Discover the Charms of Yugawara Onsen: A Cozy Hakone Alternative

Introduction to Yugawara

Nestled along the scenic coastline of Kanagawa Prefecture, Yugawara is a charming hot spring town known for its tranquil atmosphere and therapeutic waters. Historically, Yugawara has been a favored retreat for Japanese nobility and literary figures seeking solace and inspiration in its serene environment. The town's hot springs, rich in minerals, are renowned for their healing properties, making it a popular destination for those looking to unwind and rejuvenate.

Relation to Hakone

Yugawara shares a close geographical and cultural relationship with the famed Hakone region, one of Japan's premier hot spring destinations. Located just a short distance away, Yugawara offers a quieter alternative to the bustling hot spring resorts of Hakone, while still providing easy access to its attractions. Visitors to Yugawara can enjoy the best of both worlds: the peaceful ambiance of a lesser-known hot spring town and the exciting excursions to Hakone's iconic sites such as the Hakone Open-Air Museum, Lake Ashi, and the historic Hakone Shrine. This proximity allows travelers to explore the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of both regions seamlessly.

Hot Springs

Key Bathhouses for Day Use

Man-yo Park: Yugawara Sōyu (Sōyu Terrace)

Located 1.5 hours from Tokyo, Man-yo Park in the heart of Yugawara Onsen is home to the historical “Yugawara Sōyu Books and Retreat.” Here, you can immerse yourself in hot springs surrounded by trees and the sound of flowing rivers. Enjoy seasonal meals and find a serene escape from daily life.

Kogome no Yu

For a relaxing day-trip, visit this town-run hot spring facility. It offers open-air and large baths for both men and women, free rest areas, and a dining hall with views of the town. The gentle saline springs warm your body deeply and have healing properties. It's perfect for unwinding after a hike or a stroll.

New Welcity Yugawara / Izumi no Yu

Experience one of the area's largest open-air baths at “Izumi no Yu.” Surrounded by bamboo, rocks, wood, and greenery, it offers a deeply relaxing atmosphere. Facilities include a sauna, relaxation room, and dining options with a variety of meals like pork belly bowls and seafood dishes.

Miyakami no Yu

Opened in January 2019, this day-trip hot spring facility features Yugawara’s first carbonated spring, which lowers blood pressure and improves circulation. Enjoy mud pack steam saunas and herbal steam tents, followed by relaxation in the "Koshikake-dokoro" rest area on the second floor.

Otaki Hotel

Adjacent to the famed Fudo Falls, Otaki Hotel offers day-trip bathing with open-air baths fed by a plentiful hot spring. Enjoy these facilities from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM on weekdays, with dining plans available upon reservation.

Forest Resort Yugawara Onsen Hotel Shiroyama / Yugawara Radon Center

Just a two-minute walk from Yugawara Station, this hotel offers both natural and radon hot springs in newly renovated baths. Enjoy the therapeutic waters and unwind in a peaceful setting.

Fango Therapy

Yugawara Onsen, known for its health benefits, offers Fango therapy using hot spring mud aged for a month. This modern treatment improves metabolism and boosts immunity. Reservations are required for this rejuvenating experience.

Koyo-kan Inn

Located along the Chitose River, Koyo-kan Inn boasts private hot springs with a temperature of 84°C. The slightly alkaline sodium spring is perfect for recovering from fatigue.

Other Notable Hot Spring Ryokan and Hotels

1. The Ryokan Tokyo Yugawara Modern design, private open-air baths, traditional kaiseki meals, and a variety of room types including dormitory-style and private rooms.

2. Yugawara Ryokan Manyo Traditional Japanese architecture, beautiful garden views, open-air hot spring baths, and seasonal kaiseki cuisine.

3. Tsubaki Luxurious ryokan with elegant rooms, private open-air baths, a serene garden, and exquisite Japanese cuisine.

4. Seiranso Traditional Japanese ryokan experience, outdoor hot spring baths surrounded by nature, and traditional multi-course meals.

