Kumo no Ueno Hot Spring

Not your usual hot spring

Kumo no Ueno Hot Spring is well placed in central Shikoku, just 2 km from the center of Yusuhara and it is one of the area’s best onsen stops.

The complex was designed by Kengo Kuma and the onsen connects directly with the Kumo no Ueno gallery, so visitors can walk from the wooden bridge straight to the baths through an elevator. For more info about the architecture, read our story about Kengo Kuma and Yusuhara.

The  Kumo no Ueno Onsen

The onsen is spacious, with a rest area, restaurant, and adjoining shop. The bathing area includes a sauna, two outdoor baths, and a large indoor bath. From the outdoor baths, you look out toward the peaceful surrounding mountains and forest.

The complex also has a swimming pool, although we did not use it. Combination tickets for the pool and onsen are available.

Guests staying at Kumo no Ueno Hotel Annex can use the onsen for free, but need to collect a voucher from the hotel staff each time. Towels are provided at the onsen reception, so there is no need to bring your own. A handy shuttle leaves from the hotel every hour.

Day visitors pay 700 yen. The onsen is open from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM, except on Wednesdays, when it opens from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM.