Open-air hot springs in an idyllic riverside town
Located in the northern part of Okayama, the three famous hot spring resorts of Mimasaka – Yubara, Okutsu, and Yunogo – offer a unique and rejuvenating experience for visitors. These hot springs are known for their alkaline properties, which have healing effects on the body. Each of these resorts has its own distinct features and attractions, making them all worth a visit.
Yubara Onsen, a haven for salamanders
Yubara Onsen is situated just downstream from Yubara Dam and is known for its pristine natural environment. Despite being a public onsen, it has a private and secluded feel. The hot spring waters gush up from the riverbed, creating sand baths that are unique to Yubara. Visitors can enjoy the open-air Yubara Onsen bath free of charge, which offers unisex bathing as well as a separate area for children. In addition to the open-air bath, there is also the Municipal Yumoto Onsen-kan, which has a more traditional setting complete with a sauna, jacuzzi, and family baths.
During your stay at Yubara Onsen, take a leisurely walk through the town and explore the local shops, folk museums, and cultural centers. This is a great opportunity to learn about the unique qualities of the region, including the town’s mascot, a giant salamander. The Hanzaki Giant Salamander Festival, held annually in August, is a major event in the area that celebrates both the celebrity amphibian and the success of the town.
Okutsu Onsen, where locals still wash their laundry
Okutsu Onsen is famously known as “bath of beauty” or bijin-no-yu. While this name traditionally refers to the water’s effects on a woman’s skin, it also reflects the idyllic life found in this charming onsen town. One of the unique traditions in Okutsu is the practice of local women washing their laundry in the river while performing a rhythmic dance and wearing colorful regional costumes. This traditional dance is still performed for visitors on Sundays and holidays, except during the winter months.
If you happen to visit Okutsu between late October and mid-November, make sure to attend the Okutsu Maple Leaf Festival’s opening ceremony at the Okutsu Shinko Center. This festival includes the night illumination of Okutsu Gorge, where the changing colors of the leaves signal the arrival of autumn.
Yunogo Onsen, fit for a heron
Legend has it that a white heron with an injured leg sought healing in the waters of Yunogo Onsen. Since then, the hot spring has been known as Sagi-no-yu or the “heron hot spring.” Yunogo Onsen village offers not only refreshing waters but also the opportunity to stroll around dressed in a traditional kimono. On New Year’s Eve, visitors can enjoy a spectacular fireworks display set against a scenic natural backdrop.
The darling of northern Okayama
There are plenty of reasons to visit the big three hot springs of northern Okayama. The healing properties of the waters, combined with the beautiful landscape and picturesque towns, make these hot springs a must-visit destination. Moreover, the warm hospitality extended to visitors adds to the allure of the region.
How to Get There
Each of the three hot spring resorts has its own transportation options:
Yubara Onsen: To reach Yubara Onsen, take the Chutetsu bus bound for Hiruzen from Tenmaya Bus Center in Okayama City to Katsuyama Station. From there, catch the Maniwa City Community bus to Yubara Onsen.
Okutsu Onsen: To get to Okutsu Onsen, take the Tsuyama Line from Okayama Station to Tsuyama Station. At Tsuyama, transfer to the bus bound for Okutsu.
Yunogo Onsen: To reach Yunogo Onsen, take the Tsuyama Line from Okayama Station to Tsuyama Station. From Tsuyama Station, transfer to the Kishin Line and travel to Hayashino Station. From there, it is a short 10-minute taxi ride to the hot spring.
In conclusion, the open-air hot springs of Yubara, Okutsu, and Yunogo in northern Okayama offer a unique and rejuvenating experience for visitors. Whether you are looking for healing properties, a taste of traditional Japanese culture, or simply a relaxing getaway, these hot spring resorts have something for everyone. So, take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the tranquil and healing waters of these idyllic riverside towns.
Address And Maps Location:
Yunogo, Mimasaka-shi, Okayama-ken
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