Nozawa Hot Spring Kumanotearaiyu
Hot Spring Overview
This historic hot spring is said to have been discovered in the Kamakura period, when a wounded bear, pursued by hunters, healed its injuries in the waters.
The bath features both hot and lukewarm sections, and among the baths in Nozawa Onsen, it is known for being milder and more comfortable for first-time visitors.
Across from the entrance, there is a kettle for making onsen tamago (hot spring eggs).
The spring water is sourced from Ogama and Kumanotearai-yu.
About Secluded Rating
Access (Difficulty to Reach)
15min walk
Scenery & Atmosphere
City area
Onsen Value
Historic unique spring
Nozawa Onsen is an easily accessible hot spring village, reachable by car or public transportation.
Despite its accessibility, it holds a unique distinction—it is the only village in Japan with "Onsen" (hot spring) in its name, and the hot spring culture is deeply woven into the fabric of daily life.
Scattered throughout the village are 13 communal bathhouses (soto-yu), each with a simple and modest design—just a space to remove your shoes and a small changing area. Rather than being tourist facilities, these baths are considered "baths for daily life," intimately connected to the local community.
These communal baths are maintained and managed by a group of local residents known as “Yunakama”, who distribute hot spring water from the source free of charge to each facility.
Though Nozawa Onsen is a popular destination, its enduring culture of communal bathing and its deep local traditions give it the authentic charm of a hidden onsen.
Hot Spring Details
Practical Info
Visit Log
Bath Types
Facilities
Access Information
Take the Shinkansen to JR Iiyama Station, then transfer to the direct bus “Nozawa Onsen Liner”, which takes approximately 25 minutes to reach Nozawa Onsen.
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