Kansai · Hongu, Tanabe, Wakayama

♨ Yunomine Onsen

A tiny pilgrim village with Tsuboyu, the only hot spring that is part of a World Heritage Site.

Quick facts

Location: Hongu, Tanabe, Wakayama (Kansai region)
Water type: Sulfate spring
Tattoos: Check ahead with each bath
Directions: Open in Google Maps

The water

A sulphur-bearing hydrogen carbonate spring with chloride and sodium, gushing out at about 92°C. Boil eggs in the Yuzutsu hot-spring vent.

History

Often called one of Japan's oldest onsen, it was a place for Kumano pilgrims to purify themselves. The little Tsuboyu bath is said to change colour seven times a day, and became part of the Kii Mountains World Heritage Site in 2004. It features in the medieval tale of Oguri Hangan.

Getting there

From: Osaka / Kii-Tanabe
Route: JR Limited Express Kuroshio to Kii-Tanabe, then bus toward Hongu
JR Pass: JR train covered; bus not covered.

Check current timetables and fares before you travel.

Famous for (meibutsu)

Meharizushi (food): rice balls wrapped in pickled takana leaves
Kishu nanko ume (food): Wakayama's famous pickled plums

Plan your trip: tours & day trips near Kumano Kodo

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