Ureshino Onsen — relief & relaxation | Compare & book inns

Overview

The history of Ureshino Onsen is ancient, with records in the "Fudoki of Hizen Province" compiled in the Nara period (8th century) stating, "There is a hot spring in the eastern part that can heal people's ailments." During the Edo period, it flourished as a post town on the Nagasaki Kaido highway, offering rest to countless travelers. German physician Philipp Franz von Siebold is also said to have visited and praised its waters.

The onsen town spreads along the Ureshino River, lined with charming ryokans and shops, making for a pleasant stroll after a bath. Ureshino is also one of Japan's leading tea-producing areas, and these two gifts of nature—hot springs and green tea—enrich the wellness experience of the region.

Signature Spring Qualities & Benefits

Ureshino's water is a Sodium Bicarbonate and Chloride Spring, earning it a spot among Japan's top three "beautiful skin" hot springs. The bicarbonate is expected to soften the skin's keratin layer for a silky skin effect. Additionally, the chloride content forms a thin veil on the skin, preventing moisture evaporation and providing a restorative warmth that helps you stay warm after your bath.

• CutsThe alkaline nature of the water provides a gentle cleansing effect, which may help in keeping minor abrasions clean. Soaking in the sodium bicarbonate spring is traditionally believed to support the natural healing process for small wounds.
• Sensitivity to coldSoaking in the hot, mineral-rich water can help improve blood circulation throughout the body. This warming effect may provide relief for those who often feel cold in their hands and feet, a condition known as hiesho in Japan.
• Dry skinThe spring's high alkalinity helps to soften and gently exfoliate old, keratinized skin cells. Its sodium bicarbonate content emulsifies and washes away excess oils and impurities, leaving the skin feeling exceptionally smooth and moisturized after bathing.
• Poor circulation

Water Characteristics & Best Season

The source temperature is very high, ranging from 85-95°C (185-203°F), so most facilities add cool water to adjust the temperature. The water is clear and colorless, with a unique, slightly thick, and smooth texture. It is also potable and is said to aid digestion. The local specialty, "Onsen Yudofu" (hot spring tofu), is made by simmering tofu in this mineral-rich water, which gives it a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

While enjoyable year-round, the best times to visit are spring (April-May) to enjoy the aroma of new tea leaves, and autumn (October-November) for pleasant walking weather.

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Nearby Sightseeing & Local Cuisine

• Onsen Yudofu: Ureshino's signature dish, famous for its meltingly soft texture.
• Ureshino Tea: A high-quality green tea that has won numerous national awards.
• Toyotama-hime Shrine: Home to a white catfish statue, worshipped as a god of beautiful skin.
• Siebold-no-Yu: A Gothic-style public bathhouse built in the Taisho era.
• Todoroki-no-Taki Park: A park centered around an 11-meter waterfall, perfect for a walk.
• Hizen Yoshida Pottery: A type of porcelain with a 400-year history. You can visit the kilns.
• Ureshino Chadoki: A special experience of enjoying tea time in the middle of a tea plantation.