Sumoto Onsen Center Kappa Roman-kan, in Minamata, Kumamoto, delivers thermal water at 40°C, complemented by an indoor bath, an outdoor rotenburo and a sauna.
Insider tip — Sumoto Onsen Center Kappa Roman-kan is a community thermal facility near Minamata in Kumamoto, named after the kappa water sprite of Japanese folklore who was said to inhabit the local thermal streams. The mild alkaline waters offer a soothing soak that belies the simple, unpretentious bathhouse setting. The kappa mascot murals throughout the facility delight younger visitors and add a whimsical folkloric dimension to the bathing experience. A good base for exploring the regenerated natural coastline of Minamata Bay.