News

We would like to express our deepest sympathies to everyone affected by the 2026 Kumamoto Earthquake.

Our thoughts are with all those who continue to face uncertainty, and we sincerely hope for everyone’s safety and for the earliest possible recovery and reconstruction of the affected areas.

■ Current Operating Status

Following the earthquake, Aso Baien SPA RESORT has conducted inspections of the building, facilities, utilities, and other essential infrastructure.

At this time, no damage that would significantly affect guest accommodations or services has been identified, and we are operating as usual.

As we have received many inquiries from guests regarding our operating status and transportation access, we would like to provide information on the main routes to our resort.

■ For Guests Traveling by Car

◆ From Fukuoka / Saga

Guests traveling from Fukuoka or Saga should exit the Kyushu Expressway at Kumamoto IC and proceed toward Aso via National Route 57.

Kyushu Expressway

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Kumamoto IC

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National Route 57 toward Aso

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Aso Baien SPA RESORT

Our staff have conducted an on-site driving check of the route from Kumamoto IC via National Route 57 to the entrance of the resort. No road closures or traffic restrictions have been confirmed along this route.

◆ From Kumamoto City

From Kumamoto City, please travel toward Kumamoto IC and then take National Route 57 toward Aso.

Our staff have conducted an on-site driving check of the roads from Kumamoto IC to the entrance of the resort, and no road closures or traffic restrictions have been confirmed.

◆ From Aso Kumamoto Airport

From Aso Kumamoto Airport, take Prefectural Route 36 toward Ozu, then from Muro, Ozu Town, proceed toward Aso via National Route 57.

Aso Kumamoto Airport

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Prefectural Route 36 toward Ozu

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Muro, Ozu Town

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National Route 57 toward Aso

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Aso Baien SPA RESORT

Our staff have also conducted an on-site driving check of the route from Muro, Ozu Town to the resort, and no road closures or traffic restrictions have been confirmed.

■ Kyushu Expressway Road Closure Updates

According to NEXCO West Japan, the following section, which had remained closed due to the effects of the 2026 Kumamoto Earthquake, reopened at 6:00 a.m. on August 14.

[Road Closure Lifted]

Kyushu Expressway: Matsubase IC – Ebino IC (both directions)

As a result, all sections of the Kyushu Expressway are currently open to regular passenger vehicles.

However, due to damage to Kawata Bridge between Miyahara SA and Yatsushiro IC, two-way traffic is currently being maintained using the southbound lanes. Traffic congestion may occur depending on the time of day.

Please check the latest traffic information before departure.

[Road Closure Remains in Effect]

Minami-Kyushu Expressway: Yatsushiro JCT – Tanoura IC (both directions)

Guests traveling from the Kagoshima area using the Kyushu Expressway or Minami-Kyushu Expressway should be aware that the above section remains closed.

The standard route to our resort uses National Route 57 from Kumamoto IC and does not pass through any of the above affected sections.

■ For Guests Using Public Transportation

The nearest railway stations are Akamizu Station and Tateno Station on the JR Hohi Main Line.

We have confirmed that trains are currently operating normally at both stations.

(Confirmed by resort staff as of August 14.)

We provide a shuttle service between the resort and Akamizu Station or Tateno Station.

Guests wishing to use the shuttle service are requested to check their train arrival time and contact the resort in advance.

Please note that depending on train operations and shuttle availability, we may not always be able to accommodate your preferred pickup time.

■ Before Your Departure

Road and public transportation conditions may change due to aftershocks, restoration work, weather conditions, or other circumstances.

Before departure, please check the latest information from the following official sources:

NEXCO West Japan – iHighway

https://ihighway.jp/pcsite/

TEL: 0120-924863

(Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year)

Japan Road Traffic Information Center (JARTIC)

https://www.jartic.or.jp/

TEL: 050-3369-6643 (Kumamoto Traffic Information)

For smartphones and mobile phones: #8011

JR Kyushu – Train Operation Information

https://www.jrkyushu.co.jp/trains/info/

TEL: 0570-04-1717

(JR Kyushu Customer Service Center, 9:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.)

If you have any questions regarding your stay or transportation access, please feel free to contact us.

Aso Baien SPA RESORT

Information confirmed and updated as of August 14, 2026