Shari Onsen Yumotokan

A lovely, super clean guesthouse where foreigners are welcome. The hosts are very friendly, and the private onsens are wonderful. Highly recommended!

This is my second stay in the main building, after coming last year. It’s great value, with spacious, well-cleaned rooms and unlimited access to the free-flowing black moor spring water, day and night. The building has a Showa-era feel, but the guest rooms and bath changing areas have been renovated. The first bath is right in front of my room. There’s a two-door fridge with a freezer in the room. No bath or toilet there, but two toilets are available in the changing room, so I didn’t find that inconvenient. The hot water runs continuously and is very clean. It leaves my skin feeling smooth, too. In the women’s first bath, tall shower screens let you stand and shower without bothering the people nearby. Payment is in cash at check-in. To check out, just put your key in the locker at the front desk. Major travel sites sometimes have good prices, but I think booking directly with the inn can be a better deal. I’d recommend this price for a free-flowing hot spring.

After a motorcycle ride left me cold, I looked for a nearby public bath and found this great natural hot spring. A day visit costs only 400 yen, and towels are available to rent. The building is old, but it’s clean and comfortable. I’m so glad I got to enjoy such a lovely hot spring for that price. I’ll definitely come again.

I spent two nights at Hiraga 2, which is separate from the main building. It was extremely hot outside, and the spot air conditioner was a big help. I skipped the main building’s bath because of the heat, but my room had its own free-flowing hot spring. I kept it lukewarm and enjoyed soaking in it. The facilities are a little old, so this may not suit everyone. Still, I could cook my own meals and had a comfortable stay. Next time I’d like to come in the colder months and enjoy the hot springs.