Ushiobara Onsen Matsukawa

After spending time in Yoshiwa, I usually stop at a day-trip hot spring before going home. This one has a drinking spring, and the glass-enclosed waiting area feels spacious. I went in May, but the setting sun was already so strong that I was sweating after my bath. Summer must be even worse. There are very realistic stuffed animals at the front desk and in various spots, but the little pond you can see from the corridor has brightly colored artificial carp. I only visit occasionally, so I always call to check that it’s open, then drive about 20 minutes. The inn’s phone manner is especially harsh when dealing with someone they dislike, and it always leaves me feeling down. It’s the only nearby hot spring where I can relax my tired body, so I go because I need to. Since Quelle Yoshiwa closed, my options are limited to Matsukawa and Rakan Onsen. Rakan Onsen had an open-air bath, was very spacious, and reasonably priced. Next time I think I’ll stop by Muikaichi Onsen Yurara on my way home. I’m never going to Matsukawa again.

That strawberry smoothie after the bath was exquisite. I also loved looking out at the sky and greenery from the 5th-floor bath. The day trip was wonderful, especially getting to soak in a radon bath for just 700 yen. It’s unusual to find a hot spring where you can drink the water, too.

After trekking at Mominoki Forest Park in May 2026, I headed here to wash off the sweat. A stuffed Asiatic black bear greeted me, though those seem to be getting less popular these days. The baths are on the 5th floor, with plain hot water, a bubble bath and a steam bath inside, plus an open-air bath looking out over fresh greenery. I warmed up indoors, then cooled off outside with the view. It was blissful, and all for 700 yen. A really refreshing stop.

The water from the hot spring feels soft and gentle. There’s free water in front of the inn, and rice made with it comes out fluffy and absolutely delicious. Be sure to try the Yoshiwa rice served at the inn. I’d love to come back.