Yugashima Onsen - a body of water with a mountain in the background
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Yugashima Onsen

4.6
·491k reviews·Izu, Japan

Yugashima Onsen: A tranquil hot spring retreat in Izu's mountains, offering serene onsen, lush hiking, and magical firefly displays.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Fireflies light up the night

CrowdMedium
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Yugashima Onsen - a body of water with a mountain in the background

Yugashima Onsen

Best Time

Summer evenings

Fireflies light up the night

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Yugashima Onsen: A tranquil hot spring retreat in Izu's mountains, offering serene onsen, lush hiking, and magical firefly displays.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Immerse yourself in nature's tranquility with rejuvenating onsen and stunning mountain hikes."

Vertical photo
TIP

♨️ Book Ryokan with Private Onsen

For ultimate relaxation, secure a ryokan with private onsen access. It's worth the splurge!

🥾 Wear Comfortable Hiking Shoes

Explore the beautiful Amagi trails with sturdy footwear. You'll want to wander!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tatsuta Ryokan Onsen

Tatsuta Ryokan Onsen

Yugashima Onsen Village

Immerse yourself in a giant rock onsen surrounded by nature's tranquility. A truly rejuvenating experience.

Amagi Hiking Trails

Amagi Hiking Trails

Mountainous areas around Yugashima

Trek through serene forests, listen to river streams, and discover hidden waterfalls. Perfect for nature lovers.

Firefly Watching

Firefly Watching

Near Yugashima Onsen

Experience the magical glow of fireflies illuminating the night. A unique natural spectacle.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Tranquil Onsen Experience

Yugashima Onsen offers a serene escape with its natural hot springs. Plan for relaxation and consider booking accommodations with private onsen access for ultimate privacy. Many ryokans offer traditional Japanese dining experiences.

Explore Izu's Natural Beauty

Beyond the onsen, Yugashima is a gateway to Izu's stunning landscapes. Hiking trails abound, offering opportunities to discover waterfalls and lush forests. Check bus schedules for easy access to nearby attractions.

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Fireflies light up the night
Crowd
Medium
When
Spring mornings
Why
Lush greenery and clear air
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Izu Yoga Retreat: Days 3-5 in Yugashima On Day 3, we ventured into the mountain side of the Izu Peninsula, enjoying the peaceful sound of the river stream as we practiced yoga, followed by soaking in a giant rock onsen. We spent our days hiking through the forest and our nights watching fireflies. Yugashima offers a different side of the Izu Peninsula’s nature compared to Shimoda by the ocean. ...
saga_san_yoga
78 likes • 1.7K views

♨️ Book Ryokan with Private Onsen

For ultimate relaxation, secure a ryokan with private onsen access. It's worth the splurge! Instagram

🥾 Wear Comfortable Hiking Shoes

Explore the beautiful Amagi trails with sturdy footwear. You'll want to wander! Reddit

📍Izu peninsula, Shizuoka Prefecture 📍Kawazu seven waterfalls 📍Joren Falls 📍 Tatsuta Ryokan Izu (Yugashima Onsen village) 🚃 Metro/Bus stop: JR Kawazu OR JR Shuzenji then Bus C50 💰 Free entrance: Free 💰Ryokan price: between 170 & 350 euros for 2 (depending on dates and options) I live for art and nature. The first time I head the song Amagi Goe by the incredible artist Sayuri Ishikawa, I comple...
feeling.japan
574 likes • 26.4K views
reddit.com

Izu Peninsula Experiences?

🚌 Utilize Local Buses

Public buses are your best bet for getting around Izu. Plan your routes in advance. Reddit

🎶 Listen to Amagi Goe

Enhance your visit by listening to the iconic song 'Amagi Goe' inspired by the region. Instagram

reddit.com

The Road Moderately Travelled: Izu Peninsula

Tips

from all over the internet

♨️ Book Ryokan with Private Onsen

For ultimate relaxation, secure a ryokan with private onsen access. It's worth the splurge! Instagram

🥾 Wear Comfortable Hiking Shoes

Explore the beautiful Amagi trails with sturdy footwear. You'll want to wander! Reddit

🚌 Utilize Local Buses

Public buses are your best bet for getting around Izu. Plan your routes in advance. Reddit

🎶 Listen to Amagi Goe

Enhance your visit by listening to the iconic song 'Amagi Goe' inspired by the region. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the serene natural beauty and the deeply relaxing onsen experience in Yugashima. The peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to hike through lush forests are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some guests note that dining options outside of ryokans are limited, and transportation requires reliance on buses.

