Fukuoka is an excellent base for exploring some of Japan’s most memorable spa and hot springs experiences, thanks to its proximity to volcanic landscapes, charming onsen towns, and cultural sites. Whether you’re after an adventurous day exploring Aso Volcano’s active craters, or prefer soaking in traditional hot springs with mountain views, Fukuoka offers a variety of options. We especially like the Aso Vocano, Grassland, Onsen and Aso Shrine 1-Day Tour for its combination of natural wonders and cultural sights, as it gives visitors a well-rounded experience of Kyushu’s volcanic power and spiritual heritage.
If relaxing in a hot spring is your main goal, the Kyushu Beppu Suginoi Onsen Tour stands out for its focus on Beppu’s famous hot springs and the opportunity to enjoy an open-air bath overlooking Beppu Bay. For a more comprehensive day trip that mixes nature, geothermal activity, and charming towns, the Fukuoka Beppu Hot Springs and Yufuin Day Tour offers a broad look at Kyushu’s geothermal marvels. Each of these tours is worth considering depending on your interests—whether it’s scenery, culture, or pure relaxation.
1. Aso Vocano, Grassland, Onsen and Aso Shrine 1-Day Tour
At number 1, this tour combines visiting the iconic Aso Volcano, its surrounding grasslands, a relaxing onsen experience, and a visit to Aso Shrine. It’s a full day packed with natural beauty and cultural highlights. Starting from Fukuoka, your day kicks off with a comfortable bus ride out to the Aso region, famous for its active volcano and expansive caldera. You get to stand near the Nakadake Crater, where clouds of smoke rise from the earth—a powerful reminder of Japan’s volcanic activity.
The tour includes a visit to Kusasenri, a vast grassland with spectacular views of the volcanic peaks, perfect for photos or a leisurely walk. The highlight for many is the opportunity to get close to Mount Aso’s crater, where the landscape vibrates with the earth’s energy. The tour also visits Aso Shrine, a site that blends history and spirituality. The experience is rated 5.0/5, and guests praise the well-organized trip, friendly guide Lina, and the chance to see live volcanic activity.
Bottom line: This tour offers a great mix of nature, culture, and relaxation, ideal for travelers wanting a full-day adventure with memorable scenery and insights into Japan’s volcanic heart.
2. Kyushu Beppu Suginoi Onsen Tour
Number 2 is all about hot spring indulgence. The Kyushu Beppu Suginoi Onsen Tour makes visiting Kyushu’s famous hot springs effortless, with transfers included in a private vehicle. This private tour is perfect for those who want a hassle-free day exploring hot spring towns and enjoying authentic onsen baths.
The trip features Yufuin Onsen, a renowned hot spring village filled with art galleries, cafes, and boutique shops, along with a visit to Suginoi Palace’s outdoor bath, which offers panoramic views of Beppu Bay. The tour’s unique selling point is the open-air bath of Suginoi Palace, which is designed like terraced rice paddies, offering incredible vistas as you relax in steaming waters. Priced at $198.98, it’s on the higher end, but the private transportation and flexibility justify the cost for many travelers.
Guests comment that the trip is very comfortable and includes some of Kyushu’s best hot spring experiences. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a relaxing day with minimal planning and maximum comfort.
Bottom line: For a seamless, personalized onsen experience with spectacular views, this tour is ideal—especially if relaxation and comfort are your priorities.
$198.98 per person
3. Fukuoka Day Trip to Yufuin, Beppu Hell Onsen and Animal Park
Number 3 brings together nature, hot springs, and local charm in one full day trip from Fukuoka. Beginning with the peaceful town of Yufuin, you stroll around Kinrin Lake, known for its steam rising from the water and its tranquil atmosphere. The tour then takes you to Kyushu’s Natural Animal Park, a hit with families and animal lovers, for a close encounter with wildlife.
Finally, you visit Beppu’s “Hells”—a series of steaming, vividly colored geothermal springs that are as beautiful as they are otherworldly. The trip offers a well-rounded mix of scenic beauty, wildlife, and geothermal activity. Rated 5.0/5, travelers love their guide JYO for her knowledge and friendly approach.
This tour is best suited for those wanting a diverse experience that combines nature, animal encounters, and geothermal wonders, all in one day. It’s perfect for families or anyone looking for a versatile adventure.
Bottom line: A good full-day option that combines multiple interests, especially for those wanting a mix of wildlife and geothermal sightseeing.
$78.85 per person
4. Fukuoka Beppu Hot Springs and Yufuin Day Tour
Number 4 offers a more relaxed exploration of Kyushu’s hot springs and charming towns. Starting with a visit to Nyoirinji Frog Temple, famous for its quirky frog statues, the tour then takes you to Beppu’s Jigoku (“Hell”) tour, a series of steaming, colorful geothermal ponds that showcase the region’s volcanic activity.
In Yufuin, you’ll have about two hours of free time to wander Yunotsubo Street, enjoy local snacks, or relax by Lake Kinrin, which is especially lovely in the early morning or evening light. The tour blends geothermal sights with local culture, making it perfect for travelers interested in both natural wonders and local flavor. With a 4.5/5 rating, the tour is appreciated for its organized itinerary and friendly guides, although some travelers note it’s a long day.
