There is widespread public support for renewable sources and energy efficiency. However, renewable energy projects often fail because of a lack of societal acceptance of the technologies. This paper discusses the lessons learned from previous studies of mutual understanding and coexistence among stakeholders in the case of geothermal energy utilization. In our previous study, the local risk and benefit structure was identified to facilitate the resolution of the fundamental causes of opposition by hot spring inn managers and local governments. A key reason for opposition was identified as uncertainty about the reversibility and predictability of the adverse effects on hot springs and other underground structures by geothermal power production. On the other hand, public acceptance of geothermal energy is generally high. However, they don't know well about the present energy mix, the risk-benefit and technical characteristics of geothermal energy. Through continuous dialogue and negotiation, stakeholders should develop a common recognition of the definition of effects of geothermal energy utilization on hot springs and formulate a mutual understanding regarding risk management options to reach their common goals and vision of the future.