More About Japan 
An island located in the western part of Kumamoto Prefecture, Amakusa.
Connected to Kyushu mainland by bridges, it can be accessed by car. Additionally, a ferry is available from Shimabara in Nagasaki Prefecture.
Although Amakusa is an island, it is probably much larger than many people imagine.
The two main islands of Amakusa, “Shimoshima (574.98 km²)” and “Ueshima (225.95 km²),” together exceed the size of Awaji Island (592.51 km²) and even Tokyo’s 23 wards (627.53 km²).
Amakusa is rich in delicious food, including fresh seafood such as sea urchins and octopuses, as well as premium meats like Amakusa Daio chicken, Amakusa Black Beef, and Amakusa Ume Pork. Amakusa Champon is also a must-try local specialty.
In this article, we introduce one of the many accommodations in Amakusa, “Amakusa Tenku no Fune.”
A resort hotel with stunning views of Amakusa, where every room features a private open-air bath on the terrace, offering both an incredible view and a sense of openness.
The hotel also serves delicious dishes made with local ingredients, making it one of the top accommodations recommended for those planning a trip to Kyushu!
(Photos by my other website ushigyu.net)
Access & Basic Information for Amakusa Tenku no Fune
“Amakusa Tenku no Fune” is located right after crossing the bridge from the Kyushu mainland into Amakusa.
As mentioned earlier, Amakusa is quite large, but Tenku no Fune is situated near the entrance of Amakusa from Kyushu, making it relatively easy to access.
From Kumamoto City, it takes about 1 to 1.5 hours by car. From Fukuoka City, the drive takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.
It is possible to reach the hotel via bus and a short walk from Kumamoto Station or Uto Station, but since it takes a considerable amount of time, using a rental car or driving is highly recommended.
【Basic Information for Tenku no Fune】
| Hotel Name | Amakusa Tenku no Fune |
|---|---|
| Phone Number | 0969-25-2000 |
| Address | 5984-2 Aitsu, Matsushima-machi, Kami-Amakusa City, Kumamoto Prefecture |
| Check-in / Check-out | 15:00 / 11:00 |
| Hot Spring Type | Sodium chloride spring |
| Website | Official: 【Official】Amakusa Tenku no Fune |
Blog Review of Tenku no Fune Stay
Tenku no Fune: A Resort Hotel Shaped Like a Ship
Located just past the final bridge of the Amakusa Five Bridges, Matsushima Bridge (Bridge No. 5), “Tenku no Fune” sits atop a small hill.
As its name suggests, the hotel features a unique design inspired by the shape of a ship.
The view from the bow of the ship-shaped building is simply breathtaking. Since the hotel is situated on a hill with no tall buildings around, you can enjoy spectacular scenery from every angle.
From the outside, the hotel has an impressive structure. The area near the bow with the best views is actually a restaurant where guests can enjoy dinner and breakfast while taking in the scenery.
Although we only had a quick glance, there was also a terrace with a pool, providing a perfect spot to relax.
From the grounds of Tenku no Fune, which sits on an elevated location, the sunset is also stunning.
Checking the Room Interior and Amenities
After checking in, we headed to the accommodation wing, which is separate from the main reception building.
We stayed in the Bridge View Double room.
The living space, complete with a sofa and TV, opens directly onto the terrace, offering a panoramic view of Amakusa.
The bed is a spacious 200×200 cm king size. The indoor area is 39㎡, and the terrace is 21㎡.
The room is designed for an open and airy feel, allowing guests to enjoy the view even from the bed.
Let’s check out the room’s amenities.
A coffee maker (Nescafe Dolce Gusto), an electric kettle, and glasses with bottled water for two.
A mini-fridge stocked with complimentary beverages.
A Blu-ray disc player and a music player are also provided.
Bathrobes, a safe, and slippers.
Toilet facilities.
The hotel opened in 2013, but despite nearly a decade having passed, the bathroom remains impeccably clean.
Sink and amenities.
The bathtub is exclusively in the outdoor open-air bath on the terrace, with direct access from the indoor shower room.
Stunning Terrace Views and Open-Air Bath
One of the biggest highlights of each room at Tenku no Fune is undoubtedly the terrace with a spectacular view and an open-air bath.
Whether lounging or soaking in the bath, the scenery is simply breathtaking.
Since Tenku no Fune is built on a hill, you get an expansive view of the Amakusa islands and the sea stretching into the distance. Absolutely refreshing.
Enjoying the sunset from the terrace.
Since there are very few artificial lights in the area, the night view is mostly dark. However, soaking in the open-air bath under the night sky is a unique and tranquil experience. If the weather is clear, you might even see the stars.
And of course, a morning bath is also a perfect way to start the day.
Waking up to such a breathtaking view is an experience like no other. This is the essence of a perfect getaway.
Dining at Tenku no Fune
Dinner is served at the ship-shaped building’s second-floor restaurant, “Festa del Mare,” which offers stunning views.
Although we couldn’t get a window-side seat, the sofa seating was comfortable and relaxing.
This evening’s dinner menu featured a selection of Amakusa’s finest ingredients, including Amakusa Ume Pork, Amakusa Daio chicken, Amakusa spiny lobster, and locally sourced beef and clams from Kumamoto.
To start: Amakusa Ume Pork Rillette, served with blood orange and ricotta.
Fresh fish carpaccio featuring Southern salmon, flounder, and abalone.
Kumamoto clam soup with seasonal vegetables.
Fettuccine with Amakusa Daio chicken gizzard ragu sauce.
Amakusa Spiny Lobster with Fuki Miso-Flavored Sabayon Sauce.
Grilled Kumamoto Wagyu beef with wasabi-infused sauce.
Seasonal dessert: Bianco mangiare with spring macedonia.
Each dish was beautifully presented, highlighting the freshness of the ingredients with exquisite flavors. Truly a fantastic meal.
Breakfast at Tenku no Fune
Breakfast is also served at the same restaurant, Festa del Mare.
We were lucky to get a special seat at the ship’s bow, offering a premium view.
The breakfast was beautifully arranged and visually delightful. The porridge was particularly delicious, making it hard to resist getting a second serving. Completely satisfying!
Final Thoughts: Review of Tenku no Fune
Amakusa, with its breathtaking scenery and abundance of delicious local ingredients, left a lasting impression on us.
At “Tenku no Fune,” we were able to fully immerse ourselves in both the stunning views and exquisite cuisine.
For anyone considering a trip to Kyushu or Kumamoto, this resort hotel is highly recommended. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, gourmet dining, or simply a beautiful retreat, Tenku no Fune offers an unforgettable experience.
If you’re planning your next getaway, why not treat yourself to the incredible views and hospitality of Tenku no Fune?
