山中湖平野温泉石割の湯♨️
1 / 10

Ishiwari-no-Yu Onsen

3.8
·2k reviews·Yamanakako, Japan

Traditional onsen near Yamanakako with a rare mixed swimwear zone, featuring a fragrant hinoki cypress outdoor bath.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene soak

CrowdLow
Loading map...
山中湖平野温泉石割の湯♨️

Ishiwari-no-Yu Onsen

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene soak

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Traditional onsen near Yamanakako with a rare mixed swimwear zone, featuring a fragrant hinoki cypress outdoor bath.

3.8
(2k reviews)

"A traditional onsen that seems to be oftened by locals in the area. They have big baths and changing rooms, but not quite spacious enough to accommodate so many people."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Your Own Towel!

Save money by bringing your own towel; rentals are available but cost extra .

Check Operating Hours

Hours can vary, so confirm them beforehand to avoid disappointment .

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

3.8 · 1,888 reviews

Type

Public Bath

🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Outdoor Hinoki Cypress Bath

Outdoor Hinoki Cypress Bath

Outdoor bathing area

Immerse yourself in the soothing, hot waters of the iconic outdoor tub crafted from fragrant hinoki cypress wood.

Relaxing Garden & Lounge

Relaxing Garden & Lounge

Central garden and lounge areas

Unwind in the tranquil garden or the tatami lounge rooms after your soak, a perfect spot to decompress.

Local Market Finds

Local Market Finds

On-site market

Browse and purchase fresh local vegetables and unique souvenirs at the facility's small market.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Swimwear Policy & Tattoo Rules

While many onsen are strictly nude, Ishiwari-no-Yu Onsen is known to have mixed swimwear zones, a rarity in Japan. However, be aware that tattoos may still be an issue for entry, as experienced by one visitor.Reddit Always check current policies before your visit.

Towel & Locker Logistics

Bring your own towel to save on rental fees, though they are available on-site.Reddit Lockers are available and typically refunded, but confirm this upon arrival. Some reviews mention hair dryers requiring an extra payment, so plan accordingly.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene soak
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings (off-peak)
Why
Atmospheric lighting, local vibe
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Hot Spring Locations That Allow Male and Female (No Nudity)

I'm travelling with a close friend and we are wanting to go to the hot springs near Yamanakako. Please let us know if there are any places that allow both male and female, no nudity and don't have a tattoo policy.

Bring Your Own Towel!

Save money by bringing your own towel; rentals are available but cost extra.Reddit

Check Operating Hours

Hours can vary, so confirm them beforehand to avoid disappointment.Reddit

Line App Discount

Add them on LINE for a potential 10% discount on your visit.Reddit

Swimwear Zone Availability

This onsen offers mixed swimwear zones, which is uncommon in Japan.Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Your Own Towel!

Save money by bringing your own towel; rentals are available but cost extra.Reddit

Check Operating Hours

Hours can vary, so confirm them beforehand to avoid disappointment.Reddit

Line App Discount

Add them on LINE for a potential 10% discount on your visit.Reddit

Swimwear Zone Availability

This onsen offers mixed swimwear zones, which is uncommon in Japan.Reddit

Tattoo Policy Check

While swimwear is allowed, tattoos might still be an issue for entry.Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.8
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Ishiwari-no-Yu Onsen offers a traditional experience with the unique benefit of a mixed swimwear zone, making it accessible for couples and families. While the outdoor hinoki bath and relaxing garden are praised, some visitors note the facility's small size, potential for crowding, and mixed reviews on cleanliness and amenities.

"A traditional onsen that seems to be oftened by locals in the area. They have big baths and changing rooms, but not quite spacious enough to accommodate so many people. The saune could only have 3 people inside. Their outdoor baths were very nice and quite hot. Food were fairly priced and tasted fine. There are a lot of stuff being sold in the facility and the lounge space was definitely relaxing, though the space is limited. It’s not a big facility, just worth its price. 😊"

Ann Gayle Sibonghanoy

"Nice onsen near Yamanakako.
Several types of baths, both indoor and outdoor.
The building also hosts a small market with local vegetables, a small restaurant (ramen, etc.) and several tatami rooms just to relax between the baths.
The place is clean and well organized, with a nice garden in the middle.
You can rent a towel on site, no need to bring anything."

Stéfan -

"Get 10% off after you add them as friend in Line. They provide free shampoo and soap but you will need to bring your own towel. The hot spring is not big for both indoor and outdoor. Note their operating hour to avoid dissapointment."

カンMax

What People Like

Swimwear allowed
Outdoor hinoki bath
Relaxing garden

What People Dislike

Crowded baths
Small sauna
Mixed cleanliness reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ishiwari-no-Yu Onsen is located near Yamanakako. While specific public transport details are scarce, it's generally accessible by car, with plenty of parking available.Reddit If relying on public transport, research local bus routes from nearby stations or Yamanakako itself.

Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the facility, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The admission fee is generally around 900 yen, but it's advisable to check for any seasonal changes or special offers. Some visitors have noted additional fees for simply waiting in the building.Reddit

It's highly recommended to bring your own towel to save on rental costs. Towels can be rented on-site if needed.Reddit

While this onsen offers mixed swimwear zones, tattoos may still be a reason for denial of entry, as experienced by one visitor.Reddit It's best to inquire directly about their tattoo policy before your visit.

Yes, Ishiwari-no-Yu Onsen is known for having mixed swimwear zones, which is a significant advantage for couples or those who prefer to wear swimwear.Reddit

Operating hours can vary, and it's crucial to check them in advance to avoid disappointment. Some reviews suggest checking them to avoid issues, especially if planning an evening visit.Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The onsen features both indoor and outdoor baths. The outdoor bath, made from hinoki cypress, is a particular highlight.Reddit

Crowding can be an issue, especially during peak times. Some visitors found the baths and sauna to be small and crowded, with the sauna only accommodating about 3 people.Reddit

Yes, free shampoo and soap are provided in the bathing areas. However, some reviews mention low-quality products and a lack of cleanliness in some areas.Reddit

Yes, there is a sauna available, but it is quite small and can only accommodate a few people at a time.Reddit

Reviews on cleanliness are mixed. While some found the facility clean and well-organized, others reported issues like hair in the bathing areas and expressed concerns about hygiene.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a small restaurant on-site serving items like ramen. Food is generally considered fairly priced and tastes fine.Reddit

The restaurant offers a limited menu, including ramen and other simple dishes. It's described more as a cafeteria by some visitors.Reddit

While the main restaurant is available, some visitors noted that even eating there might incur an additional fee if not bathing, which was a point of confusion and frustration for one guest.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies in onsen can be strict, especially in bathing areas. It's best to assume that photos are not allowed in the bathing areas to respect other guests' privacy. The garden and lounge areas might be more permissible, but always check for signage.

The outdoor hinoki cypress bath and the tranquil garden areas are likely the most picturesque spots. Capturing the traditional wooden architecture can also yield beautiful shots.

You may also like

Ishiwari-no-Yu Onsen (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide