Sakura-mon Gate

The Sakura-mon Gate (楼門) is the striking red entrance to Takeo Onsen, one of Kyushu’s oldest and most picturesque hot spring towns. First built in 1915, this traditional wooden gate with its elegant pillars and classic tiled roof has become a symbol of Takeo’s long history as a haven for travelers and bathers. The vivid vermilion color is both eye-catching and deeply rooted in Japanese tradition, reflecting centuries of local culture and hospitality. For generations, feudal lords, artists, and weary pilgrims passed through Sakura-mon to seek rest in the famous bathhouses beyond—a tradition that continues to this day. Stepping under its archway feels like entering another era, where mineral-rich waters and soothing baths have provided comfort for over a thousand years.

Today, the Sakura-mon Gate stands just a short walk from Takeo Onsen Station, serving as the grand entrance to a world of relaxation. Inside the gate, you’ll find the historic public bathhouses that have welcomed guests for over a century, their architecture preserving the charm and rituals of the past. The area is also dotted with inviting tea shops, peaceful lanes, and lovingly preserved buildings that capture the atmosphere of old Japan. The gate is particularly enchanting when illuminated at night or framed by cherry blossoms in spring, making it a favorite spot for photographs.