Yubara Onsen: Alkaline Hot Springs Steeped in History

History

Yubara Onsen, located in Okayama Prefecture, has been renowned for its natural hot springs since ancient times. The region's history is deeply intertwined with the ironmaking industry, which thrived here during the Kofun period. The area is dotted with historical sites and remnants of the iron industry, such as small mountains formed from iron slag. The demanding labor of ironmaking necessitated frequent use of hot springs for therapeutic purposes, making Yubara a crucial hub for relaxation and healing.

Yubara Onsen gained historical prominence when Ukita Hideie, one of Toyotomi Hideyoshi's Five Great Elders, established a hot spring retreat here for his mother, Ofuku. She was a consort of Hideyoshi and famed for her beauty. When she fell ill, Hideie built a hot spring bath in Yubara for her recuperation. Today, Yubara Onsen is celebrated for its abundant hot spring water, which naturally gushes from the ground, providing therapeutic benefits for chronic skin diseases, wounds, burns, and diabetes. It is also known as the "Western Yokozuna" in Japan's open-air bath rankings, a testament to its exceptional quality and environment.

Hot Springs

Hot Spring Source Water and Its Qualities

Yubara Onsen's source water is renowned for its abundant and high-quality thermal springs. The hot springs are naturally gushing, meaning the water is driven to the surface by natural pressure without the need for pumps. This contributes to the purity and consistent temperature of the water. The hot springs are primarily classified as low-hypotonic alkaline hot springs, known scientifically as alkaline simple springs under the new classification system.

Key Characteristics of Yubara Onsen Source Water:

1. Alkaline Nature: The springs have an alkaline pH, which is particularly gentle on the skin. This makes the water beneficial for those with sensitive skin or skin conditions, as it can help soothe and smooth the skin.

2. Temperature: The source water temperature is naturally high, around 52 degrees Celsius (125.6 degrees Fahrenheit). This high temperature ensures the water remains warm even when mixed with cooler air or additional water, providing a consistently soothing experience.

3. Mineral Content: The water is rich in minerals such as sodium bicarbonate and other alkali substances. These minerals contribute to the therapeutic properties of the springs, aiding in the treatment of various ailments.

4. Therapeutic Benefits:

   • Chronic Skin Diseases: The alkaline nature and mineral content help in treating conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
   • Wound Healing: The springs are known for their ability to promote the healing of cuts, burns, and other skin injuries.
   • Chronic Gynecological Issues: The water has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of chronic gynecological conditions.
   • Diabetes: The springs can help manage symptoms and improve circulation in individuals with diabetes.
   • General Relaxation and Well-being: The high temperature and mineral-rich water provide overall relaxation, helping to reduce stress and muscle tension.

Hot Spring Utilization Methods:

1. Kakenagashi (Free-Flowing): This method involves allowing the spring water to flow directly into the baths without any recycling. It ensures that the water is always fresh and maintains its natural properties.

2. New Water for Each Use: Some facilities offer the luxury of filling the baths with fresh spring water for each use, providing an ultimate indulgence of purity and freshness.

3. Low Circulation: While not all baths can be fully free-flowing due to practical reasons, some maintain a low circulation system to ensure cleanliness while preserving the natural qualities of the water.

Day Use Hot Springs

1. Sunayu

   • A natural open-air bath called "Sunayu" or "Sand Bath," where hot water bubbles up through the riverbed sand. It is maintained by locals and is free to use.

2. Hand and Foot Baths

   • Located near Sunayu, these baths offer a quick and convenient way to enjoy the hot spring benefits. Free to use but maintained by the community.

3. Yumoto Onsenkan

   • A city-run facility with saunas, jacuzzis, and various bath types, including family baths. It features beautiful, skin-friendly water.

4. Shimoyubara Onsen

   • A newer addition to the Yubara Onsen family, offering baths surrounded by rice fields. Unique for its pet-friendly outdoor baths.

5. Maga Onsenkan

   • A traditional wooden bathhouse with natural rock baths and therapeutic waters known for their healing properties.

6. Ashi Onsenkan

   • Situated by the river, this facility has a long history of healing cuts and skin diseases. It features a new bathhouse and family baths.

Sightseeing and Activities

Hanzaki Center: Dedicated to the Japanese Giant Salamander, a symbol of longevity in the region. Visitors can observe these creatures and learn about their connection to Yubara Onsen.

Bishamonten & Yubara Onsen Fushimi Inari: Known for their twin shrines, these spots are popular for their unique cultural significance and cherry blossom views.

Yubara Dam Lake: The largest lake in the Chugoku region, famous for its autumn foliage and a popular spot for bass fishing.

Yubara Suspension Bridge: Known as "Yorisoibashi," this 45-meter bridge offers stunning views of Yubara Onsen and the dam.

Cherry Blossom Spots: Yubara Onsen is home to several cherry blossom spots, including Bishamonten and various sakura-lined paths, perfect for a scenic stroll.

Yubara Onsen Museum: Features exhibits on the local history and culture of Yubara Onsen, including a collection of rare books and artifacts.

Onsen Yakushido: A temple dedicated to Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of healing, known for its annual flower festival and the legend of its miraculous return after a flood.

Visitors to Yubara Onsen can enjoy a rich blend of historical charm, therapeutic hot springs, and scenic beauty, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and cultural exploration.

Access

From Okayama:

• Train and Bus: Approximately 2 hours to Chugoku-Katsuyama, then 1 hour by bus to Yubara Onsenkyo.
• Car: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

From Hiroshima:

• Shinkansen to Okayama, then Train and Bus: Approximately 35-45 minutes to Okayama, then 2 hours to Chugoku-Katsuyama, and 1 hour by bus to Yubara Onsenkyo.
• Car: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

From Okayama:

By Train and Bus:

1. Train to Chugoku-Katsuyama:

   • Starting Point: Okayama Station
   • Train: Take the JR Tsuyama Line to Tsuyama Station. Transfer to the JR Kishin Line and get off at Chugoku-Katsuyama Station.
   • Travel Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

2. Bus to Yubara Onsen:

   • Starting Point: Chugoku-Katsuyama Station
   • Bus: Take the local bus from Chugoku-Katsuyama Station to Yubara Onsenkyo.
   • Travel Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

By Car:

• Driving Route: Take the Chugoku Expressway and exit at the Yubara Interchange.
• Travel Duration: The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

From Hiroshima:

By Train and Bus:

1. Shinkansen to Okayama:

   • Starting Point: Hiroshima Station
   • Train: Take the JR Sanyo Shinkansen to Okayama Station.
   • Travel Duration: Approximately 35-45 minutes.

2. Train to Chugoku-Katsuyama:

   • Starting Point: Okayama Station
   • Train: Take the JR Tsuyama Line to Tsuyama Station. Transfer to the JR Kishin Line and get off at Chugoku-Katsuyama Station.
   • Travel Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

3. Bus to Yubara Onsen:

   • Starting Point: Chugoku-Katsuyama Station
   • Bus: Take the local bus from Chugoku-Katsuyama Station to Yubara Onsenkyo.
   • Travel Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

By Car:

• Driving Route: Take the Sanyo Expressway to Okayama, then continue on the Chugoku Expressway and exit at the Yubara Interchange.
• Travel Duration: The drive takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.