Sakakibara Hot Spring (Mie Prefecture) Complete Guide|History, Benefits, and Recommended Inns of the Beautiful Skin Hot Spring
Sakakibara Hot Spring, located in Tsu City, Mie Prefecture, is known as a renowned hot spring with a history spanning over 1,000 years. It is said that “Nanakuri no Yu” mentioned by Sei Shonagon in “The Pillow Book” as “Hot springs are Nanakuri Hot Spring, Arima Hot Spring, and Tamacut Hot Spring” refers to Sakakibara Hot Spring, and it has been cherished since ancient times as one of Japan’s three most famous hot springs.
This article will comprehensively introduce the charm of Sakakibara Hot Spring. We will provide detailed explanations covering the history and water quality of the hot spring, its benefits such as beautiful skin effects, recommended inns, nearby tourist attractions, and access methods—everything you should know before visiting Sakakibara Hot Spring.
What is Sakakibara Hot Spring|A Famous Hot Spring for Beautiful Skin Boasted by Mie Prefecture
Sakakibara Hot Spring is a hot spring resort located in Sakakibara Town, Tsu City, Mie Prefecture, situated quietly at the foot of the Aoyama Plateau at an elevation of approximately 300 meters. Surrounded by lush mountains, it offers an environment where you can enjoy nature’s beauty throughout the seasons.
Though the hot spring town is relatively compact, it features a diverse array of accommodations ranging from long-established inns to modern lodging facilities, each with its own unique charm. The ability to spend leisurely time away from the hustle and bustle of the city is a major attraction of Sakakibara Hot Spring.
Geographical Characteristics of Sakakibara Hot Spring
Sakakibara Hot Spring is located in the western part of Tsu City, approximately 20 minutes by car from the Kurui IC of the Ise Expressway. It is conveniently accessible, being about 1 hour 30 minutes from Nagoya and about 2 hours from Osaka. Located at an elevation of around 300 meters, it is characterized by a relatively cool and comfortable climate even in summer.
The hot spring town is formed along the Sakakibara River that runs through the center of the resort, allowing for pleasant walks while listening to the sound of the river. Nearby attractions include the wind power generation facilities of Aoyama Plateau and Akame Shijuhasshitaki (Akame Forty-Eight Waterfalls), making it an ideal location where you can enjoy nature along with the hot spring.
History of Sakakibara Hot Spring|A Famous Hot Spring Loved by Sei Shonagon
The history of Sakakibara Hot Spring is ancient, with its origins said to trace back to before the Heian period. The most famous reference is by Sei Shonagon, a female writer of the Heian period, who mentioned “Nanakuri no Yu” in “The Pillow Book.” This “Nanakuri Hot Spring” is believed to refer to Sakakibara Hot Spring, suggesting it was known to the nobility of the capital even then.
Origin of the Name “Nanakuri Hot Spring”
There are various theories about the origin of the name “Nanakuri,” but the most credible concerns a legend related to the discovery of the hot spring. According to an old tale, a hunter living in this area discovered the hot spring after witnessing an injured deer bathing in the water to heal its wounds. The name “Nanakuri no Yu” came from the fact that seven chestnut trees grew at that location.
Another theory suggests it derives from the name “Nanakuri District” (Nanakuri-gun) in this region. Regardless, it is certain that this is a historic hot spring that has been known by the name “Nanakuri” since ancient times.
From the Edo Period to the Present
During the Edo period, it was used as a bathing resort by the lords of the Tsu Domain and developed under the domain’s protection. According to records from that time, it was visited by many hot spring therapy guests due to its reputed efficacy for skin diseases and neuralgia.
After the Meiji period, as transportation networks developed, the hot spring became widely known to the general public, and development of the resort progressed. With the arrival of the Showa period, full-scale development as a tourist hot spring resort began, forming the hot spring town as it exists today.
Since the Heisei period, each inn has continued to modernize its facilities while preserving the hot spring town’s history and traditions. In the 2000s, Sakakibara gained increased recognition as a “beautiful skin hot spring,” leading to a resurgence in popularity, particularly among female visitors.
Water Quality and Benefits of Sakakibara Hot Spring|Why Beautiful Skin Effects Are Expected
The reason Sakakibara Hot Spring is known as a “beautiful skin hot spring” lies in its unique water quality. Here, we will provide a detailed explanation of Sakakibara Hot Spring’s water quality and its expected benefits.
