A legendary hot spring resort where Japanese history lives on
What's Kirishima like?
Photo taken from above Kirishima CityThe “Ameno Sakahoko” at the summit of Mount Takachiho“Oonami Pond”
Kirishima City is located almost at the center of mainland Kagoshima Prefecture and is known as a land of magnificent nature and living mythology.
Nestled within the Kirishima Mountains(*¹), this area forms part of Japan's first designated national park, Kirishima-Kinko Bay National Park, where visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons.
Mount Takachiho, where legends of the Tenson Kōrin (*²) remain, and the solemn Kirishima Shrine (*³) are among the many places where history and faith run deep, quietly soothing the hearts of visitors.
Additionally, the steam-filled hot spring resorts and the local cuisine that makes the most of regional bounty are also major attractions. The gifts of nature are deeply reflected not only in tourism but also in the daily life and culture of the local community.
By experiencing locally rooted industries and traditions such as agricultural products, shochu, and crafts, you will surely feel the profound charm of Kirishima even more deeply.
Every visit brings new discoveries and encounters. A town enveloped in nature, history, hot springs, and the warmth of its people—that is Kirishima.
(*1) The Kirishima Mountains is the collective name for a group of more than 20 volcanoes stretching along the border between Miyazaki and Kagoshima Prefectures. Volcanic activity is frequent, and access restrictions based on eruption alert levels remain in place at Mount Shinmoedake and other locations. The highest peak is Mount Karakuni at 1,700 meters. The area is home to many scenic spots, such as Ebino Highlands and Lake Oonami, and forms part of Kirishima-Kinko Bay National Park, which is renowned for its alpine azaleas, hot springs, and diverse natural beauty. Furthermore, the Kirishima mountain range is one of Japan’s rainiest regions, with annual precipitation reaching over 4,500 millimeters. This is due to geographical factors: moist air tends to gather around the volcano and collide with the mountain slopes. This abundant rainfall is absorbed into the earth and emerges as plentiful natural spring water.
Aerial photograph of the Kirishima Mountains
(*²)The grandson of Amaterasu Ōmikami, the supreme deity in Japanese mythology, Ninigi-no-Mikoto descended from the “Heavenly Bridge” to “Kujifurutake in Hyūga Province, Tsukushi,” in accordance with the command of Amaterasu Ōmikami, to govern the earthly realm (Japan). This is said to be the present-day Takachiho Peak in the Kirishima mountain range. The Amano-sakahoko spear at its summit is believed to be the one thrust into the ground by Ninigi-no-Mikoto during his descent from heaven. According to legend, when Ninigi-no-Mikoto descended, the thick fog was dispelled by the light of the rice grains he scattered, and this story is the origin of the name “Takachiho.”
Takachiho Peak
(*³)Kirishima Shrine is a shrine located in Kirishima City, Kagoshima Prefecture, enshrining Prince Ninigi, the protagonist of the national founding myth, as its principal deity. traditional architecture, it is said to be the largest shrine in southern Kyushu. Originally, the shrine stood between Mount Takachiho and the crater known as Ohachi, but it was destroyed multiple times by volcanic eruptions and subsequently relocated to its present site. The main blessings include matchmaking, financial fortune, career success, household safety, and warding off misfortune, among many others.
Kirishima Shrine
About Hinatayama Hot Springs
Kirishima-Hinatayama Hot Springs is one of Kagoshima Prefecture's oldest hot springs. Nestled within the rich natural beauty and volcanic blessings of the Kirishima mountain range, it has long been cherished by people as a place of healing and rejuvenation.
Dating back to ancient times, it boasts a history as old as the Izanagi and Izanami legend (*⁴). It is also famous for being visited by Saigō Takamori (*⁵) and Sakamoto Ryōma (*⁶) during the Bakumatsu period, who used it for recuperation and their honeymoon.
Known for its bicarbonate springs, it is popular as a “beauty hot spring” and has flourished as a therapeutic hot spring resort since ancient times. Today, public bathhouses and day-trip hot spring facilities dot the area, making it a beloved hot spring town deeply rooted in daily life.
(*⁴)In the famous creation myth of the Kojiki, the first child born to the deities Izanagi and Izanami, Hiruko, was unable to stand even at the age of three. Consequently, he was placed aboard the Amano-Iwakusunofune and cast out from Takamagahara. It is said that Prince Hiruko washed ashore at what is now known as Hiruko Shrine in Hayato Town, Kirishima City. True to its name, the shrine enshrines Prince Hiruko as its deity. According to legend passed down in this land, Izanagi and Izanami, concerned for their child's body, did not simply send it away to be discarded. Instead, they sent it to this land of Kirishima with the wish that “its body be healed in the warm hot springs.”
