Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Sakakibara Onsen is a hot spring resort located in the mountains of Tsu City, Mie Prefecture, and is characterized by its tranquil hot spring town and long-established inns. It has a long history as a popular hot spring resort, and is surrounded by lush greenery and pure mountain streams, making it ideal for those seeking a soothing stay. The water is soft and gentle on the skin, and there are facilities offering day-trip bathing, foot baths, and inns with open-air baths, all of which can be enjoyed alongside the scenery of the four seasons.
Highlights
- Ryokan (Japanese inns) and public baths: You can enjoy hot springs in the indoor and outdoor baths of long-established inns that retain their traditional atmosphere, as well as in public baths that are also used by locals. There are also many facilities that accept day-trip bathers.
- Footbaths and walking paths: The hot spring town has both free and paid footbath spots, as well as walking paths along the streams, so you can easily enjoy the hot spring atmosphere.
– Natural scenery: The surrounding mountains and streams are ideal for hiking and photography, and the fresh greenery of spring and the colorful leaves of autumn are particularly spectacular.
- Local cuisine: At inns and nearby restaurants, you can enjoy kaiseki cuisine made with seasonal local ingredients and seafood. Local cuisine made with local vegetables and river fish is especially popular.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train + Bus/Taxi: The most common way to get there is by bus or taxi from the nearest major station (such as Tsu Station). Public transportation may have limited service, so we recommend checking the timetable in advance.
- Car: The surrounding area is mountainous, so it is convenient to access by car. The most common route is from the city via the Tomei-Osaka Expressway, Ise Expressway, or national highways, and many inns have parking lots. Please be careful of road conditions (icy and snowy) in winter.
(Note) The exact name of the nearest station, bus route, and travel time will vary depending on the departure point and operation status. Please check the latest timetable and whether your accommodation offers a shuttle service in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip: Bathing and walking takes about 2-4 hours. If you add lunch and walking around the area, it will take half a day to a full day.
- Accommodation: If you want to enjoy the hot springs, meals, and sightseeing in the area at your own pace, a one-night stay (dinner and breakfast included) is the standard. If you want to spend your time without rushing, a two-day, one-night stay is recommended.
Nearby spots
- Tsu City Center: There are historical shrines and temples, walking spots, local markets and restaurants, and it can be accessed in about 20 to 40 minutes by car (approximately).
- Ise: Ise Grand Shrine is within driving distance, and travel plans that combine hot springs with sightseeing in Ise are popular (travel time varies depending on departure point and transportation method).
- Nature and hiking trails: The surrounding mountain areas are dotted with places where you can enjoy hiking and mountain stream walks. You can enjoy nature in every season.
(Note) The specific spots and travel times will vary depending on your accommodation and mode of transportation. It is convenient to check the suggested itinerary at your accommodation or tourist information center.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: Lodging and day-use facilities are crowded on weekends, consecutive holidays, during the autumn foliage season, and during the New Year holidays. If you plan to use the facilities, we recommend making a reservation in advance.
- Bathing etiquette: Please observe general hot spring etiquette (such as pouring water over yourself, not putting towels in the bath, and avoiding monopolizing the bath for long periods of time). Please refrain from drinking alcohol or shouting in public baths or footbaths.
– Facility opening hours: Many facilities have limited opening hours for day-use bathing, so please check before you arrive.
- Traffic and road conditions: Roads in mountainous areas are narrow and have many curves. In winter, there is a possibility of freezing and snow accumulation, so be sure to prepare studless tires and chains and check your driving plan. When using public transportation, there are sections where there are few trains, so it is a good idea to check the timetable for your return journey.
- Consideration for the surrounding environment: Please be considerate to the natural environment and local residents by taking your trash with you and avoiding noise.
supplement
– Please check the official website or contact the accommodation for the latest information on facilities, timetables, and hotel shuttle services. Transportation methods and business hours may be subject to change.
If necessary, we can provide more detailed text (including addresses and contact information) for you to copy and paste, such as the name of the nearest station, route, specific bus times, and examples of recommended accommodations. If you wish, please let us know your departure point (e.g. Nagoya/Osaka/Tokyo).