Characteristics of the Water Quality
Sakakibara Hot Spring has an alkaline simple hot spring water quality, with a pH of approximately 9.5, indicating a highly alkaline nature. This high alkalinity is the secret to its beautiful skin effects.
The main water quality data is as follows:
- Water Quality: Alkaline simple hot spring water
- pH Value: Approximately 9.5 (highly alkaline)
- Spring Temperature: Approximately 45–60℃ (depending on the source)
- Discharge Volume: Abundant (approximately 1,500 liters per minute)
- Color: Colorless and transparent
- Smell: Odorless
- Taste: Slightly sweet
The hot spring water is colorless and transparent with no odor, but has a distinctive slippery feel when it touches the skin. This is a characteristic feature of highly alkaline hot springs and is due to their action of dissolving old dead skin cells on the skin.
Mechanism of Beautiful Skin Effects
The reasons Sakakibara Hot Spring is called a “beautiful skin hot spring” are explained by the following mechanisms:
- Keratin-Softening Action: The highly alkaline water softens the old dead skin cells on the skin and naturally removes them. This results in smooth, silky skin.
- Cleansing Effect: Alkaline water has a natural soap-like action that gently washes away dirt and excess sebum from the pores.
- Moisturizing Effect: Hot spring components form a thin film on the skin, preventing dryness after bathing.
- Blood Circulation Promotion: The thermal effect of the hot spring promotes blood circulation, activating skin metabolism.
These combined actions result in noticeably softer and smoother skin after bathing.
Other Benefits
Beyond beautiful skin effects, Sakakibara Hot Spring offers the following expected benefits:
General Applicable Conditions:
- Neuralgia
- Muscle pain
- Joint pain
- Frozen shoulder
- Muscular paralysis
- Joint stiffness
- Bruises
- Sprains
- Chronic digestive disorders
- Hemorrhoids
- Cold sensitivity
- Post-illness recovery
- Fatigue recovery
- Health promotion
In particular, its effects on neuralgia, rheumatism, and cold sensitivity have been known since ancient times, and many people come for extended stays for hot spring therapy.
Precautions When Bathing
Here are bathing methods and precautions to maximize the enjoyment of Sakakibara Hot Spring:
- Before Bathing: Rinse your body lightly with water before entering the hot spring. It is important to acclimate your body.
- Bathing Time: One bathing session should last approximately 10–15 minutes. Long baths place strain on the body.
- After Bathing: To retain hot spring components on your skin, it is recommended to dry off with a towel without rinsing (however, those with sensitive skin may rinse lightly with fresh water if preferred).
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water before and after bathing.
- Contraindications: Those with acute illnesses, active tuberculosis, malignant tumors, severe heart disease, or who are pregnant should refrain from bathing or consult a physician.
Recommended Inns and Hotels in Sakakibara Hot Spring
Sakakibara Hot Spring has various types of accommodations ranging from historic traditional inns to modern hotels. Here, we introduce particularly recommended inns.
Charm of Traditional Inns
Kamiyukan (神湯館)
One of the representative traditional inns of Sakakibara Hot Spring with over 100 years of history. Its pure Japanese architecture and gardens are beautiful, allowing you to fully experience the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese inn. It features a large public bath and open-air bath with fresh hot spring water, allowing you to luxuriously enjoy Sakakibara Hot Spring. Meals consist of kaiseki cuisine using abundant local Mie Prefecture ingredients, with dishes featuring Matsusaka beef and spiny lobster being particularly popular.
Yunose (湯の瀬)
A charming inn situated on the banks of Sakakibara River where you can enjoy hot springs while listening to the river’s murmur. The view from the open-air bath is wonderful, particularly spectacular during new green season and autumn foliage. Guest rooms are primarily Japanese-style, allowing you to spend leisurely time in a calm atmosphere.
Modern Hotels
Sakakibara Hot Spring Sei Shonagon (榊原温泉 清少納言)
A large modern hotel with contemporary facilities, popular with families and group travelers. The facility features multiple baths, each offering hot springs with different attractions. In particular, guest rooms with private open-air baths are popular, allowing you to fully enjoy hot springs in a private space. Buffet-style meals are also offered, ideal for those wishing to enjoy diverse cuisine.
