The origins date back to 1953, where the location of the Okumizuma Onsen was just a field for crops deep in the mountains. The landowner, Mr. Okuno, was tending to his land during the winter and he spotted children playing in the rivers located next to nearby rice fields. He called out to them, asking the children whether they were cold, but they responded that they were quite warm playing in the waters during the winter months. He decided to investigate and indeed, the water was quite warm. A quality inspection revealed that natural hot spring water was bubbling through into the river.

Mr. Okuno decided to dig into his land and create a hot spring, but it was not initially used for tourism purposes. He originally created the onsen as a recreational center for retired soldiers, as well as the sick and injured. It was believed that the hot spring water infused into the river has healing properties, and was used by soldiers wounded in the Battle of Sekigahara—a decisive battle that would mark the end of decades of civil strife—in 1600.

Around 1955, the onsen was converted into a resort for tourism purposes. In subsequent years, it changed hands several times, and came to be called Okumizuma Onsen. After the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake in 1995, the main building and the annex underwent a major renovation. They remain unchanged to this day.

At Okumizuma Onsen, the baths contain natural hot spring water pumped up from the ground below. The water itself is given the nickname Bijin-no-Yu, which literally means “spring of beauty,” because it is believed to provide beautifying effects on the skin of whoever bathes in the water. This is said to be a result of high concentrations of natural sodium found in the hot spring water. It is also believed to soothe ailments, such as recovery from fatigue, circulation problems, and chronic skin diseases.

The baths are separated by gender (and change depending on the day), and both include an indoor large public bath and an open-air bath overlooking the mountain stream. Guests who stay at the resort accommodation have unlimited access during its open hours as part of their stay. Visitors can visit the onsen for day-use if they wish. It is ¥1,100 per person for adults, and ¥660 for children up to 12 years old. Day-use of the baths is only available on weekdays. Shampoo, conditioner, and body soap are available at the baths. Lockers and various amenities are also available.

The majority of the rooms at Okumizuma Onsen are laid out in a traditional format with tatami mat flooring. Futon are provided as bedding, but there is one room on the first floor with western-style beds. Bathing and showering facilities are shared by use of the onsen, and one room has a private open-air bath attached to it. The majority of the rooms overlook the mountains and the river passing by, and some overlook the garden in front of the building.

There are plenty of exciting Senshu highlights to see near Okumizuma Onsen. One of the most famous sightseeing spots nearby is the Mizumadera, a temple which is home to a statue of the holy Kannon—the Buddhist deity of mercy who is also said to ward off natural disasters. It is a large temple complex with a history dating back to 744. Aizendo Temple, located just next to Mizuma Temple, is considered to be a lover’s sanctuary, where people go to make their marriage vows. There are also several nearby hiking routes to enjoy.

It is recommended that guests visit Okumizuma Onsen by rental car, especially there is a large parking space available on-site. For those arriving by public transport, alight at Mizuma-Kannon Station, served by the Mizuma Tetsudo Railways. From here, take the Harmony Community Bus (Yellow Line) to Okumizuma Onsen. Bus services are infrequent.

For Senshu tourist information inquiries, please contact the Senshu Japan Concierge Team.