Shitanyu Lake Kinrin Bath
A rustic, traditional mixed-gender public onsen offering a serene soak amidst nature by Shitanyu Lake.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Shitanyu Lake Kinrin Bath
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rustic, traditional mixed-gender public onsen offering a serene soak amidst nature by Shitanyu Lake.
"Traditional Japan before encroaching Western norms. Pay 300 yen in the honesty box, take your shoes off and step back in time."
Bring Your Own Towel! :towel:
Towels are not provided. Make sure to bring your own to enjoy the onsen facilities.
Honesty Box Payment 💴
Payment is via an honesty box. The fee is typically 300 yen.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.2 · 293 reviews
Type
Public Bath
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mixed-Gender Outdoor Bath
Outdoor bathing area
Immerse yourself in nature with a relaxing soak in the outdoor pool, surrounded by greenery.
Traditional Indoor Baths
Indoor bathing area
Experience authentic Japanese bathing culture in the serene indoor pools, perfect for a tranquil soak.
Scenic Lake Views
Near Shitanyu Lake
Enjoy the picturesque views of Shitanyu Lake, adding a touch of natural beauty to your onsen visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Rustic Charm
Timing is Key for Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Own Towel! :towel:
Towels are not provided. Make sure to bring your own to enjoy the onsen facilities.
Honesty Box Payment 💴
Payment is via an honesty box. The fee is typically 300 yen.
No Changing Rooms :woman_shrugging:
Be prepared for a rustic experience; there are no dedicated changing rooms. Use the racks provided.
Wash Before Entering 🧼
It's customary to wash yourself thoroughly at the side before entering the main baths.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Own Towel! :towel:
Towels are not provided. Make sure to bring your own to enjoy the onsen facilities.
Honesty Box Payment 💴
Payment is via an honesty box. The fee is typically 300 yen.
No Changing Rooms :woman_shrugging:
Be prepared for a rustic experience; there are no dedicated changing rooms. Use the racks provided.
Wash Before Entering 🧼
It's customary to wash yourself thoroughly at the side before entering the main baths.
Translate Signage :iphone:
Most signs are in Japanese. Use Google Lens or similar apps to translate for guidance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Shitanyu Lake Kinrin Bath for its authentic, traditional Japanese onsen experience, highlighting the natural setting and affordable entry fee. Some note the rustic facilities, including the lack of changing rooms and the mixed-gender baths, which may not suit everyone. The honesty box payment system is a unique aspect that many appreciate.
"Traditional Japan before encroaching Western norms. Pay 300 yen in the honesty box, take your shoes off and step back in time. No change room so put your belongings and clothes in the racks around the baths - you can always see them. Pour some water over yourself to the side to wash before you get in. Water not too hot. No toilets so go across the road first. You can see the hordes of Korean and Chinese bus groups thru the hedges but they are oblivious to you. Went with my wife and she did not want to leave. Another couple there and 3 guys but everyone kept to themselves. I would think this fine for a confident solo female as the public is very nearby and in earshot. Rustic but not run down or dirty. Bring your own towels. Wonderful experience if you are open minded and relaxed."
Justin Dabner
"Traditional public mixed onsen - relaxing experience
Most of the signage is in Japanese. After using Google lens to translate we realized we can just pay 300yen and use the facilities.
Indoor and outdoor pools, the outdoor is really pleasant to be in nature although there are some gaps in the bushes so be comfortable you might be seen
Free parking available"
Aastha Arora
"This is a public onsen but you have to prepare your own towel first. The fee is 200 yen."
Jason Suen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shitanyu Lake Kinrin Bath is accessible from Yufuin Station. It's about a 45-minute drive from the station, and there is free parking available nearby.
Some visitors have reported difficulty finding the entrance, especially if signage is unclear. Look for the rustic building near the lake.
While the closest major station is Yufuin, direct public transport to the onsen itself might be limited. Renting a car is a popular option for exploring the area.
Yes, free parking is available for visitors to the onsen.
Many visitors find renting a car convenient for exploring Yufuin and its surroundings, including the onsen.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically 300 yen, paid via an honesty box system.
No advance booking is usually required for this public onsen. You pay upon arrival.
Opening hours can vary, and there have been instances of temporary closures due to equipment faults. It's advisable to check locally or look for recent visitor updates.
There are no strict time limits mentioned, but it's a public facility, so be mindful of other visitors.
Yes, while signage is in Japanese, the payment system is straightforward, and many visitors manage with translation apps.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
Expect a rustic experience with indoor and outdoor baths. There are no changing rooms, so use the provided racks for your clothes and belongings.
Yes, it is a traditional mixed-gender public onsen. Be comfortable with this setup.
The water is generally described as not too hot, making it pleasant for a relaxing soak.
There are no toilets on-site. Visitors are advised to use facilities across the road before entering the onsen.
Some reviews suggest it's fine for confident solo females due to the public nature and nearby presence, but be aware of the mixed-gender setup.
📸 📸 Photography
While photos of the lake and surroundings are generally fine, be respectful of other bathers' privacy within the onsen area.
The outdoor bathing area offers beautiful natural scenery. The lake itself provides picturesque views, especially during sunrise.
Be mindful of the public nature of the onsen and avoid photographing other individuals without their consent.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities or a compact camera would be suitable for capturing the scenic beauty.
If you are dining at a nearby establishment, general food photography is usually acceptable, but always check with the restaurant. +1
Social
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