Station Misato Samata no Yu

Discover Serenity in the Heart of Kumamoto’s Natural Beauty

Tucked along National Route 218, Misato Samata no Yu is a vibrant roadside station nestled in the serene countryside of Minamiboso, just a short drive from the Shokai IC on the Kyushu Expressway. More than a rest stop, this destination blends wellness, local culture, and natural wonder into a seamless experience. At its heart lies a revitalizing, fully natural hot spring, drawn directly from 24 Kumamoto sources and delivered in a continuous flow—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Guests can soak in scenic outdoor baths while surrounded by lush forests, enjoy seasonal dishes at the on-site restaurant, or shop for regional specialties at the bustling Wakuwaku Market. The station is also a gateway to unforgettable local attractions, including the famed 3,333-step stone staircase and the romantic "Heart Bridge"—a historic stone arch that forms a heart-shaped reflection in the river at sunset. With free Wi-Fi, EV charging, and detailed travel information, Misato Samata no Yu offers convenience without sacrificing authenticity.

Visit Misato Samata no Yu for its rare, naturally forming heart-shaped silhouette at the historic Futamata Bridge—visible only from 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM between October and February, when the stone arch’s reflection in the river creates a perfect heart. This unique phenomenon, recognized as a "lover’s sanctuary," draws couples and photographers from across Japan. Complementing the site, the roadside station offers the region’s only artisanal yamame trout sushi, caught from local streams and served fresh at the on-site restaurant, paired with seasonal dishes like handmade kabocha cheese croquettes and Akaushi beef steak bowl—flavors you can’t find anywhere else.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit the roadside station by 9:00 AM on weekdays to access the full selection of seasonal produce at Wakuwaku Kan, as the most popular items like fresh mountain vegetables and local tofu pickles are often sold out by 11:00 AM.

• Hidden Gems: At the Wakuwaku Kan (farmers’ market), look for the hand-packed "Kabocha Cheese Croquettes" near the front display—they are made daily using locally grown squash and sold only until 1:00 PM.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the restaurant "Ishidai no Gō" between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM to enjoy the seasonal "Yamame Salt-Baked Set" and "Dago Jiru Set," which are not available during weekdays.

• Best Time for Photos: Arrive at Futamata Bridge (Two-Stream Bridge) at 11:30 AM during October through February to capture the heart-shaped reflection of the bridge in the river, which appears for about 30 minutes and is a designated "Lovers’ Holy Land."

• Parking Tip: Use the western parking lot near the EV charging station when visiting during peak hours, as it offers easier access to the restaurant and Wakuwaku Kan, while the main lot fills quickly during events.

• Information Advantage: Access the 24-hour information corner during evening visits to check real-time road conditions and upcoming event schedules, including the annual "Samatano Yū Hot Spring Festival" on October 18, which includes local performances and food stalls.

• Avoid Wait Times: If you plan to use the hot spring facility, arrive before 4:00 PM on weekdays to avoid the mid-afternoon rush, as the facility sees heavy usage after 5:00 PM, especially on weekends.

Spring (March–May): Visit in April for the peak of the sakura health festival and the first fresh bamboo shoots at the market.

Summer (June–August): Enjoy the summer festival and the cool forest adventure park amid lush greenery.

Autumn (September–November): Experience the autumn harvest at the market and the Attack the Japan One event in November.

Winter (December–February): See the heart-shaped bridge reflection at 11:30 AM from October to February, a unique seasonal highlight.