[1][2][3] It is endemic to northwestern Kyushu, Japan.

Earlier records from Honshu represent other species.

[2] Hynobius naevius, as understood broadly, occurs in broad-leaved evergreen forests and mixed forests at elevations between 300 and 1,000 m (980 and 3,280 ft) above sea level.

Breeding takes place in streams where also the larvae develop.

Hynobius naevius is common within its range and is not facing known significant threats.