What People Like

Tranquil onsen experience
Beautiful hiking trails
Peaceful natural surroundings

What People Dislike

Limited dining outside ryokans
Bus-dependent transport

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Tokyo, take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen to Atami Station, then transfer to the JR Ito Line to Izukogen Station. From there, you can take a local bus (like the C50) towards Yugashima Onsen. Alternatively, you can take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen to Mishima Station and then a bus, or the JR Ito Line to Shuzenji Station and then a bus. Instagram

Local buses are the primary mode of transport for exploring Yugashima and the wider Izu Peninsula. Renting a car offers more flexibility, but be prepared for narrow mountain roads. Reddit

There are no direct train lines to Yugashima Onsen itself. You'll typically arrive at a nearby station like Shuzenji or Kawazu and then take a bus. Instagram

Yes, with some planning, it's quite accessible by public transport. The key is to utilize the bus network from major train stations in the Izu Peninsula. Reddit

The nearest major train stations are Shuzenji Station and Kawazu Station, both of which serve as hubs for bus routes heading towards Yugashima. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

It is highly recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons, as many ryokans are popular and have limited rooms. Instagram

While many visitors stay at ryokans with onsen, some facilities may offer day-use options. It's best to check with individual ryokans or local tourist information centers. TikTok

Ryokan prices can vary significantly, typically ranging from 170 to 350 euros for two people, depending on the season, room type, and included meals. Instagram

Most hiking trails in the Amagi area are natural and do not have entrance fees, allowing for free exploration of the beautiful scenery. Reddit

Yes, you can visit Yugashima Onsen for day trips to explore the area and potentially use day-use onsen facilities if available. However, an overnight stay allows for a more immersive experience. TikTok

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The Amagi mountain range offers numerous hiking trails, including those leading to waterfalls like Joren Falls. The trails are known for their peaceful forest atmosphere and river streams. TikTokInstagram

Expect lush forests, clear river streams, and beautiful mountain scenery. In the summer, you might also witness the magical sight of fireflies. TikTok

Yugashima Onsen is known for its natural beauty and onsen culture. The area is also associated with the famous song 'Amagi Goe,' adding a cultural layer to the experience. Instagram

A weekend trip is perfect for enjoying onsen relaxation, hiking through the Amagi mountains, and perhaps experiencing firefly watching if visiting in season. TikTokReddit

Yugashima Onsen offers a peaceful and safe environment, making it suitable for solo travelers seeking relaxation and nature immersion. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Ryokans in Yugashima often serve traditional Japanese multi-course meals (kaiseki) featuring local, seasonal ingredients, including fresh seafood and regional specialties. Instagram

While ryokans are the primary dining option, there may be a few local eateries in the Yugashima village area. Exploring these can offer a more casual dining experience. TikTok

Finding strictly vegetarian or vegan options might be challenging at traditional ryokans, as Japanese cuisine often includes fish and dashi. It's best to inform your ryokan in advance of any dietary restrictions. Instagram

The Izu region is known for its fresh seafood, particularly sashimi and sushi. You might also find local mountain vegetables and other regional delicacies. Instagram

Yes, it is very common for ryokan stays in Yugashima Onsen to include both dinner and breakfast as part of the package, offering a full traditional experience. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the natural landscapes, including the serene river streams, lush forests, and waterfalls like Joren Falls. The onsen baths themselves can also make for unique photos. TikTokInstagram

Photographing fireflies can be challenging due to low light conditions. Using a tripod and a camera with good low-light performance is recommended. TikTok

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric glow. TikTok

Photography inside onsen bathing areas is generally prohibited for privacy reasons. Always be respectful of other bathers and follow facility rules. TikTok

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is useful for capturing both landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can be great for forest scenes. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Yugashima Onsen offers a peaceful retreat for families looking to connect with nature. The gentle hiking trails in the Amagi mountains are suitable for children, providing opportunities for exploration and discovery. TikTok Consider booking a ryokan with family-friendly amenities or private onsen access for added convenience and privacy. The chance to see fireflies in the summer can be a particularly magical experience for younger visitors. TikTok

