Introduction
Before I even arrived in Yugawara Onsen, I had this quiet feeling that the place would be special for me—almost like a destination waiting patiently for my arrival. When I stepped off the train, I instantly understood why so many travellers describe Yugawara as a gentle escape from the noise of modern life. The cool mountain air carried the faint scent of mineral steam and cedarwood, and the town felt wrapped in a soft silence that immediately calmed my mind. I was here not just to explore, but to feel, to breathe, and to be part of a slower rhythm. This trip felt personal, as though I was reconnecting with a part of myself.
A Town Shaped by Ancient Hot Spring Culture
Yugawara Onsen is one of Japan’s oldest hot spring towns, with roots stretching back more than a thousand years. Even before I entered my first bathhouse, I could sense how deeply this tradition runs in the local culture. Wooden inns with lantern-lit entrances, narrow lanes lined with steam rising from natural vents, and old stories preserved in local murals—all of it reflects a history built around healing and community. The town doesn’t try to impress with modern attractions; instead, it invites you into its timeless culture. I felt like I was stepping into a living memory, shaped by countless travelers who sought rest here long before me.
Arrival in Yugawara: A Welcome I’ll Never Forget
My first moments in the town set the tone for the entire trip. A kind station attendant helped me find the right bus, even walking with me to the correct platform. A small shop owner waved as I passed by, offering a warm greeting. And when I reached my ryokan, the staff bowed deeply, welcomed me by name, and treated me as though I was returning home rather than arriving for the first time. That genuine hospitality stayed with me throughout the trip. Yugawara is not a place where you feel like a tourist. People acknowledge you, speak to you, and make sure you feel comfortable. Their friendliness quickly became one of my favorite parts of the journey.
My Ryokan Experience: Comfort, Warmth, and True Japanese Living
I chose a ryokan overlooking the Chitose River, and the moment I entered my room I felt wrapped in peace. The scent of freshly laid tatami, the soft glow through shoji screens, and the quiet hum of nature outside created the perfect atmosphere. My private onsen bath sat on a wooden deck facing the river, and soaking in that hot mineral water felt like washing away months of stress. After relaxing, I enjoyed a beautifully arranged kaiseki dinner—seasonal fish, mountain vegetables, delicate broths, handmade tofu, and subtle flavors that felt crafted with intention and love. Staying in a ryokan is not just accommodation; it is an experience of Japanese hospitality at its purest.
Public Onsen Baths: Connecting with the Heart of the Town
Although my ryokan had a private bath, I visited several public onsens because I wanted to immerse myself in the local way of life. Each bath had its own character—some indoor baths were made of smooth hinoki wood, filling the space with a calming aroma, while outdoor baths surrounded by rocks gave me the refreshing contrast of cool mountain air against warm water. Locals spoke softly to one another, and even though I didn’t understand everything, their gentle smiles made me feel included. Sharing a hot spring with the people who live here gave me a sense of belonging, as if I had stepped into their daily culture rather than simply visiting as an outsider.
Fudo Falls: A Natural Sanctuary of Peace
The walk to Fudo Falls was like entering a hidden forest temple. The path was lined with moss, stones, and tall cedar trees that filtered the sunlight into soft, shifting patterns. As I approached the waterfall, the sound of rushing water grew stronger until it finally opened into a breathtaking scene—a tall, elegant cascade flowing into a clear pool surrounded by greenery. The air felt cooler, almost sacred, and many visitors stood quietly, absorbing the peaceful energy of the place. I stayed longer than I expected, letting the sound of the falls silence everything in my mind. It was one of the most meditative moments of my trip.
Makuyama Park: A Landscape Painted with Blossoms
My visit to Makuyama Park during plum blossom season was unforgettable. The rolling hills were completely blanketed in red, pink, and white petals, creating a dreamlike landscape that felt almost unreal. Families picnicked beneath the trees, photographers moved carefully along the pathways, and the air was filled with a sweet floral scent. I hiked up to a small hill overlooking the valley, where the entire park stretched out like a sea of color. Standing there, watching the blossoms dance in the breeze, I felt a deep gratitude for being able to witness this beauty. It was one of those moments that stays with you long after the journey ends.
