Yamagata Onsen Ichiryu Yamagata City
Experience the therapeutic power of highly acidic, sulphuric spring water in a serene outdoor onsen nestled in a peaceful forest.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See the snow monsters!
Yamagata Onsen Ichiryu Yamagata City
Best Time
See the snow monsters!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the therapeutic power of highly acidic, sulphuric spring water in a serene outdoor onsen nestled in a peaceful forest.
"Best outdoor onsen I have ever tried. Photos not allowed. Highly acidic ph1.9 sulphuric spring water is really relaxing."
Bring Your Own Towel
Towel rental or purchase is available, but bringing your own saves hassle.
Locker Coin Ready
Have a 100 yen coin handy for the locker.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Acidic Sulphuric Spring Pools
Outdoor bathing area
Immerse yourself in highly acidic, sulphuric spring water in a serene forest setting. Unmatched relaxation awaits.
Rustic Outdoor Onsen Experience
Bathing facilities
Enjoy a truly authentic onsen experience with natural, unadulterated hot springs amidst peaceful nature.
Zao's Snow Monsters
Zao Onsen Ski Resort
Witness the surreal 'snow monsters' (juhyo) – fir trees coated in ice and snow, creating an otherworldly landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Acidic Waters
Locker Fees & Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Own Towel
Towel rental or purchase is available, but bringing your own saves hassle. +1
Locker Coin Ready
Have a 100 yen coin handy for the locker. +1
Respectful Bathing
Be mindful of others and local customs. No showers available. +1
Tattoo Friendly
This onsen is tattoo-friendly, a rarity in Japan.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Own Towel
Towel rental or purchase is available, but bringing your own saves hassle. +1
Locker Coin Ready
Have a 100 yen coin handy for the locker. +1
Respectful Bathing
Be mindful of others and local customs. No showers available. +1
Tattoo Friendly
This onsen is tattoo-friendly, a rarity in Japan.
Uphill Walk
A short, rewarding uphill hike from the bus station.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Yamagata Onsen Ichiryu for its unique, highly acidic sulphuric waters and the incredibly relaxing outdoor bathing experience set in a peaceful forest. The rustic charm and tattoo-friendly policy are also highlighted as positives. However, the lack of showers and the need to bring your own towel are common points of consideration.
"Really nice bath. Be aware that you need to pay for the locker and to bring or buy a towel.
Water is very acidic"
Régis Caspar
"A wonderful setting with really warm water across two pools (for the males) and separate facilities for females. The temperature varied between the two pools. The staff were friendly. The families are basic. Unfortunately, to go to the toilet, one has to exit the baths into the car park. No clothing was worn in the bathhouse."
Sanjay Patel
"Wonderful Onsen, 800¥/adult, tattoo friendly, take 1 towel and a coin of 100 for the locker. Not everything translated, just be respectful and you’ll get a great experience there. No shower."
Rose Bonbon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The onsen is located a short, uphill hike from the nearest bus station. While specific bus routes aren't detailed in social media, it's a common destination within the Zao Onsen area.
While described as a 'little hike uphill from the bus station,' it's generally considered worth the effort for the amazing outdoor baths.
Yes, public transport is available to the nearest bus station, from which you can walk to the onsen.
Zao Onsen is accessible via bus from Yamagata City. Many visitors combine it with skiing or exploring the 'snow monsters.' +1
The Zao Onsen Ski Resort is a major attraction, famous for its 'snow monsters' during winter. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is approximately 800 JPY per adult. Be prepared for additional small fees for lockers and towels.
Advance booking is generally not required for this rustic onsen. You can pay upon arrival.
Specific opening hours are not widely advertised, but it's best visited during daylight hours, especially if hiking is involved.
Yes, this onsen is tattoo-friendly, which is a significant advantage for many travelers.
The primary restriction is the need to be respectful of the onsen's rustic nature and other bathers. No showers are available. +1
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The water is highly acidic (pH 1.9) and sulphuric, known for its relaxing properties. It's a unique bathing experience.
Yes, there are separate facilities for males and females, with varying temperatures in the pools.
No, there are no shower facilities available at this rustic onsen. You will not be able to rinse off after your bath. +1
Photos are not allowed within the bathing areas to ensure privacy and respect.
Bring your own towel, a 100 yen coin for the locker, and be prepared for the acidic water. +2
📸 📸 Photography
The 'snow monsters' at Zao Onsen Ski Resort are a prime photography subject in winter. +2
No, photography is prohibited within the bathing areas of Yamagata Onsen Ichiryu to maintain privacy.
Ginzan Onsen is frequently featured for its picturesque, nostalgic streets, especially when covered in snow. 
Yes, the snow monsters are a major draw for photographers during the winter season. +2
For capturing the snow monsters, a camera with good low-light performance and weather sealing would be beneficial.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+4 Remember that photography is prohibited within the bathing areas of Yamagata Onsen Ichiryu itself. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Zao's Snow Monsters
To experience the juhyo, visitors typically take a ropeway up Mount Zao. The higher you go, the more dramatic the formations become.
Pro-tip: Dress warmly in layers, as temperatures on the mountain can be extremely cold. Consider bringing hand warmers and wearing waterproof gear. The views are breathtaking, offering a unique photographic opportunity unlike any other in Japan.
Experiencing Ginzan Onsen's Nostalgic Charm
Its picturesque streets are lined with traditional wooden ryokans, gas lamps, and a charming river, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere, especially when dusted with snow. +2Many visitors are drawn to Ginzan Onsen for its unique ambiance and the opportunity to experience a traditional Japanese onsen town. While some may only visit for a day trip, staying overnight in one of the ryokans offers a more immersive experience, allowing you to enjoy the town's tranquility after the day-trippers depart.
The town is particularly enchanting in the evening when the gas lamps are lit, casting a warm glow on the snow-covered streets. +1Key attractions include strolling along the river, visiting the public bathhouses, and enjoying the local cuisine. The town's beauty is celebrated in all seasons, with summer offering lush greenery and winter providing a magical snowy landscape.
It's a popular spot for photographers and those seeking a peaceful escape. The Unique Properties of Yamagata Onsen Ichiryu
Unlike many modern onsen facilities, Ichiryu maintains a rustic charm with its outdoor pools set amidst peaceful forest surroundings.
Important considerations for visitors include bringing their own towel and a 100 yen coin for the locker.
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