Yubara Onsen — relief & relaxation | Compare & book inns

Overview

Yubara Onsen has a long history, with records indicating that the mother of Ukita Hideie, one of Toyotomi Hideyoshi's five great elders, visited for therapeutic bathing during the Warring States period. Hot springs once bubbled up from all over the Asahi River bed, but many sources were submerged with the construction of the Yubara Dam. Thanks to the efforts of the local community, the 'Sunayu' open-air bath was established on the riverbank just below the dam, and it remains a beloved symbol of the onsen town today.

The name 'Sunayu' (sand bath) comes from the fact that the hot spring water naturally gushes up through the sand at the bottom. Its magnificent scale has earned it the title 'Yokozuna of the West' (the highest rank in sumo wrestling). The high pH alkaline spring is also popular as a 'bijin-no-yu' (beauty-enhancing water), as it is expected to gently exfoliate old skin cells, leading to silky skin. In this open space surrounded by lush nature, you can experience deep relaxation for both mind and body.

Spring Quality and Benefits

The main spring type at Yubara Onsen is a hypotonic, alkaline simple thermal spring. It is characterized by a high alkalinity with a pH level exceeding 9.0, giving it a smooth, almost syrupy feel on the skin. This quality provides a cleansing effect, leaving your skin feeling smooth after bathing. The water is gentle and suitable for everyone, from children to the elderly.

• Autonomic instabilityThe gentle, warm waters of this simple alkaline spring may help to soothe the nervous system. Bathing in water kept at a suitable, comfortable temperature promotes relaxation, which can aid in balancing autonomic functions.
• InsomniaSoaking in the warm, gentle spring water can help relax both mind and body, easing the transition into sleep. This bathing may help regulate body temperature, a key factor in promoting a restful night.
• Depressive states
• Dry skin
• Sensitivity to coldThe spring's suitable warmth helps to improve blood circulation throughout the body. Regular bathing can help warm the body from its core, which may alleviate the chronic feeling of coldness in the hands and feet.
• Peripheral circulatory disorders

Water Characteristics & Best Season

Many ryokans (traditional inns) in Yubara Onsen offer fresh, free-flowing spring water (gensen kakenagashi). At the iconic 'Sunayu', the water temperature varies depending on where you sit, as the spring bubbles up directly from the bottom. You can find spots ranging from lukewarm to hot, allowing for a long, enjoyable soak. It is open 24 hours a day and is free of charge. As it is a mixed-gender bath, women are encouraged to wear a 'yuamigi' (bathing wear), which is available for rent.

The changing seasonal scenery is another of Yubara Onsen's charms. You can enjoy bathing amidst beautiful landscapes year-round: cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery and river fun in summer, colorful foliage in autumn, and snowy vistas in winter. Soaking in the 'Sunayu' while snow falls is a particularly magical and exceptional experience.

Access

Nearby Sightseeing & Local Cuisine

• Yubara Dam: A massive dam towering just upstream from Sunayu.
• Giant Salamander Center (Hanzaki Center): Observe the Special Natural Monument, the Japanese Giant Salamander.
• Hiruzen Highlands: A resort area with scenic pastures of Jersey cows. Ideal for cycling and hiking.
• Hiruzen Yakisoba: A local gourmet dish that won the B-1 Grand Prix, featuring a miso-based sauce.
• Katsuyama Historical Preservation District: A charming townscape with traditional white-walled and lattice-windowed houses.
• Kanba Falls: A spectacular 110-meter waterfall, selected as one of Japan's 100 best waterfalls.
• Ashi Onsen & Goroku Onsen: Quiet and quaint hot spring areas also part of the greater Yubara Onsen village.