An alkaline simple thermal spring, weakly mineralized and gentle on the body. At pH 8.7 from the source it sits in the alkaline range, giving the slippery feel of Japan's beauty-water family. The water is colorless and clear with no taste, carrying only a faint rotten-egg note of hydrogen sulfide.
569. Hakuryukaku, Yamanashi ★★★
Old-school shabby concrete ryokan, living out its final days. Outside the bubble era, this place couldn't have existed. Visited for higaeri at 800 yen. Higaeri hours are from 10:00 to 20:00. Daily bath rotation between male/female. They stamp the Yamanashi 100 Onsen book.
1. Outdoor bath in stone. Standing — gorgeous view of the river, waterfall, and trees. Sitting — view shifts to trees. Lots of maples; during momiji season it must be absolutely amazing. The place isn't well maintained — a spider web near the bath edge grew from a few strands into a full oval trap over two days. Clear water, temperature around 42°C.
2. Indoor area. Breathing inside is fine. Through the glass the view is mediocre — it fogs up, and right outside are metal structures.
2.1. Large bath. Looks like a pool in photos, but it's actually a large onsen bath. Clear water, temperature around 42°C.
2.2. Small bath with a strong utaseyu. Clear water, temperature around 39°C.
Incredibly cool place, highly recommended for higaeri or even possibly for staying overnight if this kind of shabby retro vibe appeals to you.
14.05.2025 16.05.2025