Yugawara 湯河原エリア

The southernmost town in Kanagawa Prefecture , Yugawara is an onsen resort offering breathtaking views of Sagami Bay. The place is famous for appearing in the Manyoshu, Japan's oldest collection of poetry, which dates back to around 759.

The lush nature and mild climate of Yugawara have continued to inspire some of Japan's most famous authors, including Soseki Natsume and Ryunosuke Akutagawa.

Yugawara is accessible by train from Tokyo.

Take the JR Tokaido Line from Tokyo Station to Yugawara Station (approximately one hour and 45 minutes).

Yugawara is famous for having historical sites dating back to the Kamakura period in the 13th century. One such site is Joganji, the temple where members of the Doi clan, who ruled over Yugawara during the Kamakura Period, are buried.

The temple is also home to an 900-year-old juniper tree that is registered as a Natural Treasure.