitoyoshi Onsen, Kumamoto Prefecture. It offers an open-air bath with views of Hitoyoshi Castle, and another popular sukiya-style bath where you can soak while looking out over the Kuma River and the mountains of southern Kyushu. Both baths are also available for day-use bathing, and some guest rooms include private baths. Located right by the Kuma River, it boasts outstanding scenery and location. In addition to sightseeing at Hitoyoshi Castle ruins and the National Treasure Aoi Aso Shrine, it’s also recommended to enjoy experiences such as river cruising and rafting on the Kuma River. The ryokan has restaurants, a traditional dining room (ryotei), and a lounge. Dinner features carefully crafted, luxurious dishes such as Kuma beef and ayu sweetfish. Breakfast offers around 40 Japanese and Western items, including even shabu-shabu in the morning. The nightlife district is also within a 5-minute walk for evening strolls. There is a shochu brewery on-site where tastings are available, and a wine cellar where you can choose wines to match your meal. Access: about a 15-minute walk from Hitoyoshi Station.