Onsen Guide

Onsen Information

The 13 free bathhouses in Nozawa Onsen are truly special. The source is a naturally weakly alkaline spring water, delivering a soothing and therapeutic experience without any artificial additives or recycled water.

This pristine hot spring water is drawn from a network of over 30 sources, offering temperatures ranging from 40°C to a toasty 55°C, catering to various visitor preferences.

These communal bathhouses hold immense cultural significance in Nozawa Onsen. They have been cherished gathering spots for generations, fostering unity and tradition among the villagers.

Local neighborhoods, under the system known as “Yunakama” or Bath Companions, shoulder the responsibility of maintaining and managing these bathhouses. This dedicated community shares the financial costs and diligently ensures daily cleanliness, creating a warm and welcoming environment for all visitors.

To maintain a harmonious atmosphere, we kindly request all bathers to follow proper onsen etiquette, ensuring a respectful and pleasant experience for everyone.

For your convenience and safety, each bathhouse has specific bathing hours, which vary. We recommend checking with your accommodation to stay informed about the designated hours for your chosen bathhouse during your visit.

Beyond bathing, our hot springs serve various purposes, such as the Ogama cooking onsen, where villagers prepare local mountain vegetables and the famous Nozawana.

Play Video

If you’re new to the onsen experience, consider watching this video that explains the etiquette and process, provided by local villager Luke.

Oyu (大湯)

Oyu, often referred to as "Soyu" by locals, is a symbol of Nozawa Onsen located in the heart of the hot spring village. Its beautiful traditional Japanese architecture, reminiscent of the Edo period, captivates visitors. While its founding date remains a mystery, it's believed to have played a central role in the community's unity over the years. The water is of a simple sulfur composition, known for its therapeutic effects on gastrointestinal ailments, rheumatism, women's health, and stroke recovery.

Kawahara-yu (河原湯)

Situated just downstream from Oyu, Kawahara-yu is named after its historic location nestled along a serene stream in a riverside hollow. It's well-known for its healing properties for skin conditions and is ideal for invigorating morning baths due to its high temperatures. The water quality here is described as "Gypsum-Salt-Sulfur Springs," with a simple sulfur composition known for its therapeutic effects on gastrointestinal ailments, rheumatism, women's health, and stroke recovery.

Akiha-no-yu (秋葉の湯)

Perched above the tranquil Ibanoyama Bunko park, Akiha-no-yu offers a serene atmosphere. The water quality here is characterized as "Gypsum-Salt-Sulfur Springs," with a simple sulfur composition known for its therapeutic effects on gastrointestinal ailments, rheumatism, women's health, and stroke recovery.

Asagama-no-yu (麻釜の湯)

Located on Asagama Street, this communal bathhouse draws its rejuvenating waters from the Asagama hot spring source. The water quality here is characterized as "Barley Gypsum-Sulfur Springs," believed to offer therapeutic benefits for various ailments, including hemorrhoids, diabetes, rheumatism, strokes, and neuralgia.

Shin-yu (真湯)

Gracing the entrance of Tsutsujiyama Park, Shin-yu is renowned for the abundance of "Yuno-Hana" or hot spring flowers, creating a natural wonder. The water quality is characterized as "Simple Sulfur Springs" and is believed to effectively treat conditions that benefit from warmth, such as hemorrhoids. Please note that Shin-yu is open for use from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Taki-no-yu (滝の湯)

Located slightly upstream from the Asagama hot spring source, this charming wooden bathhouse offers source water with a high temperature of 78 degrees Celsius. The water quality is described as "Gypsum-Salt-Sulfur Springs" and is particularly effective for individuals in the recovery phase after serious illnesses. Access to this facility is currently limited to guests staying within the village. Operating hours are as follows: April to November: 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM, December to March: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Yokochi-no-Yu (横落の湯)

Hidden beneath the Yokochi crossing, Yokochi-no-Yu is an underground hot spring drawing its waters from the Asagama source. It offers therapeutic benefits nearly identical to Asagama-no-Yu and is especially cherished for its effectiveness in treating skin ailments. The water quality is characterized as "Gypsum-Salt-Sulfur Springs," making it an excellent choice for skin conditions.

Juo-do-no-Yu (十王堂の湯)

This two-story bathhouse, situated in front of the Enma-do Hall, stands just below the "Ibanoyama Bunko," a charming inn known for its hazy moonlit nights. It draws its waters from both Asagama and Yunomiya hot springs, offering therapeutic benefits nearly identical to those found in Oo-yu. The water quality is characterized as "Gypsum-Salt-Sulfur Springs," providing a soothing and healing experience.

Shinden-no-Yu (新田の湯)

Founded during the late Edo period, this hot spring is located just across from the Nishi-no-Miya Shrine. The water here is characterized as "Barley Gypsum-Sulfur Springs," sharing similar therapeutic properties with its neighboring source, Asagama. It's known to be effective in treating various conditions, including hemorrhoids, diabetes, and rheumatism.

Nakao-no-Yu (中尾の湯)

Among the communal bathhouses, Nakao-no-Yu boasts the largest wooden bathhouse structure. Its source water is drawn from Asagama hot spring, creating a remarkable bathing experience. The water quality here is characterized as "Gypsum-Salt-Sulfur Springs" and is renowned for its effectiveness in treating various conditions, including skin ailments, rheumatism, women's health issues, and even lead and mercury poisoning.

Matsuba-no-Yu (松葉の湯)

Located at the heart of the Matsuba Inn District, this hot spring has historical roots believed to originate from an archery range. Legend has it that "Matsuba" originated from the mispronunciation of "Mato," meaning target. The water quality here is described as "Gypsum-Salt-Sulfur Springs" and offers therapeutic benefits similar to the neighboring Asagama hot spring.

Kumanoteara-yu (熊の手洗湯)

This ancient hot spring, believed to have been discovered by a bear, has a fascinating history. It was originally known as "Tearai-yu" in reference to its legendary discovery. Over time, it was also referred to as "Teru-yu" and "Terayu." The water quality here is described as "Gypsum-Salt-Sulfur Springs" and is particularly known for its effectiveness in treating burns and cuts.

Kamitera-yu (上寺湯)

Located just down the slope from Shin-yu, Kamitera-yu is a historic hot spring with deep-rooted origins. This bathing facility draws its waters from the Asagama source, and its water quality is described as "Gypsum-Salt-Sulfur Springs." Renowned for its efficacy in treating various ailments, including cuts, burns, and skin conditions, Kamitera-yu is believed to share similar therapeutic benefits with Asagama, such as addressing hemorrhoids and diabetes.