Hiruko Shrine
(*⁵)Saigo Takamori, one of the key figures of the Meiji Restoration and a representative figure of Kagoshima, is said to have been an exceptional lover of hot springs among the great figures of the nation. To soothe his weary body with hot spring therapy, to enjoy a life detached from worldly cares through hunting and fishing, and seeking quality hot springs and majestic nature, he frequently visited this land. He often stayed at the Ryuhō family, a prominent local household, and his lifestyle at that time is recreated at “Saigō-don's Lodging.”
Foot Bath Scene at Saigo-don Village
(*⁶)Ryoma Sakamoto visited Kirishima to treat the sword wounds he sustained during the Teradaya Incident in Kyoto. It was none other than Takamori Saigo and Tatewaki Komatsu who strongly urged him to make this trip. Combining his hot spring therapy with a visit to this area alongside his wife Oryo, it is considered Japan's first honeymoon.
Monument Commemorating Sakamoto Ryoma and Oryo's Honeymoon Hot Spring Journey
Key Historical Points
Mythical Era: Legend has it that Izanagi and Izanami, who appear in the Kojiki, brought the lame Prince Hiruko to this land for recuperation.
Edo Period ~ Late Edo Period: During the Edo period, Hinatayama was an important hot spring resort under the control of the Satsuma Domain (the Shimazu clan). It served as the feudal lord’s private bathhouse and was also a gathering place for the samurai class. It is said that Takamori Saigo visited frequently during the late Edo period. It is also known as the site visited by Ryoma Sakamoto and his wife, Oryo, on what is said to be Japan’s first honeymoon. During the turbulent final years of the Edo period, this place served as a sanctuary where patriots striving to shape Japan’s future could rest and recharge.
Meiji era: After the Meiji Restoration, when the feudal class system was abolished, Hiyama rapidly modernized into a hot spring resort that was widely enjoyed by the general public. The prototype of the “family baths” (private baths)—a hallmark of Hidagiyama Onsen—began to take shape around this time. The practice of each household drawing hot spring water directly into their homes to enjoy the baths in private became firmly established.
Taishō Period ~ Early Shōwa Period: As modernization progressed, the development of transportation networks helped establish its status as a tourist destination. Since the modern era, as Saigo Takamori’s popularity grew nationwide, Hiyama became widely known as “the hot spring resort beloved by Saigo,” and many writers and politicians visited the area to follow in his footsteps. In 1934, it was designated as one of Japan’s first national parks, along with Unzen and the Seto Inland Sea, and Hitoyama Onsen became famous as a place where visitors could enjoy “mythology, heroes, and nature.”
Kirishima Hinatayama Hot Spring Water is natural spring water sourced from a land steeped in history and culture. Having been slowly purified over hundreds of years as it flows through volcanic rock layers, this water carries forward the “essence of healing”—once experienced by those who visited this land—into modern life.
A single glass of water contains not just minerals, but the natural beauty of Japan, its hot spring culture, and stories that have been passed down through the ages.
The Journey of Kirishima Hinatayama Hot Spring Water
The blessings of Kirishima, welling up since ancient times. The water of life, cherished through the ages.
Rain falling on the Kirishima mountain range seeps through layers upon layers of volcanic rock over decades and centuries, transforming into mineral-rich natural water. Once treasured locally as “medicinal hot springs,” this blessing is now beloved nationwide as one of Japan's premier health waters.
The Birth of the Kirishima Range (Tens of Thousands of Years Ago–): The multi-layered strata formed by volcanic activity act as a natural filter, producing water rich in silica—a rare occurrence worldwide.
The Discovery of “Drinkable Hot Springs” for Health (Edo Period):For centuries, the waters bubbling up at the foot of the Kirishima Mountains have been treasured as “drinkable hot springs” for maintaining health.
Proof of Quality and National Expansion (1990s–):Bottling commenced under strict sanitary conditions, and its excellent mineral balance began to earn high praise from experts and chefs alike.
Toward a Daily Life Supporting Well-being (Present):The beauty and health ingredient “silica” has garnered significant attention, and the brand has grown to become a beloved beverage in homes and offices nationwide.