This trip is ideal for those who want to see the “Hells” of Beppu but also get a taste of the quaintness of Yufuin. It’s good value at around $71.05 per person.
Bottom line: An accessible, fun day tour blending geothermal wonders with casual exploration of Yufuin’s streets and lakes.
5. Fukuoka: Mt. Aso Volcano & Kurokawa Onsen Scenic Day Tour
Number 5 offers a balanced mix of active volcano exploration and relaxing onsen. This tour takes you to Aso Mountain, where you can hike around the volcano’s active crater, and visit Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine, a spiritual site with striking stone carvings. Then, unwind in Kurokawa Onsen, famous for its 1000-year-old hot springs and rustic bathhouses.
Rated 3.6/5, the tour is appreciated for its diverse itinerary and scenic stops. The highlight is the chance to see Aso’s volcanic landscape up close and soak in traditional Kurokawa Onsen baths. It’s suited for active travelers who enjoy a bit of hiking and cultural sites, combined with relaxation. The full day costs around $79, offering good value considering the mix of activities.
Guests mention that the Kumanoimasu Shrine was a special highlight, blending nature with spirituality. The balance of mountain, shrine, and hot springs makes this a well-rounded adventure.
Bottom line: This tour appeals to travelers wanting a combination of outdoor activity and onsen relaxation in one trip.
$79 per person
6. Aso Kusasenrigahama and Kurokawa Onsen Full Day Tour from Fukuoka
Number 6 is a full-day journey that combines the vast grasslands of Kusasenri, the active crater of Aso, and a soothing soak in Kurokawa Onsen. Priced at $76.99, this tour is well-suited for travelers eager to see Kyushu’s volcanic landscape and then unwind in a traditional hot spring village.
Guests note that the trip is very well organized and provides sufficient time at each site. The highlight is standing on the rim of Mount Aso’s caldera, feeling the earth’s heat beneath your feet, then relaxing in Kurokawa’s peaceful baths. Although some reviews mention it’s a long day, most agree it’s a good value for the variety of experiences offered.
This is an excellent choice for nature lovers who want to see volcanic landscapes and enjoy traditional onsen afterward. The tour also provides opportunities to take photos and explore at your own pace.
Bottom line: A comprehensive, value-packed day for those wanting landscape, culture, and relaxation in one trip.
$76.99 per person
7. Mt. Aso Crater, Kusasenri and Kurokawa Onsen Tour from Fukuoka
Number 7 is a slightly more flexible day focusing on Kusasenri, Mt. Aso Crater, and Kurokawa Onsen. This tour offers a clear itinerary with stops for photo opportunities and walking around the grasslands and volcanic sites. The visit to Nakadake Crater depends on volcanic activity and weather, with an alternative Daikanbo Observatory offered if needed.
Priced at $48.28, it’s a budget-friendly option for those who want to experience Aso’s volcanic scenery without a lengthy day. The tour receives mixed reviews, mainly because of potential crater closures or weather-related changes, but those who enjoy mountain landscapes and hot springs find it rewarding.
This is ideal for travelers who want an affordable, flexible tour that covers the essential sights at Aso and Kurokawa Onsen.
Bottom line: Suitable for budget-conscious visitors who are flexible with their schedule and want a straightforward, scenic experience.
$48.28 per person
8. Kyushu Aso Volcano Kusasenri and Kurokawa Onsen Day Tour from Fukuoka
Finally, number 8 combines Aso Volcano, Kusasenri, and Kurokawa Onsen into one day. It’s a well-rounded option that covers volcanic landscapes and hot springs, with a focus on nature and relaxation. The tour is priced at about $108, and while it doesn’t include the same level of detail as some others, it provides a balanced overview perfect for travelers wanting a full day of scenic highlights.
Perfect for those who want to see Kyushu’s volcanic large caldera and then unwind at Kurokawa’s traditional baths. The tour is suitable for those who prefer a moderate pace and want to experience both natural wonders and hot springs.
Bottom line: This tour is a versatile choice for travelers seeking landscape, culture, and relaxation in one seamless day.
$108.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Spa & Hot Springs Experience
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, how much active exploration you want, and whether relaxation is your priority. If you love adventure and scenery, the Aso Vocano, Grassland, Onsen and Aso Shrine 1-Day Tour offers a fantastic blend of both. For luxury and comfort, the Kyushu Beppu Suginoi Onsen Tour provides private transfers and stunning baths with scenic views.
If you want a more diverse experience that includes wildlife and geothermal activity, the Fukuoka Day Trip to Yufuin, Beppu Hell Onsen, and Animal Park might be your best bet. Those looking for value and flexibility can opt for the budget-friendly Mt. Aso Crater, Kusasenri, and Kurokawa Onsen Tour.
Booking early, especially for popular tours like the Beppu Onsen visits, will ensure you secure your preferred date. Consider the season—spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather for combining outdoor exploration and onsen visits.
Fukuoka offers a wide array of spas and hot springs options that suit every type of traveler. Whether you’re after a full-day adventure with volcanic views or a luxurious soak with an ocean view, these tours provide a glimpse into Kyushu’s geothermal treasures. For the best experience, think about your interests, budget, and how much physical activity you’re comfortable with—and book early to enjoy a seamless, memorable soak in Japan’s natural hot springs.