Higashitaga No Yu

The food was good, and the linen was clean. The facilities are old, but they’re well maintained and clean. There’s just a small indoor bath, with neutral sulfur hot spring water that isn’t circulated. It’s creamy white and smells of sulfur, organic solvent, and a little sewage. There’s no shower or locker, and it probably fits two people at most. Day visits have been discontinued due to covid-19.

The owner was so hospitable and showed me around Naruko. I really enjoyed soaking away my tiredness in the lovely white, mineral-rich onsen. It’s a cosy little inn, and I had a great stay. Hope to visit again in autumn ^_^

I’d heard about the hot spring the day before from a woman I met on the "Yumeguri Kairo" (Road Tour of Hot Springs), so I stopped by for a quick soak. It lived up to what she’d said. The water is wonderfully milky, almost like Calpis dissolved in it, and has a strong gas smell. It’s a natural spring, with no added water or heating. The smooth, slightly hot water feels so enticing you could stay in it forever. A friend who bathed with me had suffered from severe atopic dermatitis for a long time. After regularly visiting this bath and ordering hot water to apply to her skin, her condition improved dramatically. When I looked into it, I found quite a few reviews describing similar experiences. The proprietress told us that, among Naruko’s different spring types, Higashi Tago no Yu is unusual for containing earthy baking soda. Even the station tourist information desk quietly recommended it. It’s a little way from Naruko Station, but only about a 10-minute walk. Follow the street in front of the station, go under the train tracks, turn left at the hairpin bend, then take the narrow road down to the national highway. I’m sure you’ll find a hot spring worth the trip. If you have a skin condition or atopic dermatitis, it may be worth trying.

The milky water is relaxing, and afterward my skin feels silky smooth, almost as if it’s covered in powder. It makes me feel 30 years younger. This is the best Naruko Onsen for women! You can visit for the day, but we recommend staying overnight so you can soak several times and enjoy that soft, silky skin. Late-night bathing is available too. I’ve tried other Naruko Onsen baths, and this is one of the best. My wife’s skin looks like she’s in her 20s. I was really surprised! 🙀 lol