While dining at traditional ryokans might require some flexibility with children's palates, most establishments are accommodating. It's advisable to inform them of any dietary needs in advance. The overall serene atmosphere of Yugashima makes it a relaxing destination for families seeking a break from the usual tourist crowds. Reddit

🧘‍♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Serenity

For solo travelers yearning for peace and quiet, Yugashima Onsen is an ideal destination. The tranquil onsen baths offer a perfect setting for introspection and relaxation. TikTok The surrounding natural beauty, with its hiking trails and river streams, provides ample opportunities for mindful exploration and connection with nature. Reddit

Staying at a ryokan can offer a sense of community and safety, with many solo travelers appreciating the attentive service and traditional Japanese hospitality. It's a chance to disconnect from the digital world and immerse yourself in a calming environment. TikTok

🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers

Yugashima Onsen is a haven for nature lovers and avid hikers. The Amagi mountain range boasts a variety of trails, from leisurely walks along river streams to more challenging ascents with rewarding views. Reddit Don't miss the chance to visit iconic spots like Joren Falls and explore the lush, verdant forests that characterize the region. Instagram

Beyond hiking, the area offers opportunities for birdwatching and simply enjoying the fresh mountain air. The natural beauty is a significant draw, providing a perfect backdrop for photography and quiet contemplation. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of Yugashima Onsen

Yugashima Onsen is a charming hot spring resort nestled in the mountainous interior of the Izu Peninsula. It's renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty, offering a stark contrast to the more bustling coastal areas of Izu. The region is particularly famous for its connection to the song 'Amagi Goe,' which evokes the spirit of the area and its scenic landscapes. Visitors come here seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, and a deeper connection with nature. Instagram

The onsen waters in Yugashima are known for their purported therapeutic properties, drawing visitors looking to soothe their bodies and minds. Many accommodations are traditional Japanese inns, or ryokans, which provide an immersive cultural experience, often including kaiseki (multi-course haute cuisine) dinners and serene bathing facilities. The surrounding Amagi mountains provide a picturesque backdrop and ample opportunities for outdoor activities. TikTok

Beyond the hot springs, Yugashima offers a glimpse into a more traditional and peaceful side of Japan. The sound of river streams, the scent of the forest, and the possibility of witnessing fireflies in the summer create a truly magical environment. It's a destination that appeals to those looking to escape the everyday and find solace in nature's embrace. TikTok

Exploring the Amagi Hiking Trails

The Amagi mountain range surrounding Yugashima Onsen is a hiker's paradise, offering a network of trails that cater to various fitness levels. These paths wind through dense forests, alongside babbling river streams, and lead to picturesque waterfalls, such as the well-known Joren Falls. The trails are generally well-maintained, making them accessible for most visitors. TikTokInstagram

Hiking in Amagi provides a refreshing escape into nature. The air is crisp, and the sounds of the forest create a calming ambiance. Popular routes often involve moderate ascents and descents, with opportunities to pause and enjoy the scenic vistas. It's advisable to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water, especially during warmer months. Reddit

For those seeking more than just a casual stroll, the Amagi region offers a chance to explore the natural beauty that inspired local legends and songs. The experience is enhanced by the feeling of discovery as you venture deeper into the mountains, encountering the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit this serene part of the Izu Peninsula. TikTok

The Magic of Fireflies in Yugashima

During the summer months, Yugashima Onsen transforms into a magical spectacle with the appearance of fireflies. These bioluminescent insects illuminate the night, creating a breathtaking natural light show. The tranquil environment of Yugashima, with its minimal light pollution, provides an ideal habitat for them to thrive. TikTok

Witnessing fireflies is a unique experience that adds an extra layer of enchantment to a visit to Yugashima. Many visitors report being captivated by the gentle blinking lights that dot the darkness, creating an almost ethereal atmosphere. It's a reminder of the simple yet profound wonders of the natural world. TikTok

While photographing fireflies can be challenging, the memory of their glow is often more vivid than any picture. It's an activity best enjoyed by simply immersing yourself in the moment, listening to the sounds of the night, and marveling at this natural phenomenon. TikTok

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