Yunomine Onsen (Motomiyacho, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Yunomine Onsen is a hot spring resort located in the Hongu area of the Kumano Kodo, and is considered one of the oldest hot springs in Japan. As a pilgrimage site to Kumano, it has long been associated with faith and has been used by pilgrims for purification and to recover from fatigue. In 2004, the "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range" was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, bringing renewed attention to the historical value of this region.

The hot spring water is characterized by its acidic sulfur content and high temperature. It is particularly famous for its small bathtub called "Tsuboyu," a cozy wooden tub that is also included as a component part of the World Heritage Site. The hot spring water is used for drinking and for making hot spring eggs, and its charm lies in the fact that it retains the simple and quiet atmosphere of a hot spring cure and pilgrimage.

Highlights

• Tsuboyu: A small public bath that can accommodate only a few people at a time. It has great historical value and is often used on a short-term rotation basis.
• Public baths and foot baths: In addition to the baths at the inns, there are also public baths that can be used for day trips and foot baths that are free or paid and can be enjoyed while exploring the area.
• Hot spring eggs (boiled in hot springs): You can try boiling eggs using the hot spring water (please follow the designated area and rules).
• Connection to the Kumano Kodo: Yunomine is located on the Kumano Kodo route, including Nakahechi, allowing you to experience the history and nature of the pilgrimage route.
• Townscape and hot spring inns: Traditional inns and guesthouses line the streets, and you can enjoy local cuisine and hot springs.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• The nearest major stations are Kii-Tanabe Station (JR Kinokuni Line) and Shingu Station (JR Kisei Main Line). From either station, the most common way to get to Yunomine Onsen is by local bus, taxi, or rental car.
• Bus: Buses bound for Motomiya run from Kii-Tanabe Station and Shingu Station (times and operating companies vary depending on the season, so please check the official timetable in advance).
• By car: Take the Hanwa Expressway (Nankitanabe IC) or the Kisei Expressway, then take National Highways 42 and 311. It takes about 1-2 hours (depending on the starting point and traffic conditions). Parking lots are scattered throughout the town, but please note that there are not many spaces available.
• Taxi: Taking a taxi from a nearby station is convenient, especially if you have luggage or if there are fewer buses in the evening.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Day trip: Visiting the hot springs and using the foot baths and public baths takes approximately 1 to 3 hours.
• Bathing + Meal: If you want to spend a relaxing time at the hot springs, it will take about half a day (3-5 hours).
• Walking and lodging: If you plan to walk part of the Kumano Kodo trail and combine it with sightseeing in the surrounding area, we recommend staying one to two nights. You can relax and unwind by staying at a hot spring inn.

Nearby spots

• Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine (Honmiya): One of the Kumano Sanzan shrines that is easily accessible from Yunomine. The large torii gate at Oyunohara is also a must-see.
• Oyunohara: A photo spot with a huge torii gate standing on an island in the Kumano River.
• Kawayu Onsen: A nearby hot spring resort where hot springs gush out from the riverbed, making it a great place to enjoy a swim in the river.
• Kumano Kodo (Nakahechi): Experience history and nature by walking along the World Heritage pilgrimage route. Yunomine is one of the bases for the ancient route.

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

• Use of Tsuboyu: Because the baths are very small, there may be restrictions on entry, shifts, and bathing time. Please follow the instructions of on-site guides and staff.
• Bathing etiquette: Please observe general hot spring etiquette, such as always washing your body before bathing, not putting towels in the water, and avoiding monopolizing the bath for long periods of time. Some facilities will refuse bathing if you have tattoos, so please check in advance.
• Caution: The source temperature is high in some places. Infants, the elderly, and those with heart disease or high blood pressure should not overexert themselves and should only bathe for short periods of time, and check the temperature by pouring water over themselves.
• Busy periods: Golden Week, summer vacation, autumn foliage season, and the New Year's holidays tend to be busy. We recommend making reservations early for lodging and Tsuboyu baths.
• Weather and Access: During the rainy season and typhoon season, bus routes may be suspended and roads may be closed along the Kumano route. Parts of the Kumano Kodo may become impassable due to heavy rain, so be sure to check traffic information and weather forecasts in advance.
• Local rules and culture: This is an area associated with Kumano faith. Please be quiet at shrines and on pilgrimage routes, and respect local rules such as taking your trash with you.

(Note) Actual bus times, business hours, bathing fees, etc. may be subject to change. We recommend checking the latest information with the official websites of each facility, local government, and your accommodation before visiting.