露天風呂。奥から入口側です。

[Day-trip hot springs, reservations required] On a day bathed in the sunlight of late autumn, I visited Hannyaji Onsen, deep in the mountains of Okayama Prefecture. The mountains were in the perfect time for the leaves to change color, and the entire hot spring area was bathed in a stunning blend of red, yellow, and green. This breathtaking scenery was what really raised my expectations for this trip. As I stepped into the hot springs, I was greeted by the loud barking of two beloved dogs, their voices echoing throughout the area. Their barking signaled their welcome. Finally, the owner emerged from the commotion and we finally met. Despite the barking, I gradually came to appreciate the dogs' cuteness, and their adorable appearance soothed my travel fatigue. The owner's friendly and gentle personality was wonderful. Not only did he provide accurate explanations about the spring's quality, but he also enjoyed our engaging conversation, and I felt my mind instantly relax. Now, it was time to head to the baths. The owner's words were not to be disappointing, and an exquisite experience awaited me. I was the first to enjoy this famous hot spring. The indoor bath was filled with a tranquil atmosphere, but the spring water pouring into the tub was powerful, filling it with its blessings. What's particularly noteworthy is that, despite being a free-flowing spring, the water is at an exquisite temperature, miraculously warm enough to allow for long soaks. The water filling the tub gently envelops the body like a cocoon, allowing for a moment of experiencing the hot spring's blessings on one's skin, a quality only experienced by those who have bathed in it. As I felt the force of the gushing water, I was deeply moved, as if I was feeling the blessings of the hot spring gushing down my back. With a pH of just under 10, the spring's quality truly lives up to its promise of beauty. And the soothing scent of my beloved hot springs filled all five senses. After enjoying the bliss of the indoor bath, I headed to the open-air bath, where a breathtaking view unfolded before my eyes. This open-air bath, with its backdrop of autumn leaves, combines the quality of the water with the artistic beauty of nature, and as far as I know, I'm sure it ranks among the best open-air baths in Japan. While the eyes usually adapt to any spectacular view, here, I remained overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of the scenery. Being able to enjoy this exquisite space, both indoor and outdoor, and the breathtaking view for an hour was truly miraculous. The hour flew by in a flash, and it was a fulfilling experience. However, because the open-air bath is at a comfortable temperature, you might need to be prepared in the middle of winter, but this experience far surpassed that. This year seems like a great year for hot springs, and I'm grateful to have come across this amazing hot spring called Hannyaji Onsen. I'd also like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the owner and his dog, who lovingly and lovingly protect and manage this wonderful hot spring.

This private, hidden hot spring is said to have the best water quality of any hot spring in Okutsu Onsen. Reservations are required, so you must call in advance to bathe. The combined reservation and bathing fee of 2,200 yen is a bit pricey, but as rumored, the water was incredibly soothing and left my skin feeling silky smooth. It's no exaggeration to say I had the most exquisite time. The open-air bath was closed when I visited, so I was only able to use the indoor bath, but I still thoroughly enjoyed it. The moment I stepped in, two dogs barked persistently, but with their owner nearby, there was (probably) no danger. The owner was very friendly and explained the hot spring to me in detail, telling me after my bath that spring and May are especially recommended times to visit. The location is a little far from the hot spring town, making it a bit inconvenient, but the charm and secluded feel are outstanding. This was my first experience of a truly "secret hot spring." The only thing I regret this time is that the Gosen seal, which was one of my goals, was sold out, but if I have the opportunity to visit Okutsu Onsen again, I would definitely like to use it again.

It's just over a 20-minute walk from Okutsu Onsen and a 10-minute walk from the Obata bus stop. Public transportation access is relatively good. The baths are available for private use in hourly increments, starting at 0 minutes past the hour. If you have a specific time in mind, make a reservation by phone in advance. The indoor and outdoor baths are reserved for one group, so if you show up without a reservation, you'll likely be unable to enter. The private bath fee is 1,100 yen, plus an admission fee of 1,100 yen. If you rent the baths alone, it's a bit pricey at 2,200 yen, but it was truly blissful to be able to enjoy this private hot spring without being disturbed by anyone. The river had flooded on the day we visited, and the fence surrounding the outdoor bath had been washed away. The scenery was different from usual, and there was a sense of openness, which was great in its own way.

A secret hot spring that requires reservations only Miraculously, I managed to get a reservation. Apparently, many things were washed away into the river during the rainy season, but now, the water has been restored to its former glory, except for the handrails. A moment enveloped in the power of nature and the gentleness of the hot springs. The lukewarm, natural hot spring is not heated. A true "secret hot spring" where you can experience nature in its natural state. By the way, the owner (husband) who manages the hot spring is very talkative. He was happy to share tourist information and the history of the hot springs. It was an unforgettable experience, filled with the warmth of humanity amidst the tranquility!

This hidden hot spring is reserved for private use in hourly increments and requires a reservation. The water isn't hot, but it's just the right temperature, so you can stay in for as long as you like. After soaking for just under an hour, you'll feel warm to the core. The alkaline water has a pH of 9.5, making it a beautiful bath that leaves your skin smooth and silky.♨️ I'd definitely like to return in a different season. It seems there was snow this morning, so the steep stairs leading down from the parking lot were a bit dangerous, but I was very satisfied with the atmosphere. The view of the riverbank and waterfall from the bath was also lovely.