Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Yumura Onsen is a historic hot spring resort located in Shin-Onsen Town, Hyogo Prefecture (adjacent to the former Hamasaka Town and Onsen Town areas). The source boasts high temperatures and abundant water, and the "Arayu" hot spring that springs up in the center of town has become a symbol of local life and tourism. It has long been a popular hot spring resort, and the hot spring town is home to inns, public baths, footbaths, and more. The soft sulfur-rich spring water is gentle on the skin and is said to be effective in relieving fatigue, cold sensitivity, and skin ailments. Other attractions include the simple atmosphere of the hot spring town, the experience of making hot spring eggs in Arayu, the snowy winter scenery, and seasonal delicacies such as Matsuba crab.
Highlights
- Arayu: A public spring where high-temperature hot spring water gushes out. It is popular with tourists as a spot where you can boil hot spring eggs and vegetables. It is also famous as a photo spot.
- Stroll around the hot spring town: Lined with inns, souvenir shops, and footbath spots, you can take a leisurely stroll while enjoying the old townscape and hot spring atmosphere.
- Day-trip bathing/public baths: There are plenty of baths scattered around that use local hot springs, and many facilities that are easy to enter (some facilities require you to bring your own towel, and fees vary by facility).
- Gourmet ExperienceIn winter, you can enjoy seafood from the Sea of Japan, such as snow crab. You can also enjoy kaiseki cuisine served at local hot spring inns.
- Four Seasons Scenery: Each season has a different look, from the fresh greenery of spring, the beach or hiking in summer, the autumn leaves, and the snowy scenery of winter.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- public transport
- The nearest JR station is Hamasaka Station on the Sanin Main Line (the nearest station may vary depending on the location). From Hamasaka Station, it is generally about a 15-30 minute bus or taxi ride (the number of buses and travel time may vary depending on the timetable).
- From Osaka or Kyoto, you can access the area by express train or local train. Depending on your departure point, you may need to transfer.
- car
- Head to the site via the Chugoku Expressway, Bantan Link Road, etc. You can also access the site via the Maizuru-Wakasa Expressway and National Route 9. Set "Yumura Onsen (Shin-Onsen Town)" as your destination on your car navigation system or map app.
- Parking is available at inns and public parking lots, but they may be full during peak seasons.
- bus
- There may be seasonal tourist buses and local buses operating, so please check the timetable and operating status in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip: 2-4 hours (including visit to Arayu, foot bath, day bath, and light meal)
- Accommodation (1 night): We recommend a one-night stay with two meals included, where you can relax and enjoy the hot springs and local cuisine. If you want to add sightseeing and explore the surrounding area, you should stay more than one night.
- Relax and enjoy: 2 nights or more (if you want to explore nearby tourist spots and enjoy seasonal cuisine)
Nearby spots
- Fishing ports and beaches along the Sea of Japan coast (enjoy the ocean views and seafood)
- Nearby castle ruins and historical spots (you can plan a trip to tourist spots in northern Hyogo Prefecture)
- Seasonal scenic spots and hiking trails (dotted with places where you can enjoy the local nature)
- A combination of hot springs in the vicinity
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Arayu is hot: The temperature of the hot spring is very high, so do not touch it with bare hands or enter it directly. Be especially careful if you are bringing children.
- congestion: During long weekends, New Year's holidays, and winter crab season, accommodations and parking lots tend to fill up quickly, so we recommend making reservations and arriving early.
- Bathing etiquettePlease observe basic bathing etiquette, such as pouring water over yourself, not putting towels in the bath, and avoiding occupying the washing area for long periods of time. Please check in advance as each inn has different rules regarding tattoos.
- Clothes/cold protection: In winter, snow accumulates and roads freeze, so we recommend taking measures to keep you warm and prevent slipping (such as using chains or studless tires).
- Information confirmation: Public transport times and facility opening hours vary depending on the season and day of the week. Please check the official information from the Shin-Onsen Town Tourism Association and each facility before visiting.
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*The information provided is for reference only. Please check the official website or tourist information center in advance for accurate access methods, opening hours, and whether or not any events are being held.
