Yubara Hot Springs (Maniwa City, Okayama Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Yubara Onsen is a hot spring resort located in the Yubara region of Maniwa City, Okayama Prefecture. A therapeutic hot spring resort that has been loved by locals since ancient times, the hot spring town is made up of inns and public baths that have been passed down through generations. Its greatest feature is the famous mixed-gender open-air bath "Sand Bath" located on the riverside, which is separated by natural stones and embankments, creating a rustic and open feeling. The hot spring town has a laid-back atmosphere, and you can enjoy the hot springs alongside the scenery of each season (fresh greenery, autumn leaves, snowscapes).

Highlights

• Sand bath (open-air bath): A symbol of Yubara. This mixed-gender open-air bath on the riverbank allows you to enjoy bathing in harmony with the scenery (it is often open to the public free of charge, but may be closed for cleaning or with restrictions on use depending on the situation).
• Footbaths and public baths in hot spring towns: In addition to the inns, there are also many facilities offering foot baths and day-trip baths, allowing you to casually enjoy the hot springs while strolling around.
• Scenery around Yubara Dam (Lake Yubara)The area around the dam and lake is a great place to take a walk, and is especially beautiful in autumn when the leaves change color.
• Local cuisine and local ingredients: You can enjoy dishes made with river fish (such as sweetfish) and local vegetables that are unique to the mountain village at inns and restaurants.
• Sightseeing in the surrounding nature: Close to the Hiruzen Plateau, valleys, and hiking trails, you can enjoy a stay that combines hot springs with nature.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

Below are some general guidelines for both public transport and car. Please check the latest timetables and routes in advance on the official websites or with each transport company.

• public transportation: The nearest major stations are large regional terminal stations such as JR Okayama Station and JR Yonago Station. From there, it is common to take an express bus or local bus, or a bus or taxi from a station connected by JR or local train lines. Take a local bus bound for Maniwa City or Yubara, or check for direct and connecting buses from each station.
• carAccess: Take the Chugoku Expressway, Yonago Expressway, etc. Travel time from Okayama is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, and from Yonago it takes approximately 1 hour (depending on road conditions). Parking is available at inns and public parking lots.
• Taxis and sightseeing buses: There are taxis available from the nearest station, and special buses and shuttles may be available during the tourist season, so it is convenient to inquire at your accommodation or the tourist association.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Day trip with hot springs only: Approximately 2 to 4 hours, including use of the sand bath, foot bath, and public bath.
• Relax and enjoy (1 night): If you want to enjoy the hot springs at night and the inn's meals, we recommend staying overnight. Adding sightseeing in the surrounding area (such as exploring the Hiruzen Plateau or the valley) the next day will make your stay even more fulfilling.
• Sightseeing stay: If you plan to explore the surrounding nature and tourist attractions (hiking, driving, sightseeing), a stay of one to two nights or more is ideal.

Nearby spots

• Hiruzen Plateau: Approximately 30-50 minutes by car. Enjoy the highland scenery, ranches, and outdoor activities.
• Around Yubara Dam and Lake Yubara: Scenic walks and photo spots.
• Kanba Falls: A famous waterfall near Maniwa City. Popular for nature walks.
• It is possible to combine a hot spring tour with other hot spring areas in Okayama Prefecture, such as Okutsu Onsen and Yubara.
• Historical spots and local museums in Maniwa City: There are many places where you can experience local culture.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Mixed bathing and privacy: Sand baths are mixed-gender open-air baths. Please follow local signs and rules as wearing swimsuits may be prohibited or restricted. Women and foreign tourists may be reluctant to wear swimsuits, so please discuss this with your companions or use the separate baths at the inn.
• Cleaning and Closure Information: Public open-air baths and free baths may be temporarily closed for cleaning and maintenance. Please check with the tourist association or inn beforehand.
• High temperature water: The temperature of the hot spring water may be high. Please be careful of your feet and when getting out of the bath, and do not overexert yourself by staying hydrated.
• Tattoo-related issues: Some lodgings and facilities prohibit tattoos when bathing. If you have a large tattoo, please check with the lodging in advance.
• Seasonal precautions: In winter, roads may freeze or snow may accumulate, so you may need winter gear (tire chains, etc.) when accessing the area by car. During the tourist season (especially during the autumn foliage season and long weekends), the area tends to be crowded, so we recommend making your accommodation reservations early.
• Environmental conservation and manners: Please observe local etiquette by taking your trash home and keeping noise to a minimum when visiting facilities along rivers and natural areas. We ask for your cooperation in protecting the hot spring resources that are deeply rooted in the local area.

(Additional Information) For the latest business information, bus schedules, road conditions, bathing rules, etc., please be sure to check the Yubara Onsen Tourist Association, the official website of your accommodation, or the Maniwa City Tourist Information.