Nishimera Onsen Yutato

After a full day of exploring, I thought I was going to have to sleep in my car, still dirty. Then I found this little onsen in the middle of nowhere, with its very smiley owner. The water was surprisingly soft, and there were plenty of tables and sofas where I could rest or get some work done. It saved my day.

Great views from the open-air bath at this nice hot spring.

The hot spring water is thick and creamy, and the food is delicious. There’s a family bath too, and I’d suggest booking it by phone ahead of time. I’d also like to try the newly built cottages and accommodations at the yutato. Around this time of year, Nishimera’s Mitsumata trees are a lovely sight. Sometimes the cherry blossoms near the yutato bloom at the same time, which is especially beautiful. It seems they were a little early this year, with just 10 more days to go, so I’m not sure we’ll catch both blooms together. The Mitsumata are worth seeing on their own, though. Some trees are starting to bud, which really makes it feel like spring, and I spotted a few mountain cherry blossoms too.

After hiking Mt. Ishido, I stopped in for a soak. I’d arrived in Nishimera Village the day before and spent the night at an RV park. Bathing costs 500 yen. The ticket machine has separate buttons for villagers, local residents, and outsiders (Gachi-Away 😌). Lockers cost 100 yen, but you get that money back when you unlock them 🔑 🙏 Shampoo, body wash, and hair dryers are provided, which isn’t always the case these days. The indoor Jacuzzi "bubble" bath felt about 40-42°C, while the open-air bath was around 40°C, so I could stay in for a long soak. The water felt slippery and really pleasant. I didn’t eat, but on impulse I bought a coaster with the mountain’s name on it, and had a yuzu? soft serve 😋.