Featured Articles

Amami’s First Onsen

Opened in April 2024, HanaHana Beach resort in Yamato Village is the perfect place to relax and unwind surrounded by the nature of Amami. It offers striking views over the ocean from its baths and terrace, and you can go down to enjoy the ocean for yourself at the beach site area.

With glamping and barbecue available it's perfect for a weekend trip, but even just a day trip will give you a taste of its various offerings. While the barbecue and island cuisine party course require prior reservation, there is also a restaurant in the onsen area of the resort. When you come to the resort, you receive a wristband with a key to a locker and a unique bar code to log all your purchases. So, there’s no need to grab your wallet from the lockers–just let the waiter scan your code.

HanaHana Beach Resort is home to Amami’s first onsen. There are other public baths on the island, but only this one has tapped into the mineral-rich hot spring water that makes an onsen more than a simple bath.

When you arrive, be sure to grab a bag that includes towels and loungewear. The shower area provides soap and shampoo, so there’s nothing you need to bring. There's also combs and hairdryers available for use. Just be sure to put the comb in the used pile when you’re done.

There is also a swimming pool, equipped with a slide and a jumping area. The design of the pool is taken after one of the rivers of Amami to create a unique pool experience. Some onsen water is also mixed into the pool water to add more of a natural flair.

If you didn’t go into the sauna in the onsen, there is a large coed sauna by the pool as well for the entire family to enjoy! Please bring or purchase your own swimsuit to enjoy the pool and poolside sauna.

An Amami woodcock spotted on the road to HanaHana

While open until the evening, please note the travel time between your accommodation and Yamato Village. Since the location is off the beaten path, surrounded by Amami’s nature, at night you may even encounter some of the rare animals of the island! Just be sure to drive safely as you enjoy the night adventure.

For more information please see the HanaHana Beach Resort website:
・https://www.amamihanahana.com/

Please note that these photos were taken with the permission of HanaHana Beach Resort before opening hours. Visitors are not permitted to take photos in the onsen or changing areas.