5. Fudoguchikan Quiet and intimate ryokan, indoor and outdoor hot spring baths, rooms with private open-air baths, and fine dining with local ingredients.

6. Okuyugawara Onsen Uoki Family-friendly ryokan, open-air hot spring baths, traditional Japanese meals, and comfortable tatami rooms.

7. Kanzan Ryokan Cozy ryokan with a homely atmosphere, beautiful garden views, hot spring baths, and fresh, locally sourced cuisine.

Sightseeing & Activities

Natural Beauty

• Ume no Utage (Plum Blossom Festival): Held from February 3 to March 10, enjoy about 4,000 plum trees in full bloom at Makuyama Park.
• Fudo Falls: Experience the refreshing 15-meter waterfall and nearby tea shops and footbaths.
• Makuyama Park: Famous for its plum blossom festival, it also offers hiking, barbecues, and athletic facilities.
• Mikan Picking: From October to December, enjoy sweet oranges while taking in views of the Sagami Bay.
• Ikemine Momiji no Sato: A popular spot for autumn leaves, with about 540 maples creating a stunning red tunnel.
• Yoshihama Beach: Known for its high water quality and safety, this beach is ideal for swimming and relaxation.
• Hoshigayama Park: Home to 50,000 blooming azaleas in late spring, offering breathtaking views and picnic spots.
• Manyo Park: Stroll through this park inspired by ancient poetry, with beautiful seasonal flowers and a foot bath.

Nature and Outdoor Activities:

1. Fudo Falls: Hike to this scenic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
2. Makuyama Park: Enjoy hiking trails and stunning views, especially during the plum blossom season in early spring.
3. Doi Castle Ruins: Hike to the ruins of this historical castle for a mix of history and nature.
4. Shiroyama Hiking Course: Enjoy panoramic views of Sagami Bay and explore spiritual sites along the way.

Cultural Places of Interest

• Shitodo Cave: A historical cave with over 20 stone Buddha statues, providing a cool, serene escape, which has connections to local legends and samurai history.
• Yugawara Art Museum: Explore local art and culture through various exhibitions and collections.

Local Cuisine and Shopping:

1. Local Restaurants: Savor traditional Japanese cuisine, including fresh seafood from the nearby coast.
2. Souvenir Shopping: Visit local shops to buy traditional crafts, hot spring products, and local delicacies.

Festivals and Events:

1. Plum Blossom Festival: Held in Makuyama Park, this festival celebrates the blooming of over 4,000 plum trees.
2. Fireworks Festivals: Enjoy summer fireworks displays that light up the night sky.

Nearby Attractions:

1. Hakone: Take a short trip to the nearby Hakone area for more hot springs, the famous Hakone Open-Air Museum, and the scenic Lake Ashi.
2. Atami: Visit the neighboring onsen town of Atami for more hot springs, beautiful beaches, and the MOA Museum of Art.

Access

From Hakone:

1. By Train and Bus:
   • Take the Hakone Tozan Line from Hakone-Yumoto Station to Odawara Station (approximately 15 minutes).
   • From Odawara Station, transfer to the JR Tokaido Line and take a train to Yugawara Station (approximately 20 minutes).
   • From Yugawara Station, you can take a bus or taxi to reach your onsen destination.

From Kamakura:

1. By Train:
   • Take the JR Yokosuka Line from Kamakura Station to Yokohama Station (approximately 25 minutes).
   • From Yokohama Station, transfer to the JR Tokaido Line and take a train to Yugawara Station (approximately 1 hour).
   • From Yugawara Station, you can take a bus or taxi to your onsen destination.

From Tokyo:

1. By Train:
   • Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Odawara Station (approximately 35 minutes).
   • From Odawara Station, transfer to the JR Tokaido Line and take a train to Yugawara Station (approximately 20 minutes).
   • From Yugawara Station, you can take a bus or taxi to reach your onsen destination.
2. By Highway Bus:
   • Take a highway bus from Shinjuku Station or Tokyo Station directly to Yugawara Onsen (approximately 2 hours). Check the bus schedules and availability in advance.