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Yubara Onsen Sunayu

HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Yubara Onsen Sunayu

Large natural open-air baths where hot springs water gushes out from the riverbed

Okayama Prefecture

Located along the Asahi River, just in front of Yubara Dam, Yubara Onsen is a unique hot spring resort in Okayama Prefecture that has been awarded the title of "Nishi no Yokozuna" (Champion of Western Japan) in the the National Hot Springs Ranking.

Symbol of this spa resort are large natural open-air baths called Sunayu, which are filled with hot spring water welling up directly from the riverbed. Sunayu literally means "sand bath," because of the sand that is moved from the bottom of the river when the hot water gushes out.

Sunayu baths are available free of charge 24 hours a day, allowing guests to enjoy hot springs at any time. The resort is also famous for its abundant supply of hot spring water. The high-quality alkaline water is gentle to the touch and is said to be effective in healing digestive system disorders and neuralgias. Since the baths are mixed gender, women are allowed to wear special bathing clothes, which are available for rent for a fee.

Ⓒ Okayama Prefecture | Yuzu bath at Sunayu on the winter solstice

Enjoy a blissful moment immersed in beautiful nature. There are three types of onsen pools with different temperatures: Bijin-no-Yu (Beauty Bath), Kodakara-no-Yu (Fertility Bath), and Choju-no-Yu (Long-life Bath). If you close your eyes, you will be surrounded by soothing natural sounds, such as the murmuring of the river, the singing of birds, and the sound of trees rustling in the wind. Wouldn't you like to spend a relaxing time and experience a natural “Sunayu?”