Voices of Our Loyal Customers
Ramen Restaurant “Rin”
The ultra-soft water enhances the flavor extraction of dashi and possesses a natural sweetness, which I feel further accentuates the soup's mellow richness. Furthermore, it is rich in natural minerals, making it the ideal water for the healthy, body-friendly ramen we strive to create at our shop, which is why we use it.
Construction Industry Group S
It has been two years since we began utilizing the hot spring water from Hinatayama for employee benefits.
Employees have given it high marks, and especially during hot periods, consumption more than doubles as a heatstroke countermeasure.
We plan to continue this initiative going forward, wishing for the health of our employees.
Mr./Ms. I, a resident of Nara Prefecture
Since I started drinking the hot spring water from Hinatayama, I've begun to notice changes in my physical condition.
Personally, I'm quite surprised that I've been able to get through the season that used to be so difficult for me each year relatively smoothly.
My wife initially said it was “a bit salty,” but as she continued drinking it, she felt her bowel movements became more regular. Now she drinks it more than anyone else in our family.
Features of Kirishima Hinatayama Hot Spring Water
Nature's ideal mineral balance
The greatest feature of Kirishima Hinatayama Hot Spring Water lies in its 'naturally balanced composition, perfected without human intervention.'
Rainwater that falls on the volcanic terrain of Kirishima naturally absorbs gentle minerals for the body as it filters through volcanic rock layers over long periods, removing unwanted components.
Silica content
120mg/L
Ultra-soft water
Hardness 15mg/L
Mildly alkaline
pH 7.98
High silica content (120mg/L)
Kirishima Hinatayama Hot Spring Water contains 120mg/L of silica (silicon).
Silica is gaining attention as one of the minerals people want to consume daily amid growing interest in beauty and health.
Silica naturally dissolved as it passes through volcanic rock layers is characterized by being an inherent property of the water itself, not something artificially added like in supplements.
Ultra-soft water (hardness 15mg/L)
Kirishima Hinatayama Hot Spring Water is a mineral water rich in minerals yet low in hardness, offering delicious taste at room temperature.
It has a light, easy-to-drink quality without any harshness, paired with a smooth, velvety texture. The moment it touches your tongue, a gentle softness spreads, permeating your body like a soothing embrace.
Not only as drinking water, but it also enhances the flavor of tea, coffee, and cooking.
Naturally created, gentle pH balance (mildly alkaline at pH 7.98)
Kirishima Hinatayama Hot Spring Water has a pH of 7.98, making it mildly alkaline.
As it flows through volcanic rock layers, the water naturally achieves this balanced composition.
Its gentle, refreshing taste transforms daily hydration into a pleasant habit.
Centuries of time have produced crystal-clear water. High transparency achieved through natural filtration.
The geological strata of Kirishima act as a natural filter.
Water filtered over long periods of time contains fewer impurities, resulting in a clear, transparent taste.
This “filtering by time” is the unique value of natural water that cannot be replicated by artificial processing.
Commitment to Taste, Quality, and Safety
Kirishima Hinatayama Hot Spring Water is produced under a strict quality control system from water collection to bottling. We continue to safeguard its quality, allowing you to incorporate this pure gift of nature into your daily life with confidence.
Ingredients List(Values may vary depending on the sampling period)
Inspection Items
Unit
Component values
pH value
–
8.7（22.6℃）
Sodium ion
mg/L
210mg
Potassium ion
mg/L
26
Calcium ion
mg/L
2.1
Magnesium ion
mg/L
1.4
Calcium, magnesium, etc. (hardness)
mg/L
11
Silica
mg/L
120
Sulfate
mg/L
12
Hydrogen carbonate ion
mg/L
470
Calories
kcal/100g
0
Protein
g/100g
less than 0.1
Fat
g/100g
less than 0.1
Carbohydrates
g/100g
0
Moisture
g/100g
100.0
Ash
g/100g
less than 0.1
Salt equivalent
g/100g
0.053
※Based on the water quality test results from June 2021 ※Testing Agency: Toyo Environmental Analysis Center Co., Ltd.
About the Ingredients
Silica
Sodium
Potassium
Calcium
Magnesium
Sulfate
Hydrogen carbonate ion
Silica is a general term for substances composed of silicon as a constituent element, with silicon dioxide being the most representative example.
