Yunoko Onsen

Yunoko Onsen (湯の児温泉) is a picturesque hot spring resort nestled along the scenic coastline just north of central Minamata. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and sea-facing location, the area features several traditional ryokan offering rooms and open-air baths with panoramic ocean views. These inns provide an ideal setting for relaxation, combining soothing thermal waters with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. Many also welcome day visitors, allowing travelers to enjoy the hot springs without an overnight stay for a modest fee ranging from 300 to 800 yen.

Just offshore, Yunoko Island is accessible via a small pedestrian bridge and offers a peaceful escape into nature. The island features gentle walking trails, scenic coastal views, and a small shrine perched at its summit—an ideal spot for quiet reflection. As night falls and the tide rises, a stroll around the island becomes an unforgettable experience: the crashing waves, rustling trees, and distant animal calls create a mysterious, almost cinematic atmosphere reminiscent of an Indiana Jones adventure.