Guide
Located in Okuma Town, Futaba District, Fukushima Prefecture, Hotto Okuma is a unique accommodation and wellness facility born from the spirit of reconstruction following the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and the nuclear accident. The name 'Hotto' reflects the wish for visitors to feel 'hotto' (a Japanese expression for feeling relieved and at ease), much like being at home. More than just a bathhouse, it serves as a vital community hub aimed at revitalizing the local area.
The facility was established to provide a place of rest for the residents of Okuma and those involved in the reconstruction efforts. It serves as a 'spiritual anchor' to help restore vitality to the region amidst the challenges of post-disaster recovery. To support local industries, the facility occasionally features local specialties, such as 'Kibou' sake made from local rice, fostering a connection to the region's cultural rebirth.
The standout feature is the professional-grade sauna equipment. Enthusiasts (often called 'saunners') will appreciate the high-temperature 90°C sauna, the 20°C cold water bath, and the 'Löyly' experience (pouring water over hot stones to create steam). For those staying overnight, the facility offers various room types, including twin rooms and barrier-free rooms designed for accessibility. The large communal bathing area provides a spacious and relaxing environment for both overnight guests and day-use visitors.
The facility is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, making it an ideal spot for a midday refresh or a relaxing evening soak. The facility often hosts seasonal events; for example, in February, they may offer special themed baths like the 'Daikon (Radish) Bath.' These seasonal variations offer a unique way to experience the changing seasons through wellness.
Visitors can enjoy a quick refresh through day-use bathing or settle in for a longer stay with overnight accommodations. A highlight is the sauna ritual, including the Löyly experience and resting in the lounge afterward. For physical relaxation, free massage chairs are also available near the front desk. Please note that this is a heated water facility (boiled water) rather than a natural hot spring (onsen).
Hotto Okuma is situated within the 'Okuma Koryu ZONE.' Since the facility itself does not provide in-house dining, guests typically visit the nearby commercial facility 'Okuma-to' to purchase meals and drinks. The nearby 'link-ru Okuma' center also serves as a gathering point for both locals and visitors, making the area a lively hub for community interaction.
Please check the following before your visit: Amenities such as shampoo, conditioner, body soap, toothbrushes, and skincare sets are provided, but please bring your own if you have specific preferences. Payment can be made via cash, credit card, or transit IC cards. For accommodations, reservations must be made in advance via telephone, FAX, or at the front desk, as online booking is not available. Note that there is a limit on consecutive stays (up to 7 nights for general users), so please consult the staff for long-term stays. For the best experience, we recommend checking the availability of nearby dining options in advance.