Yurari Onsen: Hot Spring with a View of Mt. Fuji

Staff Journal

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There is one experience that, unfortunately, many foreign tourists (especially Westerners) find a bit uncomfortable: Japanese hot springs (onsens). But you shouldn’t pass up the opportunity to try one, especially when it comes with a great view of Mt. Fuji.

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▲Yurari Onsen (Narusawa Village)

For those who are unfamiliar with the concept, most hot springs in Japan (or onsens, in Japanese) are public bath houses where guests share the same bathing space (and yes, everyone is naked). However, private onsens exist as well, and they are called “kashikiri onsen” in Japanese. Often times, onsens will have more than one bath to choose from, and some can even be enjoyed outside.

The Baths

Fuji Yurari Onsen, in Narusawa Village at the foot of Mt. Fuji, is a bath house with a view that will take your breath away. You can make it a day-trip, allowing you to enjoy the waters without needing to worry about making an overnight stay. They also run specials for guests who plan to visit other sites in the area, such as ski resorts, hotels, and so forth.

Yurari Onsen has a total of 16 baths, located on the first, second and third floors (the private onsens can be found here). Every bath comes with a great view of Mt. Fuji. My favorite is on the first floor, and its name translates as the “Sacred Peak Open-Air Bath.” There’s another great one on the third floor, with a panoramic view. Sitting in these baths has a mysterious way of making all my stress wash away…

Fujizakura (Restaurant)

After all that bathing, you will have probably worked up an appetite. Good thing there is an in-house restaurant! Fujizakura has both vegetarian and Halal menu options (make a reservation a week in advance for the Halal option). If you book a private room to eat in, there is a special little train that comes to deliver your food to you!

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▲Fujizakura (restaurant) at Yurari Onsen

A Relaxing Massage

Yurari Onsen has several massage courses to choose from, including head massages, oil massages, and even Thai massages.

Fuji Yurari Onsen is has a relaxing and calming environment that all guests can enjoy. Whether it be the soothing baths with great views, English language services, or vegetarian/Halal menu options—it is clear that they strive to be a welcoming place for all guests.