A 1300-Year-Old Onsen Town and World Heritage Site
Yunotsu Onsen, one of Japan's most fascinating and historic hot spring hotspots, is in the humble coastal town. A bustling silver trade port in the 16th century, Yunotsu is famed for its healing hot springs. This traditional and humble onsen town feels like it's been frozen in time since its heyday, when it was a popular area for relaxation in the Edo period. Thanks to its authentic untouched beauty, the onsen was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy strolling in the tranquil streets to experience the town's long history and living arts.
In the daytime, take a short walk around a narrow inlet to Okidomari, one of the former ports that served the silver mine. Footpaths go around the surrounding headlands and offer some incredible coastal views. If you have the time, take a stroll past Yunotsu's many old merchant houses and warehouses, which have remained relatively untouched. The red-tiled roofs are rare in Japan.
The town has two main public baths, the Yakushiyu Public Bath and Motoyu Public Bath. Both offer gender-separated baths and mineral-rich waters. The historic building next door to Yakushiyu is now a cute cafe well worth a visit if you find yourself in the area. You can also discover the local crafts like Yunotsu ceramics.
In the daytime, take a short walk around a narrow inlet to Okidomari, one of the former ports that served the silver mine. Footpaths go around the surrounding headlands and offer some incredible coastal views. If you have the time, take a stroll past Yunotsu's many old merchant houses and warehouses, which have remained relatively untouched. The red-tiled roofs are rare in Japan.
The town has two main public baths, the Yakushiyu Public Bath and Motoyu Public Bath. Both offer gender-separated baths and mineral-rich waters. The historic building next door to Yakushiyu is now a cute cafe well worth a visit if you find yourself in the area. You can also discover the local crafts like Yunotsu ceramics.
