Hello, fellow travelers!

I’m Binako, a writer for Sarukuma — and somehow, whenever I make a hot drink that needs water added, it always comes out way too watered down!

Today I’m excited to introduce a charming little spot tucked away in Manganji, Minamioguni Town, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture — the lovely “Yunon (湯音)”.

The cheerful red storefront with its giant soft serve cone display is impossible to walk past without a second look!

Inside, you’ll also find a small selection of cosmetics and local seasonings for sale — perfect for souvenir hunting!

Toward the back, there’s a cozy counter seating area — a great spot to relax and soak in the atmosphere after exploring Kurokawa Onsen.

Good news for international visitors — credit cards are accepted, which is always a relief when traveling in rural Japan!

The staff were absolutely lovely too — warm, smiling, and genuinely welcoming.

Recommended Menu

Here’s a peek at the menu:

Yuagari Soft Serve (Post-Bath Soft Serve) — 350 yen
Mini Size — 240 yen
Kurokawa Soft Serve — 390 yen
Oguni Jersey Milk — 250 yen
Hot Matcha Latte — 280 yen
Amazake (Sweet Sake) — 360 yen
Horse Meat Menchi Katsu — 270 yen
Horse Meat Croquette — 180 yen

Sadly, our trusty fryer was taking a little break the day we visited, so the fried items weren’t available!

Oguni Jersey Drinking Yogurt — 270 yen
is also available, and it’s the staff’s personal recommendation!

First, since my son is a huge milk lover, we ordered the
Oguni Jersey Milk — 250 yen.
And wow — absolutely delicious!

The rich, creamy flavor of the milk really filled the mouth, and right then I knew —
if this is the milk used in their soft serve,
it has to be incredible!

Next up was the
Kurokawa Soft Serve — 390 yen.

It comes drizzled with a generous pour of coffee on top — like an affogato, Japanese-style!

The pleasant bitterness of the coffee combined with the sweet, creamy soft serve creates a wonderfully grown-up flavor — but it’s still mild enough that kids can happily share it too!

Because the soft serve is so cold, the coffee drizzle hardens slightly and clings beautifully to every bite — that contrast is what makes it truly special.

Café au Lait — 280 yen
Sipping a warm café au lait while enjoying ice-cold soft serve? Absolute heaven.

Cold, warm, cold, warm —
this perfect rotation of temperatures is pure bliss, especially on a chilly day in Kurokawa Onsen!

Next time, I’m definitely coming back for the croquettes!

Be sure to stop by Yunon if you’re visiting Kurokawa Onsen — you won’t regret it!

Follow us on Instagram for daily updates!
At Sarukuma, we share lunch spots, parks, indoor play areas, and more for families exploring Kumamoto.
We’d love for you to follow along!

Frequently Asked Questions

※Information is accurate as of the time of reporting. Prices and hours may change. Please confirm before visiting.