Hello, everyone! While I normally review public hotspring bath facilities, I found a wonderful hotel of hotsprings for tourists and wanted to share it. This article is my report of THE ACONCAGUA RESORTS, a hidden resort hotel in Southern Aso, Kumamoto Prefecture, which I visited during the 2025 summer vacation.
The time spent in this sophisicated space, surrounded by the great nature of Mt. Aso, was truly an “unforgettable experience.” It was a vacation with my familly, and it was one of the best hotel where both adults and children can refresh themselves. I strongly recommend to those who want to fully enjoy Aso’s nature while avoiding crowds, and who want to enjoy a hotspring and Pool in a luxury setting. I’ve also included plenty of Aso tourist sightseeing spots information, so please read until the end!
Approximately 30 minutes by car from Aso Kumamoto Airport, and about 50 minutes from the Kumamoto Interchange. Despite being in the heart of Aso’s vast nature, it’s conveniently located as a base for sightseeing. Driving with a map of the surrounding area is one of the joys of travel!
“It’s new and incredibly clean. The view from the infinity Pool is amazing, and it’s beautifully lit up at night for a magical atmosphere. It’s truly an escape from the ordinary.”
“The staff’s hospitality was wonderful. They greeted us politely upon arrival and showed great attention to detail throughout our stay.”
“The private bath was the best! It was the ultimate luxury to be able to enjoy a hotspring while gazing at the Aso mountains with just my family.”
“The food was truly delicious. The Kumamoto specialty Akaushi steak was superb. It looked beautiful and was very satisfying.”
“Since there are only a few rooms, it’s very quiet. We didn’t feel crowded at all, even during the busy Obon season, and were able to relax in the lounge and by the Pool”
“From the welcome drink to the complimentary drinks in the lounge, I felt that the hospitality was thorough down to every last detail.”
“We came with our children. The Poot is deep, so you have to be careful with small kids, but older children will have a blast. It was great to be able to relax without worrying about other people.”
“Our room was stylish and comfortable. It was functional, with everything you need compactly arranged. The view of the greenery from the window was so healing.”
“The quality of the hotspring water was excellent. The water was slightly warm, which made it so comfortable that you could stay in forever. My skin felt so smooth afterward.”
“I was surprised by the variety and quality of the breakfast. It was a Japanese-style meal using lots of local ingredients, and everything was delicately flavored and delicious.”
“The location is fantastic. It’s easy to get to Aso’s tourist spots, and you can come back to the hotel for a quiet rest. It’s an ideal spot.”
“We stayed for our anniversary, and the staff helped us with a surprise, creating a wonderful memory. I can’t thank them enough.”
“The hotel felt cozy, with both an emphasis on the facilities and the warmth of the staff’s service. I definitely want to return.”
Comments to improve
“The food was delicious, but I was a bit surprised that the dining area was a section of the lobby rather than a dedicated restaurant.”
“The temperature of the private bath might feel a bit lukewarm depending on the season. It would be great if they could adjust it for those who prefer hotter water.”
“There are many stairs, and some areas are not barrier-free. It was a bit difficult for my elderly parents to move around.”
“It would be helpful if the breakfast started a bit earlier for those who want to start their sightseeing early.”
Summary: Score: 4.40
Score Summary
Unforgettable Experience: 5/5
Activities: 3/5
Hot Spring/Baths: 5/5
Facilities: 5/5
Food: 5/5
Overall Score: 4.40/5
Comments
This new hotel achieves a very high level of quality as an accessible luxury retreat. It’s perfect for those who want to relax in the stunning nature of Aso and enjoy a hotspring and Poot in a secluded, uncrowded setting. The greatest appeal of this hotel is its one-of-a-kind location on Mt. Aso, a certified UNESCO Global Geopark. The vast caldera and the lush green landscape created by the volcanic terrain provide an overwhelming sense of the extraordinary and deep healing.
I visited in the middle of summer vacation, the busiest time of the year. However, with its concept of “small luxury” and only 12 rooms, we rarely saw other guests. We were able to fully enjoy our private time without worrying about others. Of course, since it’s near Kumamoto’s Aso, a world-class volcanic region, the hotspring is guaranteed to be excellent. The private open-air bath, in particular, is a highlight. Soaking in the bath while gazing at the vast mountains of Aso is pure bliss.
And the food, a major part of any trip, was truly exceptional. The brand-name Akaushi beef steak and the creative dishes using local ingredients were delicious. The staff’s thoughtful service in smoothly serving each dish at a comfortable pace was also impressive. The portions were generous, and even for a big eater like me, it was very satisfying.