Sakakibara-kan (榊原館)
An inn characterized by Wa-modern design where tradition and modernity blend, creating an appealing space. The hot spring strictly uses 100% fresh spring water, allowing you to purely enjoy Sakakibara’s water quality. Relaxation facilities including spa and massage services are well-equipped, making it particularly popular with female guests.
Day-Trip Hot Spring Facilities
You can also enjoy Sakakibara Hot Spring without staying overnight at day-trip facilities.
Sakakibara Hot Spring Yu no Sho (榊原温泉 湯の庄)
A day-trip bathing facility where you can enjoy Sakakibara Hot Spring at reasonable prices. It features a large public bath, open-air bath, and sauna, and is cherished by locals. A dining area is also available, allowing you to enjoy both the hot spring and meals. Many inns also accept day-trip bathing, though advance reservations may be necessary or time slots may be limited, so we recommend checking in advance.
Tourist Attractions Around Sakakibara Hot Spring
When visiting Sakakibara Hot Spring, be sure to enjoy nearby tourist attractions as well. The area around the hot spring town features nature-rich scenic spots and historic locations.
Aoyama Plateau
Located approximately 30 minutes by car from Sakakibara Hot Spring, Aoyama Plateau is a highland area at an elevation of approximately 800 meters. It features vast grasslands ideal for hiking and picnicking from spring through autumn. The most famous feature is the group of wind power turbines standing on the plateau, with approximately 90 turbines creating a spectacular sight. The observation deck offers views of Ise Bay and the Suzuka Mountain Range, providing spectacular scenery on clear days.
Akame Shijuhasshitaki (Akame Forty-Eight Waterfalls)
Located approximately 40 minutes by car from Sakakibara Hot Spring, Akame Forty-Eight Waterfalls is one of Mie Prefecture’s representative scenic spots. A 4-kilometer gorge features numerous waterfalls of various sizes, with “Fudo Waterfall,” “Senju Waterfall,” “Nunohiki Waterfall,” “Natsura Waterfall,” and “Biwa Waterfall” collectively known as the “Akame Five Waterfalls” being particularly impressive. Well-maintained walking paths allow you to enjoy forest bathing while bathed in negative ions.
Tourist Attractions Within Tsu City
The city of Tsu, which serves as the gateway to Sakakibara Hot Spring, offers plenty of things to see.
Tsu Castle Ruins: The ruins of a castle built during the Warring States period, now developed as a park. Known as a cherry blossom viewing spot in spring.
Tsu Kannon: Considered one of Japan’s three Kannon temples, its main hall is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. A fair is held on the 18th of each month, drawing many visitors.
Sakakibara Hot Spring Ishiyama Shrine (榊原温泉 射山神社): A shrine near the hot spring town revered as the guardian deity of the hot spring. Its quiet grounds are also ideal for walking.
Gourmet Spots
Matsusaka Beef: A representative brand beef of Mie Prefecture, with restaurants around Sakakibara Hot Spring offering Matsusaka beef. While enjoying it in your inn’s dinner is wonderful, trying grilled or sukiyaki at specialty restaurants is also recommended.
Ise Udon: This Mie Prefecture soul food can be enjoyed at nearby dining establishments. Thick, soft noodles are coated in rich sauce, creating a unique flavor.
Local Sake: Mie Prefecture is known as a sake production region, and Sakakibara Hot Spring inns also offer local premium sake.
Access Methods to Sakakibara Hot Spring
We provide detailed access methods to Sakakibara Hot Spring by transportation type.
Access by Train
Using Kintetsu Line:
- Get off at “Sakakibara Onsen-guchi Station” on the Kintetsu Osaka Line
- Approximately 10 minutes by local bus or taxi from the station
From Kintetsu Nagoya Station to Sakakibara Onsen-guchi Station takes about 1 hour by express train, and about 1 hour 30 minutes from Osaka-Namba Station. It is approximately 5 kilometers from Sakakibara Onsen-guchi Station to the hot spring town, and since local bus service is limited, we recommend checking the timetable in advance or using a taxi. Many inns provide shuttle service from Sakakibara Onsen-guchi Station, so please confirm when making reservations.
Using JR Line:
- Get off at “Kurui Station” on the JR Kisei Line
- Approximately 30 minutes by local bus or taxi from the station
While access from JR Kurui Station is possible, access from Kintetsu Sakakibara Onsen-guchi Station is closer and more convenient.
Access by Car
Car access is most convenient, with the following routes available.
