It’s not a big place, but it’s really clean and has that artsy, bookish vibe—not one of those footbaths packed with tourists. It’s super quiet while you soak your feet, and it’s comfortable to just zone out or chat. Perfect stop when you’re tired from walking.
The water isn’t so hot it’s uncomfortable, and after a bit your feet actually warm up. Great for fall/winter or in the evening. Overall it’s not some must-see major attraction, but if you happen to pass by, you’ll feel like “nice, that was a win.” Very laid-back and soothing.

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Karatachi Literary Footbath
A free footbath where you can take a relaxing break during your travels.
Located in Yanagawa City-known for producing seven notable literary figures including Kitahara Hakushu, Dan Kazuo, and Hase Ken-Karatachi Literary Footbath is a unique spot where literature and relaxation come together. As you soak your feet, you can browse panels introducing these writers through photographs, anecdotes, and excerpts from their works, letting your thoughts drift into their literary worlds.
The footbath uses natural Yanagawa onsen water, offering genuine therapeutic benefits. It is said to be effective for relieving neuralgia, sensitivity to cold, and fatigue, and is well received by visitors. The facility can accommodate up to 70 people at a time, and best of all, it is free to use.
Please note a few rules when using the footbath: do not wash your body, do not use soap, do not allow pets in the footbath, and refrain from drinking alcohol. By observing proper etiquette, you can enjoy a pleasant and relaxing break.
Highlights
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Enjoy information about writers from Yanagawa while soaking in a relaxing footbath.
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Uses natural hot spring water.
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Free to use.
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Please strictly observe the rules, including no pets and no alcohol.
Photos
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A roof is installed, so it can be used even on rainy days.
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)
Sorry, we don’t.
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Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?
Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available for 15 minutes.
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Are coin lockers available?
Not available.
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Are there restrooms available?
Yes, there are.
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Are there any smoking areas?
Not available.
Reviews
Some reviews are AI-translated.
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The atmosphere is really quiet and not too commercialized.
Soaking your feet while looking at the scenery around you, you can slowly feel your whole body relax. It’s a great place to take a break when you’re tired from walking.
It’s not a fancy type of footbath, but the temperature is just right and the surroundings are peaceful. It has this understated, cozy little “simple happiness” vibe.
If you stop by and have a soak while you’re in the area, it definitely makes the trip feel even better.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- からたち文人の足湯
- Postal Code
- 832-0057
- Address
- 9 Yashiromachi, Yanagawa City, Fukuoka
- Telephone
- 0944-73-8111
- Closed
- Irregular closures (may close temporarily or change operating hours due to weather or other circumstances).
- Business Hours
- 11:00am - 3:00pm
- Admission
- Free
- Access
- About 8 minutes by car from Nishitetsu Tenjin Omuta Line’s Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station.
- Official Website
- Official Website (Japanese)