Hiking the Mountains: Breathing with Nature
Yugawara is surrounded by beautiful hiking trails that offer views of forests, rivers, and mountains. I chose a moderate trail that climbed gradually through dense woods and eventually opened into panoramic viewpoints overlooking the valley. With every step, the sounds of the town faded until all I could hear was the whisper of leaves and the steady rhythm of my breathing. The hike gave me time to reflect, appreciate my surroundings, and truly disconnect from the fast pace of daily life. Reaching the viewpoint felt like a reward—not just for the hike, but for giving myself the time to slow down and reconnect with nature.
Yugawara Art Museum: A Quiet Space of Creativity
The Yugawara Art Museum surprised me with its charm. Inside were collections ranging from traditional Japanese paintings to modern works inspired by the region’s landscapes. Each piece seemed to capture some aspect of Yugawara’s peaceful character—the mountains, the blossoms, the steaming baths, or the play of light on water. The museum’s garden was equally beautiful, designed with careful attention to balance and simplicity. I sat by the small pond for a while, enjoying the stillness. In a place like Yugawara, art feels like a natural extension of the environment.
Kogome-no-Yu: An Onsen Embraced by Nature
Among all the public baths I visited, Kogome-no-Yu stood out the most. Its outdoor pools are surrounded by natural stone, foliage, and soft sunlight filtering through the trees. I visited in the evening when the sky turned golden and warm steam drifted upward like gentle clouds. Locals soaked quietly around me, enjoying the moment without rush or noise. That experience felt like pure harmony—my body warmed by the water, my mind quiet, and the world around me softened into complete tranquility.
Exploring the Riverside Streets
One of my favorite activities was simply walking along the river in the evening. Lanterns lit the narrow streets, casting warm reflections on the water. Small cafés served tea and local snacks, while traditional craft shops displayed handmade pottery, wood carvings, and delicate ceramics. A friendly vendor insisted I try her freshly made dango, and her laughter when I said it was delicious made the moment even sweeter. These simple interactions reminded me that travel is not only about attractions—it’s about people, conversations, and memories created through kindness.
Hinokihorikiri Shrine: A Glimpse into Spiritual Japan
Hidden among tall trees, Hinokihorikiri Shrine is a peaceful space where locals come to pray, reflect, and seek blessings. I walked slowly through its torii gate, rang the bell, and offered a quiet prayer of gratitude. The shrine’s stillness contrasted beautifully with the natural surroundings, creating a space that felt both spiritual and grounding. Being there allowed me to appreciate Japan’s deep connection between nature and belief.
Local Cuisine: A Flavorful Journey Through Tradition
Yugawara’s food scene is simple but deeply satisfying. I tried seafood caught fresh that morning, bowls of perfectly seasoned udon, and sweet treats made with local ingredients. One restaurant owner explained the history behind each dish, and even without perfect language understanding, her passion was clear. Every meal felt like sharing a story—one told through flavors passed down over generations.
The Kindness of the People
If there is one thing that defined my trip, it was the kindness of the people. From innkeepers who asked about my day to locals who guided me with hand gestures and warm smiles, everyone made me feel welcome. Their hospitality wasn’t forced—it was natural, genuine, and heartfelt. I felt connected to the community in a way I hadn’t expected, and it made my entire visit even more meaningful.
Final Thoughts: Why I Will Return
As I left Yugawara Onsen, I felt a gentle sadness, the kind you feel when leaving a place that touched your heart. This town offers more than hot springs and nature; it offers peace, connection, and a reminder of how soft life can feel when we allow ourselves to slow down. I know I will return someday—not just to soak in the beautiful onsens, but to experience again the warmth of the people and the quiet magic that makes Yugawara Onsen unforgettable.
