Guide
Yugawara Onsen is located in Yugawara Town, Ashigara Shimokita District, Kanagawa Prefecture. The hot springs emerge from the erosion caldera of the Yugawara volcano, which ceased activity hundreds of thousands of years ago. The area offers a wide variety of spring types, including simple springs, mild saline springs, and gypsum springs. Source temperatures range widely from 30°C to 88°C, and the waters are believed to be beneficial for skin conditions, muscle pain, neuralgia, and sensitivity to cold. Unlike the nearby Atami, which is known for large-scale hotels, Yugawara maintains a more tranquil atmosphere centered around traditional Japanese inns (ryokan).
There are several legends regarding the discovery of Yugawara Onsen. Historical accounts attribute the discovery to figures such as En no Gyoja, Hozumi no Mitomaro, Gyoki, or Kobo Daishi, and even local folklore mentions a tanuki (raccoon dog). The area's deep history is also reflected in the Man'yoshu, an ancient collection of Japanese poetry that features verses about its waters. From the Meiji era onward, the area became a beloved retreat for many famous Japanese authors who visited to find inspiration for their writing.
The charm of Yugawara Onsen lies in its diverse water qualities and excellent day-trip bathing facilities. There are five main day-use facilities within the town, allowing visitors to choose based on their preference, such as municipal facilities or those with attached heated pools. Additionally, near the hot spring town, you can visit the "Doppo-no-yu" footbath at Manyo Park for a relaxing break during a stroll. The townscape follows the valley of the Chitose River, offering a scenic view shaped by the local topography.
You can enjoy the hot springs year-round. The most pleasant times to visit are from March to May and from September to November, when the climate is mild and comfortable. Please note that operating hours for day-trip facilities and local shops vary, so it is highly recommended to check the specific schedules in advance. You can enjoy different atmospheres depending on the time of day, from the quietude of the hot spring town at night to the lively atmosphere during daytime strolls.
Beyond staying at traditional ryokans, you can enjoy the hot springs through day-trip bathing. You can also experience the warmth of the springs casually at various footbath facilities. Walking through the town while enjoying the surrounding nature is a quintessential Yugawara experience. By visiting different springs, you can truly feel the unique texture and healing benefits of each distinct water type.
Access to the hot spring area starts from JR Yugawara Station on the Tokaido Main Line. It is approximately a 15-minute walk from the station to the entrance of the hot spring district, and about 30 minutes to the central area. Alternatively, you can take a bus from the station toward Okuyugawara or Fudo Falls, which takes about 10 minutes. For those traveling by car, you can use the route via the Ishibashi Interchange on the Seisho Bypass or descend the Yugawara Parkway from the Hakone area.
When using hot spring facilities, it is helpful to bring your own towel and a change of clothes, although some facilities provide these. As these are public spaces, please be mindful of others. Regarding payment, please check in advance as some facilities only accept cash, while others may accept credit cards or transportation IC cards. While some facilities provide English signage or menus, please ensure you follow standard Japanese hot spring etiquette.