Situated along the picturesque coastline of Akune City in Kagoshima, Villa Hikaruze offers a serene retreat where ancient geological wonders meet contemporary luxury. This unique destination is situated in a region that emerged from the ocean floor nearly 200 million years ago, forming the very foundations of Kagoshima’s landscape. Here, guests can experience the deep, restorative energy of the land while basking in the peaceful ambiance of the sea. This villa invites visitors to embrace moments of relaxation and renewal, immersed in breathtaking ocean views and the gentle rhythms of nature.

The Legend of Hikaruze: A Sacred Light

Directly in front of the villa, a sacred torii gate stands on a rocky reef, where a rare and mysterious phenomenon sometimes occurs—ethereal lights, reminiscent of a moon ring, appear above the water. This sacred glow has long been associated with Tobashira Shrine, where Susanoo-no-Mikoto Kami is enshrined, and is believed to bring good fortune to those who witness it. Inspired by this celestial spectacle, Villa Hikaruze takes its name from the divine light, offering guests an auspicious and unforgettable experience.

Elegant Accommodations with Unparalleled Comfort

Each room is designed to provide an exquisite blend of comfort and natural beauty:

First Floor: A spacious living room with a grand natural wood table, perfect for unwinding while gazing at the panoramic ocean view through expansive windows.

Private Courtyard: Each villa boasts an enclosed garden with hanging chairs, an open-air bath, and the option to enjoy a bonfire under the stars, ensuring complete privacy and tranquility.

Second Floor: A cozy bedroom featuring two of Japan’s finest double beds, promising a restful night’s sleep to the soothing sound of the waves.

Private Onsen Bath: Each room includes an en-suite natural hot spring bath, allowing guests to indulge in onsen relaxation at their leisure.

A Rejuvenating Hot Spring Experience

The onsen baths at Hikaruze draw 100% natural hot spring water from 300 meters underground, characterized by its rich iron and salt content, giving it a distinctive reddish-brown hue. This mineral-rich water deeply nourishes the body and mind, offering a uniquely therapeutic experience.

In the private gardens of each room, guests can enjoy an open-air bath crafted from historical stone materials, originally used in northern Satsuma during the Edo period. Whether soaking under the starlit sky or listening to the gentle waves, this experience promises complete rejuvenation.

Culinary Excellence Showcasing Local Ingredients

Dining at Hikaruze is more than just a meal, it is an immersive journey that celebrates the region’s rich culinary heritage. Every dish highlights the finest seasonal ingredients, carefully prepared to showcase their natural flavors and served on handcrafted local tableware. Each meal is complemented by locally brewed sake, creating a perfect harmony of taste and tradition.

A Delightful Morning Start: Breakfast

Guests can begin their day with a thoughtfully crafted breakfast featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. In Akune, you have the special privilege of enjoying asadori kibinago, freshly caught and landed that very morning. This delicate fish is quickly prepared and served either as sashimi or grilled over charcoal, bringing out its natural flavors. Complement your meal with Japan’s best silk tofu, or savor a fluffy dashimaki tamago, a perfect dish to start your day. To complete your refreshing morning, enjoy citrus fruits and smoothies made from the finest produce of Northern Satsuma.

An Exquisite Evening Feast: Dinner

Savor Akune’s seasonal delicacies with a refined wa (Japanese) course meal featuring fresh seafood, locally grown produce, North Satsuma’s specialty eel, and premium Ishihara Wagyu. Every dish showcases nature’s blessings and skilled craftsmanship.

For a more rustic experience, enjoy a seaside seafood barbecue with freshly caught lobster, scallops, kibinago, Kagoshima Kuroge Wagyu, and seasonal vegetables. Dine in an open-air setting with stunning ocean views for a truly unforgettable meal.

Access

By Car

Via Expressway: Approximately 11 minutes from Akune IC on the Minami-Kyushu Nishi-Mawari Expressway (Izumi-Akune Road).

From Akune Station: Approximately 4 minutes by car.

By Train

From Kagoshima-Chuo Station:

JR Kagoshima Main Line → Sendai Station → Hisatsu Orange Railway → Akune Station.

Shinkansen→ Sendai Station → Hisatsu Orange Railway → Akune Station.

By Air

From Kagoshima Airport: Airport shuttle bus → Akune City Hall → 4-min walk.

From Kumamoto Airport: Bus→ Higo-Ozu Station → Train→ Kumamoto Station → Shinkansen→ Sendai Station → Hisatsu Orange Railway→ Akune Station.

From Fukuoka Airport: Subway → Hakata Station → Shinkansen → Sendai Station → Hisatsu Orange Railway → Akune Station.

For guests arriving at Akune Station, a shuttle service is available upon request.