Namari Onsen

Cradled in the mountains far up the Toyosawa River, Namari Onsen is a single-inn spring that still carries the culture of old-style healing baths. Said to have opened in the Muromachi era, it has soothed countless travelers over the centuries. Its greatest gift is a stillness far removed from the bustle of daily life.

Highlights

Its famous Shirozaru bath is a standing pool roughly 1.25 meters deep. The source rises naturally from the very floor of the bath, letting you soak to the shoulders while standing, a truly unusual experience. The lofty, open-ceilinged bathhouse is a sight in itself, wrapping you in the warmth of its timber construction.

Enjoying the Seasons

Spring brightens the budding hills, and summer draws a cool breeze up the gorge. The autumn foliage dresses the valley in brocade, while winter, sealed in deep snow, makes the warmth of the water feel all the more welcome.

Access and Basic Information

The inn is about thirty minutes by car from JR Hanamaki Station, near the deepest point of the Hanamaki South gorge. Day bathing is available, so you can easily try the famous standing bath.

A Quick Tip

The standing bath is deeper than it looks, so grip the handrail firmly as you enter. Lower yourself slowly and you will feel the freshness of water welling up from below.