Nasu Yumoto Onsen (Nasu Town, Nasu District, Tochigi Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Nasu Yumoto Onsen is a historic hot spring resort located at the gateway to the Nasu Highlands. Spreading out at the foot of Mt. Chausu, the hot spring town has long been a popular base for mountain worship and hot spring cures. Surrounded by nature, its greatest appeal is the ability to enjoy the changing scenery of the seasons (fresh greenery, escaping the heat, autumn leaves, and snowscapes) while touring the hot springs. Scattered throughout the area are inns and hot spring facilities, many of which offer open-air baths, foot baths, and day-trip baths, welcoming a wide range of visitors, from families to couples and solo travelers.

Highlights

• The atmosphere of the hot spring town: A street lined with traditional inns and souvenir shops. You can enjoy the hot spring atmosphere while strolling around.
• Open-air baths and foot baths: There are open-air baths with mountain views and free foot bath spots scattered around the area.
• A base for mountain climbing and hiking: With easy access to Mt. Chausu and the Nasu Highlands Trail, it's a convenient place to stop by before or after a trek.
• Day-trip hot spring facilities: There are easy-to-use day-trip facilities that can be used in between sightseeing.
• Local cuisine and ingredients: Enjoy dishes made with Nasu beef and dairy products from the farm.
• Historical and cultural spots: There are shrines and historical sites related to hot springs, and some inns boast a long history.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Train + Bus: The nearest major station is JR Nasushiobara Station. From Nasushiobara Station, take a local bus towards Nasu-Yumoto and get off at the bus stop (takes about 40-60 minutes, number of buses varies depending on the time of day).
• Train + Taxi: Take a taxi from Nasushiobara Station or Kuroiso Station to the site (takes about 30-40 minutes, convenient if you have a large group or a lot of luggage).
• By car: Approximately 20-30 minutes on a local road from Nasu IC on the Tohoku Expressway (depending on road conditions). Parking is available at your accommodation or nearby facilities.
• From Tokyo: Approximately 1 hour 10 to 1 hour 40 minutes by Shinkansen to Nasushiobara Station, plus 40 minutes to 1 hour by bus or car. By car, it will take approximately 2 to 3 hours depending on traffic conditions.
• Note: The number of buses varies depending on the season and day of the week, so we recommend checking the timetable in advance.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Day trip: Hot spring bathing and a stroll around the area takes half a day to a full day (3 to 6 hours).
• Two days and one night: If you want to stay overnight, enjoy the hot springs in the evening and morning, and then go hiking or sightseeing in the area the next day, one night is the best option.
• Relaxed stay: If you combine sightseeing and activities, a stay of two nights or more will allow you to fully enjoy the highland scenery and surrounding facilities.

Nearby spots

• Chausu-dake Nasu Ropeway: Enjoy hiking and the view from the summit.
• Nasu Animal Kingdom/Nasu Safari Park: A popular animal facility for families with children.
• Minamioka Ranch and Nasu Kogen Ranch: Dairy farming experiences and gourmet spots such as soft serve ice cream.
• Nasu Garden Outlet: Plenty of shopping and dining options.
• Nasu Stained Glass Museum and Gallery: A facility for art and craft lovers.
• Nasu Onsen Shrine: A shrine where you can learn about the history and beliefs surrounding hot springs.

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

• Crowds: Accommodations, roads, and tourist spots will be crowded during Golden Week, summer vacation, autumn foliage season, and the New Year holidays. We recommend making reservations early, especially on weekends.
• Onsen etiquette: Please observe basic manners such as pouring water over yourself before bathing, not putting towels in the bath, and washing your body properly in the washing area. Facilities may have strict regulations regarding tattoos, so be sure to check in advance or take measures to hide them.
• Day-trip bathing hours: Even facilities that allow day-trip use often have set reception hours. Be sure to check with the accommodation or facility to see if they accept reservations in advance.
• Transportation and winter preparations: In winter, access may take longer due to frozen or snowy roads. Be sure to bring studless tires and chains, and check the status of public transportation.
• Consideration for the natural environment: As this is a mountainous area, be careful of wild animals and sudden changes in weather. If you are going into the mountains, be sure to have the right equipment and gather the necessary information.
• Volcano and Eruption Information: The Nasu region has volcanic terrain. When hiking or using the ropeway, please check weather and volcano information as well as hiking trail traffic information.

Nasu Yumoto Onsen is a hot spring resort where you can relax and enjoy nature, hot springs, and local cuisine. As the area changes with the seasons, planning your visit accordingly will ensure a more fulfilling stay.