From the Nagoya Area:
- From “Kurui IC” on the Ise Expressway, approximately 20 minutes (about 15 kilometers)
- Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from Nagoya City
From the Osaka Area:
- Via Nishi-Meihan Expressway and Meihan National Route to Ise Expressway “Kurui IC,” approximately 20 minutes
- Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours from Osaka City
From the Kyoto Area:
- Via Meishin Expressway, Shin-Meishin Expressway, and Ise Expressway to “Kurui IC,” approximately 20 minutes
- Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours from Kyoto City
From Kurui IC, proceed via National Route 165 to Prefectural Route 28 and follow the directional signs to reach Sakakibara Hot Spring. Roads are relatively well-maintained, though it becomes mountain roads as you approach the hot spring town, so care is needed when driving.
Each inn has a parking lot, making car visits worry-free.
Bus Tours
Many day-trip and overnight bus tours departing from major cities such as Nagoya and Osaka include Sakakibara Hot Spring. The advantage is no need to worry about driving, and the ability to efficiently combine with other tourist attractions. Try searching on travel company websites.
Model Courses for Enjoying Sakakibara Hot Spring
We propose model courses to maximize enjoyment of Sakakibara Hot Spring.
1-Night 2-Day Relaxing Plan
Day 1:
- 12:00 Arrive at Sakakibara Hot Spring, inn check-in
- 13:00 Lunch (at inn or nearby restaurant)
- 14:00 Hot spring town stroll, visit Ishiyama Shrine
- 15:00 Hot spring bathing at inn
- 18:00 Dinner (kaiseki cuisine)
- 20:00 Evening hot spring bathing
- 21:00 Relax in your room
Day 2:
- 07:00 Morning hot spring bathing
- 08:00 Breakfast
- 10:00 Check out
- 10:30 Drive to Aoyama Plateau (approximately 30 minutes)
- 12:00 Lunch in Tsu City
- 14:00 Visit Tsu Kannon
- 15:00 Depart
Day-Trip Plan
Half-Day Course:
- 10:00 Arrive at Sakakibara Hot Spring
- 10:30 Day-trip hot spring bathing
- 12:00 Lunch (at hot spring town restaurant)
- 13:30 Hot spring town stroll
- 14:30 Depart
Full-Day Course:
- 09:00 Arrive at Akame Forty-Eight Waterfalls, explore (approximately 2 hours)
- 12:00 Lunch
- 13:30 Arrive at Sakakibara Hot Spring
- 14:00 Day-trip hot spring bathing
- 16:00 Hot spring town stroll, souvenir shopping
- 17:00 Depart
2-Night 3-Day Full Enjoyment Plan
Day 1:
- Arrive at Sakakibara Hot Spring in the afternoon
- Enjoy hot spring and dinner
Day 2:
- After breakfast, visit Aoyama Plateau
- After lunch, explore Akame Forty-Eight Waterfalls
- Return to Sakakibara Hot Spring in the evening for bathing
- Dinner
Day 3:
- After breakfast, sightseeing in Tsu City
- Lunch and return home
These are merely examples, so please feel free to arrange them according to your interests and physical condition.
Souvenirs and Local Products of Sakakibara Hot Spring
When visiting Sakakibara Hot Spring, be sure to purchase local souvenirs.
Hot Spring-Related Goods
Hot Spring Cosmetics: Toner and soap made with Sakakibara Hot Spring water are popular. You can enjoy the beautiful skin benefits of hot spring components at home.
Bath Salts: Bath salts recreating Sakakibara Hot Spring components are sold, allowing you to enjoy the Sakakibara Hot Spring experience at home.
Foods and Sweets
Hot Spring Steamed Buns: A standard hot spring souvenir, with several varieties available at Sakakibara.
Local Sake: Mie Prefecture sake comes in abundant varieties and can be purchased at inn gift shops and liquor stores. Premium brands like “Saku” and “Jikon” are particularly popular.
Matsusaka Beef Processed Products: Matsusaka beef shiglure-ni (simmered preparation) and beef tsukudani (simmered seasoned dish) are durable souvenirs.
Ise Tea: Mie Prefecture is known as a tea production area, where high-quality Ise tea can be purchased.
Crafts
Iga Ware: The nearby Iga City is known for Iga pottery, with simple-styled ceramics popular. Tea cups and bowls are available at reasonable prices.