This mineral is abundant in the Earth's crust and is found not only in minerals but also in vegetables, seaweed, and our bodies (bones, skin, hair, nails, etc.).
It is essential for sustaining life, and since it cannot be produced within the body, it must be obtained through diet.
Within the body, it is said to act like an adhesive for collagen, increasing bone density and supporting the health of hair and skin.
Sodium is an essential mineral vital for maintaining life, regulating body fluid volume and osmotic pressure, transmitting nerve impulses, enabling muscle contraction (including the heart), adjusting blood volume and blood pressure, and maintaining the pH balance (acid-base equilibrium) of body fluids.
It helps eliminate excess sodium from the body. By working with sodium, it maintains stable osmotic pressure within the body, helping prevent high blood pressure and reduce swelling.
Not only does it strengthen bones and teeth, but it is also known to stabilize muscle function, prevent blood clotting and high blood pressure, and calm irritability.
It assists the functions of various enzymes within the body and plays many vital roles essential for sustaining life, including muscle contraction and relaxation, nerve transmission, energy production, blood pressure regulation, and mineral balance adjustment. It also aids the function of calcium, the primary component of bones, and is involved in the formation of bones and teeth.
It is said to have a strong diuretic effect that relieves constipation, thereby promoting detoxification by expelling waste and toxins from the body. However, excessive consumption may upset some people's stomachs, so it is important to consume it in moderation.
Maintaining blood pH (buffering action), transporting carbon dioxide (CO₂), neutralizing stomach acid, and promoting blood flow—it plays vital roles essential for sustaining life.
Turn every moment of your day into quality time
Staying hydrated is the best form of self-care
Kirishima Hinatayama Hot Spring Water is not just for special occasions.
It is a quiet, reliable choice for creating moments to reconnect with your body amidst your busy daily life.
Upon waking in the morning
The first water you drink upon waking.
The soft, gentle taste of Kirishima Hinatayama Hot Spring Water gently awakens your sleeping body.
Its lack of harshness makes it easy to incorporate as a daily morning habit.
A quiet routine to set the rhythm for your day.
Habits focused on beauty and health
Rich in silica and gentle on the skin, Kirishima Hidamariyama Onsen water transforms your daily hydration routine into a moment of mindful self-care.
You don’t need to do anything special—just “choose a different water.” This effortless habit will support you every day.
Drinking water, coffee, alcohol, and cooking
The unique characteristics of soft water are evident not only when drinking it, but also when brewing or preparing beverages.
It enhances the natural goodness of ingredients without interfering with the umami of Japanese tea or black tea, the aroma of coffee, or the delicate flavors of broth and dishes. Elevate your everyday dining experience just a little.
as a gift
Kirishima Hinatayama Hot Spring Water makes an easy gift choice for any age or preference.
It conveys your heartfelt wishes—like “I hope you stay healthy” or “I want you to incorporate something wonderful into your daily life”—without needing words.
Point
Choosing water means choosing how you live.
Kirishima Hinatayama Hot Spring Water is a single bottle where nature, history, and quality quietly harmonize.
Though not flashy, it is water where you can feel a definite difference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it okay to drink hot spring water every day?
Yes, it is safe to drink as your daily drinking water.
Kirishima Hinatayama Hot Spring Water is soft water with a gentle taste and a mineral balance suitable for daily hydration.
You can use it with confidence as part of your daily routine.
Does the taste or smell bother you?
It has almost no peculiar taste or odor, offering a clean, refreshing flavor.
Natural filtration through volcanic rock layers results in minimal impurities and a soft, transparent taste. This water quality is easy to drink, even for first-time users.
How much silica is contained?
Contains 120 mg/L of silica (silicon).
The silica in Kirishima Hidangayama Hot Spring Water is naturally incorporated as it passes through volcanic rock layers. You can easily incorporate it into your daily hydration routine.
Can it replace medicine or supplements?
This product is not a pharmaceutical or health supplement.
Kirishima Hinatayama Hot Spring Water is a natural water intended for daily consumption. It is not intended for specific effects or efficacy.
Please tell me about storage methods and the best-by date.
Store away from direct sunlight and high temperatures and humidity.
If unopened, it can be stored until the best-before date printed on the package from the date of manufacture. Once opened, please consume as soon as possible.
Inquiries Regarding “Kirishima Hinatayama Hot Spring Water”
Kitayama Co., Ltd. 〒893-0014 8-1-38 Kotobuki, Kanoya City, Kagoshima Prefecture
