Sasayuri No Yu

I visited Kushihara Onsen Sasayuri no Yu in Ena City, Gifu Prefecture. The indoor hot spring is clear and colorless, with a moisturizing and soothing quality. But the best part is the view from the open-air bath. The panoramic view of the mountains from a height of about 464 meters above sea level is truly spectacular. Bathing while watching the changing seasons of nature will instantly wash away your daily fatigue. The sauna is relatively small, but provides ample space for a thorough sweat. The facility is also equipped with a spacious rest area, making it a great place to relax after bathing. As of 2026, there is still a campsite adjacent, making this an extremely satisfying facility where you can enjoy both outdoor activities and hot springs.

The price is reasonable, but you need to bring your own towel. If you don’t have one, you can buy an extra towel there, but the quality isn’t very good. There are free lockers available and free parking. The staff are friendly and helpful. The bathing area doesn’t have many tubs, but the outdoor section has a great atmosphere—and you can even see the stars. When I visited, it was quiet and not crowded at all. The weather was pleasantly cold, which made the experience even better.

The onsen is very nice. It would be best to soak & relax while watching the stars and the momiji changing colors but there were 3 ladies chatting loudly nonstop at the outdoor bath rhe entire time that its hard to relax listening to their voices which can’t be avoided. I hope these kind of people will have a common sense that it is a public space and that others want to relax & have some queit time. Chatting loudly should be minimize. Please respect others!

Best view of the mountains. Rotenburo with view can fit 4 people, but best view is from the pool chair. Go outside 20-30min before sunset to enjoy the different colors of the sky. Facilities also include jet bath, sauna and indoor pool. They also have high-end massage chairs (300yen). Entrance fee is very cheap at 600yen. Restaurant has great food at reasonable price and is open until 20:00 (last order at 19:30).

I love the outside bath from where you can stair at stars. This is a very nice Onsen run by Ena city. It is traditional style with wood carpentry and large tatami rooms to stretch while relaxing.