Yugawara Hot Springs (Yugawara Town, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture)
TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Yugawara Onsen is a historic hot spring resort located in the quiet, lush town of Yugawara in western Kanagawa Prefecture. It has long been popular as a therapeutic hot spring resort, and since the Edo period has been loved by literary figures and cultural figures. The hot spring town has a tranquil atmosphere, and is close to both the sea and the mountains, making it an attractive place to easily enjoy hot springs, nature, and strolls.
There are multiple hot springs, and the waters are mainly weakly alkaline simple springs and chloride springs, which are said to be soft on the skin and have a relaxing effect. There are also many inns, day-trip hot spring facilities, and foot bath spots, so you can easily enjoy bathing in the hot springs even on a day trip.
Highlights
- Yugawara hot spring town: The atmosphere of an old-fashioned hot spring town remains, and restaurants, souvenir shops, and foot baths are scattered throughout the area. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll.
- Yugawara Plum Grove (Makuyama Park): A famous spot where plum blossoms bloom beautifully every year in early spring. It is crowded with spectators during the plum festival. Makuyama is also popular as a hiking course.
- Manyo Park: A park where you can enjoy a promenade along the stream, foot baths, and seasonal flowers. You can feel the nature of Yugawara while strolling.
- Doppo no Yu (foot bath): Free and paid footbath spots near stations and hot spring towns. You can enjoy the hot spring feeling in a short amount of time.
- Makuyama hiking: Although it is a low mountain, you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons, with the plum blossoms in spring and the mountain scenery in autumn being attractive. There are courses that are easy for beginners to climb.
- Surrounding coasts and scenic spots: You can enjoy the scenery of the nearby Manazuru Peninsula and Sagami Bay by car or bus. Seafood is also recommended.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station:Yugawara Station (JR Tokaido Main Line)
- Access by train:
- From Tokyo: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by express train (Odoriko, etc.) via Tokyo Station or Atami, or approximately 2 hours by local train (varies depending on train type and timetable).
- From Odawara: Approximately 15-20 minutes by local train.
- Access by car:
- From the Tokyo metropolitan area: Take the Tomei Expressway, Odawara-Atsugi Road, or National Route 135. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic conditions (it may take longer due to congestion).
- There are parking lots in the town and at accommodation facilities. However, it can get crowded during peak seasons, so we recommend arriving early or checking in advance.
- bus:Local buses run from the station to tourist spots and surrounding towns, and it is convenient for accessing Makuyama Park and Manyo Park.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip plan:Half a day to a full day (relaxing with a foot bath, strolling around the hot spring town, and a day trip to the hot springs).
- Accommodation plan:Two days and one night (leisurely enjoy dinner and breakfast at a hot spring inn and soaking in the hot springs). If you want to combine the hot springs with hiking and sightseeing in the surrounding area, one to two nights is ideal.
- If you include hiking:The round trip hike to Makuyama takes about 2-4 hours (depending on the course and pace).
Nearby spots
- Manazuru Peninsula: Enjoy the scenic coastline, fishing spots, and seafood cuisine.
- Atami: It is close to the bustling hot spring resort and tourist facilities, making it convenient for day trips.
- Hakone: Accessible by car or public transport. Abundant museums, hot springs, and natural sightseeing.
- Odawara Castle and Odawara City:Enjoy historical walks and tourist gourmet food.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion:It tends to get crowded on weekends, national holidays, consecutive holidays (Golden Week, New Year's holidays), and during the plum blossom viewing season (usually February to March). We recommend making reservations early, especially for popular inns.
- Bathing etiquette:Please observe general hot spring etiquette, such as rinsing off hot spring water before bathing and avoiding the use of towels or soap in the bathtub. Some facilities may have restrictions on tattoos, so be sure to check in advance.
- Feet and clothing:The hot spring town and hiking trails have many stone steps and mountain paths, which can become slippery in rainy weather. Please bring comfortable walking shoes.
- Seasonal Notes:It gets cold in winter, but there is often little snowfall. However, be careful of temperature differences. The area is crowded with cherry blossom viewers during plum blossom season and early spring, and in summer, take measures against the sun. Be careful of coastal and mountain conditions during typhoon season.
- Environmental protection and etiquette:As this is a quiet hot spring area, please be considerate by refraining from speaking loudly at night, taking your trash with you, and not disturbing the natural environment.
Yugawara Onsen is a relaxing hot spring resort just far from the city. You can enjoy everything from a short refreshment to a relaxing overnight stay, so plan your visit to suit your needs.
