Yumura Onsen
Yumura Onsen in Kofu City is a renowned hot spring with a long history. Over the years, it has attracted writers and famous figures.
Its charming hot spring town atmosphere and rich natural surroundings continue to draw many visitors.
This introduction covers the history of Yumura Onsen, its attractions, access information, nearby sightseeing spots, and accommodations.
History of Yumura Onsen
Yumura Onsen dates back to the Heian period and is said to have been discovered by the monk Kobo Daishi (Kukai).
During the Sengoku period, Takeda Shingen used it as a secret hot spring, bringing his warriors here to heal their exhaustion.
The reputation of its healing properties has drawn numerous writers and poets, and many poems inspired by Yumura remain.
Thus, Yumura Onsen has been loved for centuries as a hot spring rich in history and culture.
Attractions of Yumura Onsen
Yumura Onsen is known for its therapeutic waters and quiet, soothing, hot spring town atmosphere.
The spring water, an alkaline simple hot spring, is gentle on the skin and beautifies. It is known as a “beauty hot spring.”
It is also effective for joint pain, nerve pain, and poor circulation, making it ideal for health and relaxation.
The hot spring town, with its traditional inns and Japanese-style architecture, offers a scenic view with old-fashioned charm.
At night, the gentle lights of the town create a warm and relaxing atmosphere for visitors.
Bathing and Accommodation Facilities
Yumura Onsen offers a variety of inns and hotels, each providing unique bathing experiences.
From traditional Japanese-style inns to modern hotels, the diverse range of accommodations allows visitors to find the best fit for their needs.
Notable accommodations include the Yumura Hotel and long-standing inns, each with distinctive hot spring baths.
Some facilities have open-air baths where visitors can enjoy a seasonal view while bathing, providing a luxurious escape from everyday life.
Sightseeing Spots Near Yumura Onsen
There are many sightseeing spots around Yumura Onsen. Nearby, visitors can explore historical landmarks like Kofu Castle and Takeda Shrine, enriching the experience with Kofu City’s history.
The surrounding area also offers scenic nature spots, ideal for hiking and enjoying outdoor activities.
A particularly recommended spot is Kasugayama Park, known for its seasonal beauty. It becomes a cherry blossom viewing spot in spring, making it perfect for family or friends to visit and enjoy.
Seasonal Experiences
Yumura Onsen offers seasonal beauty throughout the year. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom, while in summer, fresh greenery surrounds the area.
Autumn brings vibrant fall colors, and winter covers the town in snow, creating picturesque scenes.
Autumn, when the fall foliage colors the town red and yellow, is especially popular and attracts many tourists. In winter, visitors can enjoy the luxury of bathing in the hot spring while gazing at the snowy scenery.
Access to Yumura Onsen
Yumura Onsen is a relatively accessible hot spring town in central Tokyo.
It takes about one hour and 30 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station to Kofu Station on the JR Chuo Main Line, followed by a 15-minute bus or taxi ride from Kofu Station.
By car, it’s around a 2-hour drive from Tokyo via the Chuo Expressway.
With its convenient access, Yumura Onsen is an excellent destination for a day trip.
Recommended Ways to Enjoy Yumura Onsen
In addition to bathing in the hot springs, visitors to Yumura Onsen can explore nature and savor local cuisine.
The hot spring town features many restaurants that use local ingredients, offering specialties like Kofu's famous “houtou” noodles and local grapes and wines from Yamanashi Prefecture. Seasonal events and hands-on experiences with traditional crafts also add to the enjoyment of visiting Yumura Onsen.
Yumura Onsen's charm lies in its history, natural surroundings, and picturesque hot spring town atmosphere.