About an hour’s drive from Fukuoka City, located right on the banks of the Chikugo River, sits Harazuru Onsen Enmeikan, a historic inn that has been open since the Taisho era. We spoke with the fourth-generation owner, Mr. Inoue, to learn more about the unique appeal of their spring water, their dedication to the cuisine, and the deep meaning behind the name of the inn.
Mr. Inoue, the fourth-generation owner of Enmeikan.
With the concept of “a feast for the mind and body,” he shared his passion for creating a truly relaxing experience for every guest.
Enmeikan in Asakura, Fukuoka.
With every room offering views of the Chikugo River, the property’s biggest draw is its restorative springs, famous for promoting health and longevity.
The Healing Power of a Rare, Naturally Mild Beauty Spring
—Thank you for speaking with us today. To start, could you tell us about the unique characteristics of the Harazuru Onsen area?
Mr. Inoue: Harazuru Onsen is surrounded by beautiful nature, and it has long been famous for producing delicious fruit. Recently, our hot spring has become popular as a dual-action beauty spring. It is unique because it combines two different components that are great for your skin: an alkaline simple hot spring and a sulfur spring.
—It is quite rare to find those two types of water combined in one place, isn’t it?
Mr. Inoue: Yes, it is. At our inn, we purposely keep this water at a lukewarm temperature. By soaking slowly and taking your time, you can enjoy excellent health benefits without putting any unnecessary stress on your body. Many people come here specifically for hot spring therapy, and they love how deeply restorative the experience feels.
Inheriting the Vision of the Founder Who Started Over at Age 50
—The name Enmeikan, which means life-extending inn, is incredibly memorable. What is the story behind it?
Mr. Inoue: Actually, our founder was originally a professional well digger. When he turned 50, he made a big life decision because he wanted to discover a hot spring in his beloved hometown, and that is how this inn began. He chose the name with a wish for the inn to last a long time, and a wish for the health of our guests, believing that soaking in our water would extend your life.
—It truly is a place built around the idea of extending life. As the fourth-generation owner, how do you feel about carrying on this legacy?
Mr. Inoue: I feel a strong sense of responsibility to protect our historic name and the spirit of hospitality passed down by previous generations, while also preserving an environment where we can live in harmony with nature.
Seasonal Local Dining and a Quiet Space to Slow Down
—The meals at your inn receive wonderful reviews online. Tell us a bit about your cuisine.
Mr. Inoue: Thank you. We serve course meals that blend Japanese and Western styles. Lately, we have been incorporating more Western elements to create a unique dining experience. We use seasonal ingredients gathered from local areas like Asakura and Ukiha. The local fruits we serve for dessert, such as persimmons and Kyoho grapes, are always a massive hit with our guests.
—The view from the rooms is also incredible.
Mr. Inoue: Every single guest room looks out over the Chikugo River. We want our guests to listen to the flowing river and the singing birds, forget their busy daily routines, and enjoy the true luxury of having absolutely nothing to do.
Welcoming Travelers Back to Their Home Away from Home
— Is there a specific philosophy you guide your staff with when welcoming guests?
Mr. Inoue: Our concept is a feast for the mind and body. We think it is important to give guests their space and maintain a perfect, comfortable distance, helping them out without interrupting their relaxing time.
—I understand you have a lot of repeat guests.
Mr. Inoue: Yes. The happiest moment for us is when a returning guest walks through the door and says, “I’m back.” It makes me feel like they truly view our inn as a second home.
—While protecting these traditions, you are also introducing some fun new ideas, correct?
Mr. Inoue: I believe it is necessary to adapt to the times while keeping our core values alive. For example, we added dome tents during the pandemic, created a rooftop lounge where guests can enjoy the view with a coffee, and even hid a character I designed named Morio-kun around the building for guests to find. We want this to be a place where people can spend time exactly how they like, creating lasting memories.
A story that began with a founder’s passionate dream to discover a hot spring in his hometown has been carried forward for 95 years to a fourth generation, living on today as a place to cherish life.
With river-view rooms that look out over the gentle waters of the Chikugo River, a creative menu that showcases the local seasons, and a comforting bath experience utilizing a rare dual-action beauty spring, Enmeikan is far more than just a place to stay. It has become a peaceful retreat where travelers can truly restore their well-being. By honoring the original prayer for health and long life built into its name, the inn continues to gently evolve, offering a perfect balance of history and modern comfort.
Interviewer: Yohei Osaki
Translation: Alyssa Rossi
Enmeikan
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