Yugawara Hot Spring, Kanagawa Prefecture | Complete Guide to the Charm and Tourism of a Historic Renowned Spa
Yugawara Hot Spring, located in Yugawara Town, Ashigara Shimogun, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a full-fledged hot spring resort closest to the Tokyo metropolitan area and has been beloved by many people since ancient times. With convenient access of approximately 60 minutes from Yokohama and about 90 minutes from central Tokyo, along with its history mentioned in the Man’yōshū anthology and its excellent spring quality known as the “Spring of Fertility,” Yugawara Hot Spring holds great appeal. This article provides a comprehensive introduction to the charm of Yugawara Hot Spring, covering its history, spring quality, access methods, day-use hot spring facilities, accommodations, and nearby tourist attractions.
History and Cultural Value of Yugawara Hot Spring
An Ancient Hot Spring Mentioned in the Man’yōshū
The history of Yugawara Hot Spring is ancient. Among the 4,500 poems in the Man’yōshū anthology, it is one of the few hot springs mentioned and the only one north of the Kanto region. This fact proves that Yugawara Hot Spring was already a renowned hot spring known since the Nara Period.
The “Spring of Fertility” Loved Across Ages
Yugawara Hot Spring has been cherished under different names throughout different eras.
- Kamakura and Muromachi Periods: “Kogome (child-filled) Hot Spring,” “Kogomi (child-filled) Hot Spring”
- Edo Period: “Koume (child-bearing) Hot Spring”
- Edo Period Hot Spring Rankings: Selected as sekiwake (second-highest rank) in the East
As these names suggest, it has long been known as the “Spring of Fertility,” attracting many people wishing for children. It gained this reputation because its gentle, non-irritating water quality acts kindly on the body.
A Hot Spring Loved by Literati and Scholars
Yugawara Hot Spring has also been beloved by many writers and artists. In particular, author Doppo Kunikida deeply loved Yugawara and wrote many works here. In January 2003, “Doppo’s Hot Spring” (Doppo no Yu) was opened in honor of Kunikida Doppo and has become popular as Japan’s largest foot bath facility.
Spring Quality and Effects of Yugawara Hot Spring
Characteristics of the Hot Spring
Yugawara Hot Spring springs up within an eroded caldera of the Yugawara Volcano, which completed its activity hundreds of thousands of years ago. This geological background creates Yugawara Hot Spring’s unique spring quality.
Main Spring Types:
- Sulfate spring
- Simple hot spring
The water of Yugawara Hot Spring is characterized by excellent thermal and heat-retention effects, with the body remaining warm for a long time after bathing. With minimal irritation and gentle on the skin, even those with sensitive skin and small children can bathe safely.
Expected Benefits
During the medieval period, Yugawara Hot Spring was used as a spa treatment facility by samurai and villagers and was particularly known as a “spring for wounds.”
Main Benefits:
- Promotes healing of external injuries
- Relieves muscle pain and joint pain
- Aids fatigue recovery
- Improves cold sensitivity
- Relieves stress
- Helps gynecological conditions
- Alleviates neuralgia
The gentle water quality places minimal stress on the body, and long soaking is not tiring, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy hot springs leisurely.
Access to Yugawara Hot Spring
Access by Train
From Tokyo Area:
- Get off at JR Tokaido Main Line “Yugawara Station”
- Approximately 90 minutes from Tokyo Station
- Approximately 60 minutes from Yokohama Station
- Approximately 100 minutes from Shinjuku Station (using Shonan-Shinjuku Line)
From Yugawara Station to the hot spring district takes approximately 10-15 minutes by bus or about 7 minutes by taxi. Many accommodations offer complimentary shuttle service from Yugawara Station (advance reservation required).
Access by Car
Main Routes:
- Approximately 30 minutes from Ishibashi IC on the Nishi-Shonan Bypass via National Route 135
- Approximately 50 minutes from Atsugi IC on the Tomei Expressway via Odawara-Atsugi Road
- Approximately 15 minutes from Fukuura IC on Manazuru Road
The hot spring district has multiple paid parking lots, and many accommodations are equipped with dedicated parking.
Access from Airports
From Haneda Airport:
- Approximately 2 hours by limousine bus (direct service to Yugawara Hot Spring available)
- Approximately 2 hours by Keikyu Line to JR Tokaido Main Line
Charms of Day-Use Hot Spring Facilities
Yugawara Hot Spring has an abundance of easily accessible day-use hot spring facilities.
Doppo’s Hot Spring (Japan’s Largest Foot Bath Facility)
Opened in 2003, “Doppo’s Hot Spring” is Japan’s largest foot bath facility offering nine different types of foot baths.
Facility Features:
- 9 types of different foot baths (Spring of Thought, Spring of Joy, Spring of Happiness, etc.)
- Each foot bath offers different benefits
- Setting surrounded by nature
- Easy enjoyment of hot springs
Usage Information:
- Hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (10:00 AM to 5:00 PM from November to February)
- Admission: 300 yen for adults, 200 yen for elementary and middle school students
- Access: Approximately 15 minutes by bus from Yugawara Station
Other Day-Use Hot Spring Facilities
The Yugawara Hot Spring area has more than 10 day-use hot spring facilities, each offering unique hot springs.
