Sekizenkan is said to be the inspiration for the bathhouse in the Ghibli film 'Spirited Away.' I was lucky enough to stay in the 'Sansou,' which is usually hard to book! There are three types of accommodations: Honkan, Sansou, and Kashoutei. Honkan is the most affordable with a simple hot spring plan, while Sansou and Kashoutei are more upscale. Even in Sansou, the hospitality was fantastic and I had a wonderful time inside the inn. Dinner was a healthy Japanese kaiseki meal, and you could really tell each dish was carefully prepared. The hot spring water is gentle, and I can see why it's called the 'finishing bath' of Kusatsu. This is a hot spring inn with a high satisfaction rate—I want to come back every few years. Next time, I can't decide whether to stay in Honkan or Kashoutei!
Sekizenkan | Review by mizuiro_lawson
Other Reviews by mizuiro_lawson
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Chojabaru Visitor Center
The Chojabaru Visitor Center sits at the trailhead of the Kuju mountain range and doubles as a museum space that details the local history and surrounding nature. From nature and animals to details about the Tadewara Wetlands, there are countless resources available to help make your visit even more enjoyable.
It's nice that you can park here and explore, using it as a base for mountain climbing and hiking. It's also a pleasant place to have some tea and take a break during a drive or motorcycle tour!
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Yamanami Highway
The Yamanami Highway is the nickname for Prefectural Route 11, which runs from Beppu in Oita Prefecture to Ichinomiya in Kumamoto Prefecture. The route offers a refreshing drive with sweeping views of the majestic Kuju Mountain Range and other stunning scenery.
When you think of the Yamanami Highway, you think of Chojabaru. It's the quintessential route for road trips and motorcycle tours in Kyushu! Since it's at a high elevation, the highlands are comfortable even in summer. It's a great road I'd love to drive again and again!
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Hibari Cafe
Located on the grounds of Hibari Kobo, a workshop renowned for its sausages, hams, and bacon crafted with high-quality pork, a special spice blend, and fresh spring water from Aso. The workshop boasts accolades, including a gold medal from a prestigious German meat competition. At the on-site cafe, you can savor hot dogs made with their signature sausages.
I stopped by for lunch during a motorcycle tour around Kyushu. On the spacious grounds, there’s a cafe, a pizza and grill restaurant, and a sausage workshop. There’s also a bike garage in the same row that you can take a peek at.
This time I went into the restaurant and ordered the hearty “Akaushi Grill Rider”! It was packed with meat and really filled me up.
Definitely stop by if you’re exploring the Aso area! Especially recommended for motorcycle riders!! -
