Yoichi Hot Spring

This is a hidden hot spring in Otawara City, Tochigi Prefecture. I visited around 3pm on a Sunday and there were a lot of local old folks there. The hot spring gives the impression of being a historic hot spring, with an old-fashioned atmosphere. The indoor and outdoor baths are just the right size. It's rare to see someone go from the bath to the outdoor bath. The alkaline spring water is slightly yellowish, leaving your skin feeling smooth after a bath. The fact that it's a free-flowing spring is also nice. The water temperature was just right for both the indoor and outdoor baths. The indoor and outdoor baths are large enough to accommodate about 25 people, but there are only five washing areas, so you might have to wait a bit if it's busy. The parking lot is quite large and can accommodate around 30 to 40 cars, but since it's in a local area, you might pass it by at night. The lady at the reception desk is very polite and willing to help you. And best of all, 600 yen is cheap for the Kanto region! The hot spring had a very different feel from a health spa.

It was located in the mountains, far from Yaita Interchange. There was a cat inn by the entrance, and I looked for its owner, but unfortunately I couldn't find it. The day trip fee is quite reasonable at 600 yen. Perhaps because of this, the parking lot was almost full. The facility is old, but it is well-maintained and I enjoyed using it. The spring water was smooth and silky! My skin became moisturized in no time. It was a cold day, so the outdoor bath was lukewarm. The back of the inn has a roof and warm water comes out from below, so I recommend going there. It seems to be a favorite of the local ladies, as they seem to keep an eye on any guests who arrive later (lol).

Visited at 10:10am on a weekday in October 2025. Parking is available around the building and in front, with space for approximately 30 cars. After entering the entrance, the reception is on the left and payments are accepted in cash. The indoor bath can accommodate approximately 20 people, and the open-air bath can also accommodate nearly 20 people. The hot spring water is colorless and transparent, and the temperature was just right at around 39-40°C. There are two 15-tatami mat lounges inside the building, so it looks like you can relax there. I didn't eat there, but the food menu was extensive and looked delicious, so I would like to try it next time.

I visited around 4pm on a Saturday. It was surprisingly crowded, and there was a line for one of the five washing areas. Although it was posted on the wall, the hot spring water is free-flowing from the source, with no added water, heating, or circulation. It had a slight sulfur smell and a mild flavor, and was very fresh. There was no sauna, but there was a small cold water bath. The open-air bath was cooler than the indoor bath, so I was able to stay in it for a longer time. The nearby Kiminoyu bath is also nice, but this one is smaller and more cozy. The funny-faced photo of the landlady near the ticket machine is hilarious.

This was my first time visiting, and I think it's a hidden gem of a hot spring...Even though it was a weekday, the parking lot was about half full with cars with Kanto license plates and local cars. The water was warm, probably around 38-39 degrees. I don't like hot water, so it was comfortable. The water was a bit slimy, just like a typical hot spring. There was a tatami-mat rest area, and some people were taking naps after their bath (lol). Meals are also available, but they were closed when we visited (around 3pm).