Akigawa Valley Seoto-no-Yu: Day-Use Hot Spring Prices

By the clear flow of the Akigawa Valley in Akiruno stands Seoto-no-Yu. True to its name, which means the sound of the rapids, you can soak leisurely in silky water while listening to the murmur of the stream running through the gorge. Known as a beauty water, it is a popular refreshment spot where you can savor nature and hot springs on a day trip from the city center.

Highlights

• Smooth, silky natural water with a reputation as a beauty water
• Open-air baths overlooking the greenery and clear stream of the Akigawa Valley
• Well-equipped facilities including a dining area and a local products shop
• A location where you can spend a day strolling through the gorge

Enjoying the Seasons

With fresh young leaves in spring, river play in the clear stream in summer, and foliage coloring the gorge in autumn, Seoto-no-Yu delights visitors through every season. The sound of the water heard from the bath changes with the seasons, and in winter you may even enjoy the luxury of an open-air bath in the snow.

Access and Basic Information

• Location: 565 Ottsu, Akiruno, Tokyo
• Access: about 17 minutes by Nishi-Tokyo Bus (toward Kamiyozawa and others) from Musashi-Itsukaichi Station on the JR Itsukaichi Line, alighting at Seoto-no-Yu; you can also walk from the Jurigi bus stop
• Hours: roughly 10:00 to 22:00 (last entry one hour before closing; varies by season)
• Closed: Tuesdays (may vary by season)
• Admission: about 1,000 yen for adults and 500 yen for elementary students
• Spring quality: an alkaline simple spring known as a beauty water, with open-air baths, indoor baths, a dining area, and a local products shop

Practical Travel Notes

• Recommended season: autumn foliage and early summer greenery are especially beautiful, and summer pairs well with river play.
• Time needed: about half a day for a bath, a meal, and a stroll, or a full day combined with gorge walking.
• Avoiding crowds: weekends and the foliage season are popular and crowded, so early morning is a good target.
• Real spots nearby: the Ishifune suspension bridge, the Akigawa Valley promenade, Ryujin Falls, and the rural scenery of Akiruno are all within walking range.
• Budget sense: admission is around 1,000 yen for adults; budget separately for the dining area and souvenirs from the shop.

A Quick Tip

Weekends and the foliage season are popular and crowded, so early morning is a good target. There are gorge trails and a suspension bridge, so wear comfortable shoes and enjoy both the hot spring and the nature. Buses are infrequent, so check your return time as well.