Furuyu Onsen

Along the clear Kase River in the Fuji district of Saga City lies Furuyu Onsen, a mountain-village spa said to have been discovered in the distant past. Set among the hills at about two hundred meters elevation, its greatest charm is the lukewarm, near-body-temperature water in which you can soak for a long, relaxing while.

Highlights

The high-pH alkaline simple thermal water is soft and slippery, known as nuru-yu, or gentle warm water, and lets you linger for extended soaks. Because the mild temperature places little strain on the body and rarely leaves you overheated, bathing here feels like a slow unwinding of body and mind. Long favored by writers and artists, the quiet setting suits reading and quiet reflection.

Enjoying the Seasons

Spring brings cherry blossoms along the Kase River, and early summer offers fireflies dancing over the clear stream. In summer, visitors come seeking cool mountain air, and autumn colors the surrounding hills. Winter offers the luxury of a long, gentle soak amid snowy scenery.

Access and Basic Information

The spa lies among the hills about thirty minutes by car from central Saga City, heading north along the road that follows the Kase River. Day-use bathing facilities nearby make it easy to try the gentle waters. Buses also serve the area, but service is limited, so checking schedules in advance is recommended.

A Quick Tip

The true way to enjoy nuru-yu is a slow soak of thirty minutes or more. Come with time to spare and savor both the water and the quiet.