While not an inexpensive stay, the experience you get is worth more than the price. This hotel is for those seeking a quiet, high-quality “adult luxury” experience for a true refresh, rather than a bustling resort. If you are planning a special trip that will create lasting memories, I highly recommend you visit THE ACONCAGUA RESORTS.
(I made my reservation on Yahoo Travel. It seems to have the best prices recently.)
Unforgettable Experience (Score 5.0)
View of Mt. Aso
When you talk about this hotel or sightseeing in the Kumamoto Aso area, you absolutely cannot forget the stunning landscape created by Mt. Aso. You can feel the dynamic history of the Earth’s activity with all your senses. Mt. Aso is a double-volcano, a very rare geographical feature. You can see the main peaks inside a massive caldera, with dwellings and fields in the basin and another ring of mountains of the same height surrounding it. It makes you wonder just how immense Mt. Aso was originally!
What makes the Aso landscape even more unique is the vast grassland, typified by Kusasenrigahama. While you usually imagine dense forests on a mountain, Aso has an endless expanse of grassland. This is a result of a thousand years of controlled burning and the grazing of Akaushi cattle, which prevent the area from turning into forest. It’s a miraculous landscape created by the coexistence of the Earth’s raw energy and the lives of the people who live there.
Can you find black cows in the picture below? (about 10 cows)
ACONCAGUA, one of the best place to enjoy the View
And THE ACONCAGUA RESORTS is built in the perfect location to savor this spectacular Aso scenery. The hotel’s design philosophy is centered on “integration with nature.” This is evident everywhere, from the location of the Poot and private baths to the size of the windows in the rooms.
The most impressive part was the view from the private bath. When you soak in the open-air bath, your view is completely filled by the magnificent Aso mountain range. Having this incredible view all to yourself is an unbelievably luxury experience. This is the true essence of the “unforgettable escape” that Aconcagua offers
Activities (Score: 3)
This hotel is designed for a quiet stay, so it’s different from large-scale resorts with many facilities. The main activities are the Pool and nearby sightseeing spots.
The Pool: Simply Beautiful Views and Water
The infinity Pool at Aconcagua, designed to blend with Aso’s nature, is truly iconic. During the day, it reflects the blue sky and green mountains, and at night, it’s illuminated for a magical atmosphere. What stands out is how uncrowded it is. With only 12 rooms, the Pool is never packed. Even during Obon, we were often the only ones there and could swim freely. The water quality is also excellent, surprisingly clean and clear. It’s a heated Pool, so you can use it comfortably regardless of the weather.
It’s important to note that this is not a Pool for playing with beach balls or making a lot of noise. It’s a more adult space for quiet relaxation, perhaps with a book. That said, older kids will be thrilled to swim here. We were happy to find snacks and drinks like chips, juice, beer, and wine are provided free of charge at a mini-bar area by the Pool. It was heavenly!
Kumamoto Tourism/Sightseeing Spots
While relaxing at the hotel is great, I highly recommend you also enjoy sightseeing in Kumamoto!
Why in Kumamoto? A Journey to See the “ONE PIECE” Statues
As you travel through Kumamoto, you’ll encounter bronze statues of characters from the popular manga ONE PIECE. You might wonder why they’re here, but there’s a profound reason. The series’ author, Eiichiro Oda, is from Kumamoto, and the “ONE PIECE Kumamoto Reconstruction Project” was launched to support recovery from the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake. As part of this, statues of the Straw Hat Pirates were installed in nine affected municipalities. For example, you’ll find captain “Luffy” at the Prefectural Office, sniper “Usopp” at Aso Station (which suffered heavy damage), and archaeologist “Robin” in Minamiaso Village. Each character’s story is linked to the recovery wishes of that area, making a tour of the statues a way to feel the progress of reconstruction. It’s a perfect tourist plan for a family vacation, like a stamp rally! Personally, the signs of the earthquake I saw near the Robin statue were more visceral than I expected.
Near Statue of Robin, there was a display which is school building disrupted by earthquake.
Ajisen Ramen: A Global Chain from Kumamoto
The world-famous “Ajisen Ramen” chain actually originated right here in Kumamoto. It’s a classic example of Kumamoto ramen, featuring a rich tonkotsu (pork bone) soup infused with ma-yu (black garlic oil). There are branches easily accessible from Aconcagua, so why not stop for lunch? The combination of the hearty soup and medium-thick straight noodles is addictively delicious.