Characteristics of Day-Use Hot Springs:
- Setting surrounded by nature
- Smooth water quality
- Open-air baths where you can feel the scent of the forest
- Many facilities with saunas
- Abundant meal and package plans
Many hot spring inns and hotels also accept day-use bathing, making it easy to use full-scale hot spring facilities—a major charm of Yugawara Hot Spring.
Accommodations at Yugawara Hot Spring
Characteristics of Hot Spring Inns
Yugawara Hot Spring has diverse accommodations located mainly along the Chitose River, which flows along the prefectural border.
Types of Accommodations:
- Luxury hot spring inns
- Affordable Japanese-style inns
- Modern hot spring hotels
- Small, hidden retreat-style lodgings
Equipment and Services of Accommodations
General Facilities:
- Open-air and large public baths
- Saunas in many facilities
- Private open-air bath options available
- Shuttle service from Yugawara Station (advance reservation required)
- Parking included
Food Characteristics:
- Fresh seafood caught in Sagami Bay
- Local mountain delicacies
- Seasonal kaiseki cuisine
- Experience Yugawara’s culinary delights
Points for Making Reservations
Yugawara Hot Spring accommodations can be searched and booked through major reservation sites such as Rakuten Travel, Jalan.net, and JTB.
Checklist When Booking:
- Availability and booking method for shuttle service
- Parking availability (if traveling by car)
- Room views
- Presence of open-air bath
- Meal plans (breakfast only, two meals, etc.)
- Cancellation policy
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Yugawara Hot Spring not only offers hot springs but also has an abundance of appealing tourist attractions nearby.
Spots for Enjoying Nature
Makuyama Park:
- Approximately 4,000 plum trees
- “Plum Festival” from late January to early March is popular
- Well-developed hiking courses
Yugawara Beach:
- Summer season only
- Beach close to the hot spring district
- Popular with families
Chitose River Promenade:
- Clear stream flowing through the hot spring district
- “Firefly Festival” held in June
- Perfect for walks while experiencing nature
Cultural and Historical Spots
Yugawara Hot Spring Shrine:
- Shrine dedicated to the guardian deity of the hot spring
- Evokes the history of the hot spring district
Sites Related to Kunikida Doppo:
- Literary walking courses starting from Doppo’s Hot Spring
- Literary monument tours
Activities
Hiking:
- Makuyama Hiking Course
- Enjoy nature throughout the four seasons
- Courses available for both beginners and intermediate hikers
Mandarin Orange Picking:
- Autumn season only
- Available at local tourist farms
- Spectacular location overlooking Sagami Bay
Sports Training Camps and Corporate Seminars:
- Gym rental service
- Ideal environment for development camps
- Possible to conduct seminars while refreshing with hot springs
Hot Spring Areas Surrounding Yugawara Hot Spring
The Yugawara Hot Spring area is also used as a collective term for multiple hot spring areas.
Composition of the Yugawara Hot Spring Area
- Yugawara Hot Spring (Central Area)
- Most facilities concentrated here
- Inns line the Chitose River
- Oku-Yugawara Hot Spring
- Quieter environment
- Retains the charm of a hidden hot spring
- Hama-Yugawara Hot Spring
- Area close to the sea
- Abundant seafood
- Izu-Yugawara Hot Spring
- Near the prefectural border with Shizuoka
- Can also enjoy the atmosphere of Izu
Nearby Hot Spring Areas
Atami Hot Spring (Shizuoka Prefecture):
- Approximately 20 minutes by car from Yugawara Hot Spring
- Larger-scale hot spring resort
Hakone Hot Spring District (Kanagawa Prefecture):
- Approximately 40 minutes by car from Yugawara Hot Spring
- Diverse spring qualities and tourist facilities
Annual Events at Yugawara Hot Spring
Throughout the year, Yugawara Hot Spring hosts events for each season, providing enjoyment year-round.
Major Events
Late January to Early March: Plum Festival
- Plum blossoms at Makuyama Park reach their peak
- Approximately 4,000 plum trees in full bloom
- Special lighting events available
May 23: Hot Spring Pouring Festival
- The largest event of Yugawara Hot Spring
- Traditional practice of pouring hot spring water on a portable shrine
- Characterized by passionate atmosphere
June: Firefly Festival
- Firefly viewing along the Chitose River
- Enchanting summer spectacle
- Special events held during the period
Summer Season: Beach Season
- Yugawara Beach opens
- Enjoy both hot springs and swimming
Autumn Season: Fall Foliage and Mandarin Orange Picking
- Beautiful fall foliage on hiking courses
- Mandarin orange picking experience at tourist farms
- Savor autumn flavors
Atmosphere and Convenience of Yugawara Hot Spring as a Hot Spring Resort
Atmosphere of the Hot Spring District
The hot spring district of Yugawara Hot Spring is characterized by a quiet and calm atmosphere. The promenade along the Chitose River, where you can hear the murmur of the stream, is a healing space that makes you forget the hustle and bustle of the city.
