Glamping Thermae Yu Namegawa

The sauna was the reason I went, and it felt authentic. I also liked that the cold bath uses natural hot spring water, and there are plenty of loungers to relax in. Still, the place seems a bit neglected. Maybe maintenance has slipped, or perhaps they reopened the old bathing facility in the same spot with only minimal repairs. The low admission price may be part of the appeal, but I’d gladly pay another 300 yen if they took better care of the facility. It feels like a real shame.

The outdoor relaxation area is one of the best parts, easily among the best in Saitama. I enjoyed it so much that I wanted to keep doing sauna rounds just to spend more time outside. The baths are deep enough to soak up to your shoulders, and the simple layout is well thought out. The sauna is also simple and quite hot, so I preferred short, focused sessions. There are buckets by the cold plunge for pouring water over your head. Since it’s surrounded by nature, you may need to put up with insects depending on the season, but I’d recommend giving it a try. I visited in the evening, and after bathing I wanted a light meal, but the restaurant was closed on weekdays. I understand there may be reasons, though it would be nice to have an affordable option like a food vending machine. I was still very satisfied and think I’ll stay overnight next time.

There’s a small game center and karaoke, which makes it fun for families and bigger groups. I also met the owner recently and found him thoughtful, warm, and lovely. The part-time staff seem to be mostly students. Their service is average, but they do always greet you, which leaves a good impression. The rooms are clean and attractive, as you’d expect from a new facility. The saunas are fantastic, including the women’s sauna, which gets properly hot without the usual male chauvinism you often find in saunas. The steam sauna smells great too, just what I’d expect from Thermae-Yu. I haven’t tried the meals, but there’s a large supermarket within walking distance with everything you need. The bath water could be hotter. There isn’t much around, so it doesn’t really feel like you’re in nature, haha. Still, the reasonable glamping price, facilities, and convenience keep me coming back.

Seasonal events are one of the things that make this glamping spot feel different each visit. There have been bonfire experiences and autumn “Sayama Tea Loyly” events, summer discounts around Obon, and, in winter, the oyster shack “Kaki Taisho” alongside discounts on dome tent stays. These events and plans may be limited, so it’s a good idea to check the official website and book early. Glamping & Thermae Yu Higashimatsuyama Namekawa in Namegawa Town, Saitama Prefecture, pairs nature-surrounded stays in dome tents with private decks for outdoor meals and stargazing. It’s next to thermae baths with hot springs, saunas, and bedrock baths, and many plans include unlimited use of those facilities. Families, couples, and groups can enjoy the mix of forest time, bathing, and food. They’ve also been adding family-friendly options, including a kids’ park and an à la carte restaurant. It’s a relaxing way to get away, and one of Saitama Prefecture’s leading glamping spots.