Onsen Guide

Matsuba Onsen, Nozawa Onsen

Onsen Information

The 13 free bathhouses in Nozawa Onsen are truly special, offering naturally weakly alkaline spring water. This pristine hot spring water comes from over 30 sources, with temperatures ranging from 40°C to 55°C.

These communal bathhouses hold cultural significance, cherished for generations. Local neighborhoods maintain these bathhouses under the “Yunakama” system, ensuring cleanliness and sharing costs.

Visitors are requested to follow proper onsen etiquette. If its your first time, watch a video on etiquette by local villager Luke.

Beyond bathing, the Ogama cooking onsen is used by locals to cook vegetables.

Public Onsen Guide

Oyu (大湯)
Oyu (大湯)

Oyu, often referred to as "Soyu" by locals, is a symbol of Nozawa Onsen located in the heart of the 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.

Kawahara-yu (河原湯)
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.

Akiha-no-yu (秋葉の湯)
Akiha-no-yu (秋葉の湯)

Perched close by to 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)
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 haemorrhoids, diabetes, rheumatism, strokes, and neuralgia.

Shin-yu (真湯)
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 the warmth, such as haemorrhoids. Please note that Shin-yu is open for use from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Taki-no-yu (滝の湯)
Taki-no-yu (滝の湯)

Located slightly upstream from the Asagama hot spring source, this charming wooden bathhouse offers water from a source that is high a temperature, 78 degrees Celsius. The water quality is described as "Gypsum-Salt-Sulfur Springs" and is particularly effective for recovery 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)
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.

Juodo no-yu (十王堂の湯)
Juodo no-yu (十王堂の湯)

This two-story bathhouse, situated in front of the Enma-do Hall. 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.

Nakao-no-yu (中尾の湯)
Nakao-no-yu (中尾の湯)

Among the communal bathhouses, Nakao-no-Yu boasts the largest wooden bathhouse structure. 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)
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 neighbouring Asagama hot spring.

Kumanoteara-yu (熊の手洗湯)
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)
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.

Shinden-no-yu (新田の湯)
Shinden-no-yu (新田の湯)

Established at the end of the Edo period, it is located opposite Nishi-no-Miya Shrine. The water quality is Gypsum-Salt-Sulfur Springs, effective for ailments such as haemorrhoids, diabetes, rheumatism, etc., similar to the Asagama hot spring. Available hours: 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM

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