TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Hijiori Onsen is a historic hot spring resort located in Okura Village, Mogami District, Yamagata Prefecture. The atmosphere of an old hot spring town that flourished as a therapeutic hot spring remains, and its greatest appeal is the strong sense of local life and culture, such as in the "morning market." Many inns maintain the use of free-flowing hot spring water, and the abundant hot spring water has a tradition of welcoming hot spring visitors. Surrounded by the deep natural beauty of the mountains, you can enjoy the snowy scenery unique to a region with heavy snowfall in winter, autumn leaves in autumn, and a refreshing climate perfect for escaping the heat in summer.
Highlights
- Hijiori Morning Market: A morning market with a history dating back hundreds of years. It is bustling from early in the morning, with local vegetables, wild plants, homemade side dishes, and warm local products on display (please check as opening times and dates change depending on the season).
- The scenery of the hot spring resort and the town: A charming townscape where you can feel the traditional hot spring culture, with cobblestone streets, old inns, and public baths.
- Free-flowing hot spring water: The unique quality of the springs and the abundance of hot water are appealing. Many inns have open-air baths and family baths, allowing you to enjoy a quiet soak in the hot water.
- Snowy scenery and winter events: A world of silver that can only be found in areas with heavy snowfall. In winter, events such as snow huts and snow lights are sometimes held (please check for details).
- Nature walks and trekking in the surrounding area: You can enjoy the scenery of the surrounding mountains and streams through the walking trails, which change with the seasons. They are also ideal for bird watching and photography.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest major station:Shinjo Station (JR) — A connecting station for the Yamagata Shinkansen and Rikuu Line, this is a regional transportation hub.
- From Shinjo Station:Access the area by local bus, direct shuttle, or taxi. Routes and frequency of services vary depending on the season and day of the week, so please check the timetable in advance.
- car:Access is via national and prefectural roads from the Tohoku Expressway and Yamagata Expressway. In winter, snow tires or chains are required to protect against snow and ice.
- others:There are some sections where public transportation is infrequent, so if you want to travel smoothly, it may be convenient to consider renting a car or using a shuttle service to your accommodation.
*Please check the official website or accommodation in advance for specific bus times, operating companies, and route changes during winter.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip:Including travel time to and from the venue, there is little time to spare, with sightseeing and bathing taking up about 3 to 5 hours (depending on travel time from Shinjo).
- 1 night:If you want to relax in the hot springs, visit the morning market, and explore the surrounding area, we recommend staying overnight. You can experience the atmosphere of the hot spring town both at night and in the morning.
- 2 nights or more:If you plan to take your time exploring the hot springs and the surrounding nature and tourist spots, it is recommended that you stay for two nights or more.
Nearby spots
- Shinjo city center (local history museum, restaurants, etc.) - Easy to stop by as a transportation hub.
- Ginzan Onsen (towards Obanazawa City) — A tourist hot spring known for its old-fashioned wooden inns (easy to get to by car).
- Nature and boat rides along the Mogami River - A spot where you can enjoy the local river scenery.
- The hiking trails and mountain streams in the surrounding mountain areas are ideal for trekking and bird watching from spring to autumn.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Transportation and number of trains:Public transportation (such as buses) often have limited service, so please check in advance whether there is a return trip or pick-up service.
- Winter snowfall:Hijiori is a heavy snow area. If you are visiting by car, studless tires are essential, carry chains, and check road closure information. Travel times may be significantly longer due to frozen roads or snowstorms.
- Onsen Manners:Please follow the general bathing rules, such as pouring water over yourself before bathing and not using towels in the bath. Whether or not there are open-air baths and mixed bathing varies depending on the inn or facility, so be sure to check in advance.
- Tattoos:Some facilities may refuse entry to people with tattoos, so please check in advance if you are concerned.
- Seasonal opening hours:Small inns and shops may be open seasonally or have irregular closing days. In particular, the opening dates and times of morning markets and tourist facilities change depending on the season, so we recommend checking in advance.
- Quiet environment:Due to the nature of the hot spring resort, loud voices and noise late at night can be a nuisance. Please be mindful of your behavior and be respectful of the local community.
(Note) Specific bus times, event dates, and accommodation pick-up and drop-off schedules may change, so please check the latest information from the Okura Village Tourism Association, the accommodation's official website, and various transportation options before visiting.