Feel the Earth’s Breath! Visiting the Mt. Aso Crater
If you’re in Aso, you must see the Nakadake Crater to experience volcanic activity up close. The emerald-green crater lake and the billowing smoke are truly a sight to behold. However, access to the crater is often restricted due to volcanic gas concentrations. Before you go, be sure to check the latest information on the official “Aso Volcano Crater Regulation Information” website.
Mt. Aso’s Nature Activities: Horse Riding & Hot Air Balloons
For an experience straight out of a movie, try horseback riding through Aso’s magnificent grasslands at “El Patio Ranch.” They offer various programs for all skill levels. We couldn’t fit it into our schedule this time, but I’m sure it’s an unforgettable memory. If you’re looking for more active adventures, “Aso Nature Land” is the place to go. They offer paragliding, hot air balloon rides, and “Pockar” (a three-wheeled buggy), allowing you to experience Aso’s charm from both the sky and the ground.
Hot Spring & Baths (Score: 5)
Features of ACONCAGUA hotspring
The hotspring at Aconcagua draws its water from the “Tochigi Onsen,” which has long been cherished as a therapeutic spring. The water is a “sulfate spring,” known for its healing properties, such as preventing high blood pressure and arteriosclerosis, and helping with cuts and skin conditions. The water is set at a slightly lukewarm temperature and is non-irritating, so you can soak for a long time. It warms you from the core, and the warmth lasts even after you get out.
Aconcagua’s Hot Spring Facilities
Indoor Bath: A spacious, clean indoor bath with large windows. The washing area is partitioned for privacy. It’s a great place to warm up before heading to the open-air bath
Open-Air Bath: A picturesque rock-style bath right outside the indoor one. You can enjoy the vast Aso mountains during the day or a star-filled sky at night.
Rock bath：Close to open-air bath. (I couldn’t use due to heavy rain)
Private Bath: The symbol of Aconcagua’s hotsprings. You can use it once for free. I was worried we wouldn’t get a slot, but the hotel assured me that with only 12 rooms, it’s almost always available. The view from here is indescribable. It’s the best facility for those who want to cherish a private moment with the sounds of the running water and the scent of the mountains.
Facilities (Score: 5)
New and Clean. Also lots of detail stories
As a relatively new hotel, Aconcagua’s facilities are immaculate and have a modern, sophisticated design. There’s no flashy decor; instead, the high-quality materials, calculated lighting, and the “borrowed scenery” of nature outside the window serve as the best interior. The rooms are incredibly comfortable, with everything you need arranged functionally. The large window in my room offered a view of Aso’s lush greenery, a true luxury.
Plates/Dished are order-made by famous Arita-Yaki crafter.
Again, no need to explain too much this infinity pool with special views and very clean water.
Food （Score 5.0）
The dining experience can make or break a trip, and to be honest, I was a little nervous before we arrived. The hotel’s website described the food as a full-course meal using specially selected Aso ingredients. I wondered if it would be overly artistic or unusual. I was proven wrong in the best way possible.
Every dish was a creative masterpiece that brought out the best in the seasonal ingredients from Aso. The food was delicious and approachable for anyone. And what’s more, the portions were very generous! The main course was steak made with Kumamoto’s famous brand of wagyu beef, Akaushi. The staff’s service was impeccable, ensuring each dish was served at a comfortable pace.
A Recommendation of Akaushi Beef
Akaushi beef, known for its leaner, red meat, is different from the heavily marbled Kuroge Wagyu. It’s raised in the vast grasslands of Aso and has a perfect tenderness with a satisfying chew. It’s also an interesting fact that the Akaushi cattle help maintain the beautiful grasslands of Aso by grazing there. Knowing this made the meal even more special.
Hidden Gem: Soba Noodles
The soba noodles served near the end of the meal were also delicious. Aso is actually a famous soba-producing region, with popular soba restaurants.
Photos, please enjoy both meals and quaint plates
Breakfast
Summary
THE ACONCAGUA RESORTS was a one-of-a-kind hotel where we could experience the magnificent nature of Mt. Aso in the best possible way. The sophisticated facilities, thoughtful cuisine, and, most importantly, the wonderful hotspring, Pool, and views make it the ultimate hidden resort for anyone who wants to escape and find true relaxation.
If you are planning a tourist trip to Kumamoto‘s Aso and want to enjoy a quiet, adult experience, I highly recommend this hotel. I hope this article is a helpful recommendation for your next vacation!
(I made my reservation on Yahoo Travel. It seems to have the best prices recently.)
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