Kumihimo (Braided Cord): A traditional craft of the Iga region, beautiful kumihimo products are popular as accessories.
Souvenirs can be purchased at gift shops in inns and souvenir shops in the hot spring town. Also, Michi-no Eki (roadside station) “Misugi” and similar facilities carry abundant local specialty products.
Seasonal Enjoyment of Sakakibara Hot Spring
Sakakibara Hot Spring offers different attractions in each season. Here are seasonal highlights.
Spring (March–May)
Spring is the season of fresh green leaves, with mountains surrounding the hot spring town turning a vibrant green. During cherry blossom season, you can enjoy flower viewing at Tsu Castle Ruins and similar locations. Mild temperatures make it ideal for strolling. Golden Week is crowded, but the area is lively.
Summer (June–August)
Despite being summer, Sakakibara Hot Spring at high elevation remains relatively cool. Aoyama Plateau offers hiking while enjoying cool breezes. Greenery is most lush, and the combination of forest bathing and hot springs is exceptional. However, rain is frequent during the rainy season, so check weather forecasts.
Autumn (September–November)
Autumn is foliage season, with mountains surrounding Sakakibara turning red and yellow. Viewing is best from late October through mid-November. The red foliage of Akame Forty-Eight Waterfalls is also spectacular, and combining hot springs with foliage viewing is popular. Weather is stable, making it ideal for sightseeing.
Winter (December–February)
Winter is when hot springs are most cherished. Snow may fall, allowing you to enjoy snow-viewing baths. With clear air, the night sky’s stars are beautifully visible. Many inns offer special plans for year-end and New Year holidays, making it charming to welcome the new year at a hot spring.
You can enjoy Sakakibara Hot Spring’s charm regardless of season, but spring’s fresh greenery and autumn foliage are particularly recommended for spectacular scenery.
Tips for Booking Accommodations at Sakakibara Hot Spring
Here are points to consider when reserving accommodations at Sakakibara Hot Spring inns.
Reservation Timing
Early Booking Offers Savings: Many inns offer early-booking discounts. In particular, popular inns become fully booked quickly for weekends and holidays, so reservations 2–3 months in advance are recommended.
Check Last-Minute Deals: Conversely, last-minute cancellations sometimes result in discounted rates. Those with flexible plans should check last-minute reservation sites.
Reservation Methods
Official Websites: Direct reservations through inn official websites sometimes come with special benefits.
Reservation Sites: Reservation sites such as Rakuten Travel, Jalan, and Ikyu.com offer point accumulation, limited plans, and other advantages.
Phone Reservations: For specific requests, direct phone consultation with the inn is recommended.
Budget-Friendly Plans
- Weekday Plans: Weekday rates are lower and allow for relaxed time.
- Multi-Night Plans: Discounts typically apply for stays of 2+ nights.
- Anniversary Plans: Special anniversary plans are recommended for birthdays, wedding anniversaries, and other special occasions.
- Women’s Trip Plans: Women-only plans with special perks are available.
Points to Confirm
When booking, confirm the following:
- Check-in and check-out times
- Meal content (allergy accommodations, etc.)
- Availability of shuttle service
- Cancellation policy
- Hot spring water quality and bathing hours
- Guest room facilities (private open-air bath, etc.)
Conclusion|Refresh Body and Mind at Sakakibara Hot Spring
Sakakibara Hot Spring is a historic renowned hot spring praised even by Sei Shonagon and remains beloved by many today as a “beautiful skin hot spring.” Its unique alkaline water quality resulting in beautiful skin effects, abundant natural environment, and atmosphere evoking history and tradition constitute Sakakibara’s major attractions.
Located in Tsu City, Mie Prefecture, it is easily accessible from Nagoya and Osaka, making it perfect for weekend getaways. Combining with nearby tourist attractions like Aoyama Plateau and Akame Forty-Eight Waterfalls allows for even more fulfilling trips.
Enjoyable in various styles from day-trip bathing to extended stays, Sakakibara Hot Spring allows you to refresh body and mind while experiencing nature’s seasonal beauty and a historic renowned hot spring.
For your next vacation, why not visit Sakakibara Hot Spring and experience the charm of “Nanakuri no Yu,” a hot spring with over 1,000 years of history. Outstanding beautiful skin effects, Mie Prefecture’s abundant nature, and delicious cuisine will surely provide complete relaxation.
