Takeo Onsen Motoyu (武雄温泉 元湯)

Flow of the course

About this spot

The symbol of Takeo Onsen (武雄温泉), with more than 1,300 years of history, is its gate designed by Tatsuno Kingo (辰野金吾), which is designated a National Important Cultural Property. Motoyu (元湯) is a beloved, old-fashioned public bathhouse among locals, and its casual, easy-to-visit open-air bath is popular with families too. The mildly alkaline, sodium-rich water is gentle on the skin, and its light, smooth feel is refreshing even in summer. The gate's red set against the summer blue sky makes for one of Saga's classic photo spots. Refresh your body and mind in this relaxed hot spring before the night of fireworks.

Tips

About 7 minutes on foot from JR Takeo-Onsen Station (JR武雄温泉駅). Bathing costs around 500 yen for adults (rates may change, so check locally). Store valuables in a locker. Bring your own towel or buy one on site. The changing room gets tight when crowded, so packing kids' belongings into a small bag makes things easier.

Best time to visit

About 1 hour 15 minutes. Earlier in the day tends to draw more locals and fewer tourists, so you can bathe at a relaxed pace

Access & map

〒843-0022 Saga Prefecture, Takeo City, Takeo-machi, Takeo ７４２５