The Origins and History of Yudanaka Onsen
The Discovery by the Buddhist Monk Chiyu
According to local tradition, Yudanaka Onsen was discovered in the 7th century by a Buddhist monk named Chiyu. He named the hot spring “Yokarei,” a name associated with longevity and long life.
The name expresses the belief that the hot spring possessed the power to heal illness, restore the body and mind, and promote a long and healthy life.
A public bathhouse known as Oyu stands near the traditional birthplace of the hot spring and remains one of the symbolic landmarks of Yudanaka Onsen. Chiyu is also said to have established a stone statue of Miroku to the east of Oyu to protect the hot spring, reflecting the long-standing connection between hot spring culture and Buddhist faith.
From Post Town to Traditional Hot Spring Retreat
Yudanaka Onsen flourished as a post town along the Kusatsu Kaido route and also developed as a destination for toji, the traditional Japanese practice of staying at a hot spring for an extended period to rest and recuperate.
Travelers, merchants, and people seeking the restorative benefits of the hot springs gathered here, helping create a distinctive culture centered around the baths.
During the Edo period, the Sanada lords of the Matsushiro Domain were reportedly particularly fond of Yudanaka’s hot springs. According to local tradition, they even had the hot spring water brought into their castle. This story illustrates the high regard in which the waters of Yudanaka were held.
A Hot Spring Loved by Writers and Artists
The Connection with Haiku Poet Kobayashi Issa
Yudanaka Onsen has attracted numerous cultural figures throughout its long history. Among the most famous was Kobayashi Issa, one of Japan’s best-known haiku poets and a native of Shinshu.
Issa visited the area many times and left numerous haiku inspired by the hot springs, the surrounding countryside, and his encounters with local people.
His works provide a glimpse into everyday life and the atmosphere of the hot spring town during his time, making his connection with Yudanaka an important part of the area’s cultural heritage.
Five Distinct Areas of Yudanaka Onsen
Yudanaka Onsen consists of five areas: Yudanaka, Shin-Yudanaka, Hoshikawa, Honami, and Yasuda. Numerous hot spring sources are distributed throughout these areas, and the characteristics of the water can vary depending on the source.
This variety means that visitors can experience subtle differences in water temperature, texture, and aroma even within the same hot spring town. Exploring the different baths is one of the pleasures of staying in Yudanaka.
Rich Hot Spring Sources and Mineral-Rich Waters
High-Temperature Natural Hot Springs
The source temperatures at Yudanaka generally range from approximately 65°C to 93°C. The principal types of spring water include chloride springs and sulfur springs. Much of the water is clear and colorless, and its warmth can be felt deep throughout the body.
Traditional Benefits of the Hot Springs
These mineral-rich waters have traditionally been used for bathing and relaxation, with visitors seeking relief from conditions such as muscle and joint discomfort, lower back pain, sensitivity to cold, minor wounds, chronic skin problems, and general fatigue.
The warm waters are also appreciated for promoting circulation and helping the body retain warmth, contributing to the relaxing experience for which Yudanaka is known.
The Atmosphere of the Hot Spring Town
A Wide Range of Traditional Accommodations
Approximately 40 accommodations are located around Yudanaka Onsen, ranging from large modern ryokan inns to smaller, family-run establishments with a traditional atmosphere. Each property has its own character, allowing travelers to choose accommodation that suits their preferred style of trip.
Shops selling souvenirs and local specialties, as well as restaurants, line the streets of the hot spring area. Exploring the town on foot is an enjoyable way to discover local foods and products from the Shinshu region.
Kaede-no-Yu and Foot Baths
Next to Yudanaka Station is Kaede-no-Yu, a public hot spring facility where visitors can enjoy a bath during a sightseeing break or while waiting for a train.
Foot baths can also be found around the station and near temples, offering an easy way to relax tired feet while exploring the town.
Hot Spring Hopping and Oyu Public Bathhouse
Exploring Multiple Baths with a Hot Spring Pass
Visitors can use the Yumeguri Onsen Tegata hot spring pass to experience three baths selected from Kaede-no-Yu and participating ryokan inns. This is a convenient way to experience several different hot springs even during a relatively short visit.
Oyu — One of Yudanaka’s Most Famous Baths
Oyu is one of the central landmarks of Yudanaka Onsen. It has traditionally been highly regarded and was ranked as the eastern “Yokozuna,” or grand champion, alongside Dogo Onsen in western Japan in the Japan Onsen Association’s ranking of public bathhouses.
Oyu is generally reserved for local residents and guests staying at participating accommodations. On certain special occasions, such as the 26th day of the month, traditionally celebrated as “Bath Day,” it may also be open to the general public.
Nearby Attractions and Natural Beauty
Jigokudani Monkey Park
One of the most famous attractions near Yudanaka Onsen is Jigokudani Monkey Park. The park is internationally known for its Japanese macaques, which can sometimes be observed bathing in natural hot springs.
The sight of wild Japanese macaques relaxing in the warm water has become one of the region’s most recognizable winter scenes and attracts visitors from around the world.
Shiga Kogen and Four Seasons of Outdoor Activities
Shiga Kogen can be reached by bus from the Yudanaka area and offers a wide range of seasonal experiences. In spring and summer, visitors can enjoy alpine plants and hiking. Autumn brings colorful foliage, while winter transforms the area into a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding.
Yudanaka Onsen is therefore not only a destination for hot springs but also a convenient base for exploring the mountains and natural landscapes of northern Nagano.
How to Get to Yudanaka Onsen
By Public Transportation
From Tokyo, take the Shinkansen to Nagano Station, a journey of approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. From Nagano, transfer to the Nagano Electric Railway and travel for approximately 45 minutes to Yudanaka Station.
The hot spring district is within walking distance of the station, making Yudanaka particularly convenient for travelers without a car.
By Car
Yudanaka Onsen is approximately 20 minutes by car from the Shinshu-Nakano Interchange on the Joshin-Etsu Expressway. Parking facilities are available around the area, making it accessible for travelers exploring northern Nagano by car.
Why Visit Yudanaka Onsen?
Yudanaka Onsen combines more than 1,000 years of history, traditional hot spring culture, rich natural surroundings, and a variety of mineral-rich waters. Its development as a post town and traditional hot spring retreat can still be felt in the streets and historic bathhouses today.
Visitors can enjoy hot spring hopping, experience the historic Oyu bathhouse, explore the streets associated with Kobayashi Issa, and use Yudanaka as a base for visiting Jigokudani Monkey Park and Shiga Kogen.
For travelers exploring the mountains and cultural heritage of Shinshu, Yudanaka Onsen offers an opportunity to experience one of Japan’s long-established hot spring traditions in a peaceful mountain setting.