Characteristics of the Hot Spring District:
- Setting surrounded by nature
- Environment where you can feel the scent of the forest
- Quiet and calm atmosphere
- Harmony of historic buildings and modern facilities
High Convenience
Excellent Access from the Tokyo Metropolitan Area:
- 60 minutes from Yokohama
- 90 minutes from Tokyo
- Close enough to enjoy in a day trip
Comprehensive Facilities:
- Abundant day-use hot spring facilities
- Diverse accommodation options
- Good access to tourist attractions
- Well-developed restaurants and souvenir shops
Transportation Convenience:
- Frequent bus service from the station to the hot spring district
- Shuttle service available at most accommodations
- Good access by car
Suggestions for Enjoying Yugawara Hot Spring
Day-Trip Plan
Morning:
- Arrive at Yugawara Station
- Experience foot baths at Doppo’s Hot Spring
- Stroll through the hot spring district
Afternoon:
- Bathe at a day-use hot spring facility
- Local gourmet lunch
- Shop for souvenirs
- Head home
1 Night, 2 Days Plan
Day 1:
- Arrive in the afternoon
- Check in
- Relax in the hot spring
- Dinner (kaiseki cuisine)
- Evening stroll through the hot spring district
Day 2:
- Early morning bath
- Breakfast
- Visit nearby attractions (Makuyama Park, hiking, etc.)
- Lunch
- Head home
Recommended Plans by Season
Spring (Plum Blossoms Season):
- Enjoy the Plum Festival
- Savor spring nature with hiking
- Heal fatigue with hot springs
Summer:
- Enjoy both beach swimming and hot springs
- Firefly viewing (June)
- Hiking in cool mountainous areas
Autumn:
- Enjoy autumn foliage
- Experience mandarin orange picking
- Savor autumn flavors and hot springs
Winter:
- Indulge thoroughly in hot springs
- Enjoy winter seafood
- Relax in the quiet hot spring district
Overall Satisfaction and Review Trends of Yugawara Hot Spring
Yugawara Hot Spring receives high ratings from many visitors.
High-Rating Points
Spring Quality:
- Gentle and kind to skin
- High heat-retention effect
- Non-irritating and allows for long soaking
Access:
- Close to the Tokyo metropolitan area
- Enjoyable even on day trips
- Convenient transportation
Atmosphere:
- Quiet and calm
- Rich in nature
- Historic feel
Facilities:
- Abundant day-use hot springs
- Diverse accommodation options
- Good service
Visitor Feedback
Many visitors feel “I want to come again,” and Yugawara Hot Spring is characterized by having many repeat visitors. In particular, the balance of high-quality hot spring water, excellent natural environment, and good access from central Tokyo is highly appreciated.
Tips for Staying or Using Day-Use Hot Springs at Yugawara Hot Spring
Reservation Timing
High Season:
- Plum Festival period (late January to early March)
- Golden Week
- Fall foliage season (November)
- Year-end and New Year holidays
Early reservation is recommended during these periods.
Off-Season:
- Rainy season
- Weekdays in midsummer
- Weekdays in midwinter
Discounted plans are more likely during these periods.
Helpful Items to Bring
- Towel (when using day-use hot springs)
- Hiking shoes (when exploring nature)
- Camera (scenery is beautiful)
- Hot spring notebook (if visiting multiple hot springs)
Money-Saving Methods
Using Reservation Sites:
- Compare searches on Rakuten Travel, Jalan.net, JTB, and others
- Take advantage of point rewards
- Use early booking discounts
Day-Use Hot Spring Facilities:
- Some facilities offer weekday discounts
- Affordable meal and package plans
- Using discount tickets
Conclusion: The Charm of Yugawara Hot Spring
Yugawara Hot Spring in Kanagawa Prefecture is an attractive hot spring resort featuring history mentioned in the Man’yōshū, excellent spring quality known as the “Spring of Fertility,” convenient access of 60 minutes from Yokohama, and a natural setting.
Reasons Yugawara Hot Spring is Chosen:
- History and Tradition: The only hot spring north of the Kanto region mentioned in the Man’yōshū
- Excellent Spring Quality: Gentle, heat-retaining hot spring water
- Convenient Access: Close enough for day trips from the Tokyo metropolitan area
- Comprehensive Facilities: Diverse choices from day-use hot springs to luxury inns
- Abundant Tourist Resources: Seasonal events and nature throughout the year
- Calm Atmosphere: Quiet and healing hot spring district
Whether for a day trip or overnight stay, Yugawara Hot Spring offers different ways to enjoy itself. As a full-fledged hot spring resort easily accessible from the Tokyo metropolitan area, why not visit once? This historic renowned hot spring will refresh both body and mind.
The murmur of the Chitose River flowing through the hot spring district, the scent of the forest, and gentle hot spring water. Yugawara Hot Spring, a hot spring resort that Kanagawa Prefecture takes pride in, provides everything that modern people seek for healing.
