Kotori no Yu Public Bath
Unfussy, rustic onsen with stunning outdoor thermal pools, especially magical surrounded by snow. A truly authentic Japanese hot spring experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Snowy serenity
Kotori no Yu Public Bath
Best Time
Snowy serenity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Unfussy, rustic onsen with stunning outdoor thermal pools, especially magical surrounded by snow. A truly authentic Japanese hot spring experience.
"The best 600 Yen I spent in Japan. The view was amazing. It was snowing."
Bring Your Own Towel
Save money by bringing your own towel; otherwise, you'll need to purchase one. :towel:
Vending Machine Tickets
Easily purchase your admission using the ticket vending machine. 🎟️
Quick Facts
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Outdoor Thermal Pools
Experience the magic of soaking in natural hot springs, especially stunning surrounded by snow.
Indoor Bath
A hotter indoor pool offers a different, intense thermal experience.
Scenic Views
Enjoy breathtaking natural scenery while you relax and rejuvenate.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Rustic Charm
Ticketing & Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Own Towel
Save money by bringing your own towel; otherwise, you'll need to purchase one. :towel:
Vending Machine Tickets
Easily purchase your admission using the ticket vending machine. 🎟️
Wash Before Soaking
Always wash thoroughly before entering the hot springs for hygiene. 🧼
Indoor Pool is Hotter
The indoor bath is significantly hotter than the outdoor pools. 🔥
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Own Towel
Save money by bringing your own towel; otherwise, you'll need to purchase one. :towel:
Vending Machine Tickets
Easily purchase your admission using the ticket vending machine. 🎟️
Wash Before Soaking
Always wash thoroughly before entering the hot springs for hygiene. 🧼
Indoor Pool is Hotter
The indoor bath is significantly hotter than the outdoor pools. 🔥
Snowy Season Magic
The outdoor pools are especially beautiful and relaxing when surrounded by snow. :snowflake:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kotori no Yu is praised for its incredibly scenic outdoor hot springs, especially beautiful in winter snow, and its affordable entry fee. While the facilities are basic and showers are simple, the authentic, rustic charm and the therapeutic quality of the natural thermal waters make it a highly recommended and relaxing experience for many.
"Reasonably priced and Very nice outdoor hot spring but showers are very basic, with small changing areas. ¥600 entry price.
especially during winter surrounded by snow the hot spring is beautiful.
There are also available pudding at the entrance.
You buy the ticket at a vending machine.
You have to bring your own tower if not need to buy.
Be aware to always bath before getting in the hot spring.
The bath inside feels a LOT hotter than the one outside."
Clara BODIN- Official
"If you are in Zao onsen for hot springs then this one will be the most interesting. Parking is large area , ¥600/ person and you are in Heaven. Just one word for this Genshicho Roten no yu , the Best of all.
We have been traveling and took as many Onsen one as we can on the road. This one is just the best of all."
Y. Aji Yamada
"The best 600 Yen I spent in Japan.
It was Friday afternoon, no waiting.
The view was amazing. It was snowing.
The indoor pool was ideally hot. The first outdoor pool was lukewarm but the second outdoor pool (the bigger one) was warm enough. If you want it warmer just stay near the water sources."
Wiryo Hartoyo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kotori no Yu is located in Zao Onsen. While specific public transport details are scarce, many visitors arrive by car, as there is a large parking area available. Some visitors have mentioned being dropped off and walking down, suggesting it's accessible with good snow boots in winter.
Yes, there is a large parking area available for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry price is ¥600 per person, which many visitors consider to be excellent value for the experience.
Tickets are purchased at a vending machine located at the entrance of the public bath.
It is recommended to bring your own towel, as you will need to purchase one if you don't have your own.
Yes, small 100 yen paid lockers are available for securing your valuables.
Specific opening hours are not detailed in the provided information, but visitors have noted it's enjoyable on Friday afternoons with no waiting. It's best to check locally or assume standard onsen operating hours.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The indoor bath is noted to be significantly hotter than the outdoor pools. The outdoor pools offer a more relaxed temperature, with the larger one being warm enough for extended soaks.
Absolutely! Visitors describe the outdoor hot spring as beautiful, especially during winter when surrounded by snow. It's a highly recommended experience.
The shower facilities are described as very basic, with small changing areas. The focus is on the natural bathing experience rather than luxury amenities.
Yes, they offer available pudding at the entrance, and there are also lots of drinks and a couple of snacks/souvenirs for sale.
The atmosphere is unfussy and rustic, offering a traditional onsen experience. Visitors describe it as a wonderful place for rest and cleaning, leading to Zen-level comfort with a healthy smell from nature.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit