Nasu Yumoto Onsen (那須湯本温泉)

Introduction: The Primordial Sulfur Sanctuary of the Nine-Tailed Fox

Deep in the volcanic highlands of northern Tochigi, where the slopes of Mt. Chausu exhale ancient gases, lies Nasu Yumoto Onsen (那須湯本温泉). Established in 630 AD, it is the 32nd oldest hot spring in Japan and the spiritual heart of the “Nasu Seven Springs.”[1, 2] This is a destination defined by its raw, milky-white waters and the haunting landscape of the Sessho-seki (Killing Stone), a site of mythical warfare involving the legendary fox spirit Tamamo-no-Mae. For the international traveler, Nasu Yumoto offers a profound immersion into Japan’s 1,300-year-old Toji (healing) culture. Here, you can experience the ritualistic “Shika-no-Yu” (Deer’s Bath), submerge in highly acidic minerals that reset the skin, and walk through the “Riverbed of Spirits” (Sai-no-Kawara) where hundreds of Jizo statues stand watch. It is a place where the barrier between modern wellness and ancient folklore is as thin as the mountain mist.

Key Information Table

The Healing Waters: The “Deer’s Miracle” and the Art of Temperature

The water at Nasu Yumoto Onsen is legendary for its chemical potency. Tapping into the magma layers beneath Mt. Chausu, the spring is a **Pure Acidic Sulfur Spring**.
The Clinical Sterilization: With a pH as low as 2.0, the water acts as a powerful antiseptic, effectively “stripping” the skin of bad bacteria—a process highly valued for treating chronic eczema and psoriasis.[6, 5]
Traditional Bathing Rituals: The icon of Yumoto is Shika-no-Yu, where the **”Awase-yu”** (Combined Bathing) method is preserved. Bathers move through multiple wooden tubs ranging from 41°C to a scorching 48°C. Before entering, the **”Kake-yu”** ritual is mandatory: pouring 100-200 ladles of hot water over the head while squatting, which aids in blood vessel dilation and prevents “bath dizziness” caused by the intense minerals.

Top Recommended Stays: Legacy and Luxury

• Nasu Onsen Sanraku (那須温泉 山楽): A long-established luxury ryokan (100+ years) where the Imperial Family has often dined. It offers high-ground views and uses the “Daimaru” source, providing a more gentle minerals for those with sensitive skin.
• Hotel Sun Valley Nasu (ホテルサンバレー那須): A massive resort perfect for families, featuring the “Yuyu Tengoku” spa complex with 44 different tub styles using three distinct spring sources.
• Hotel Epinard Nasu: The premier standard for international hospitality in the region. They offer extensive Western-style amenities and are highly accommodating to large groups and non-Japanese speakers.
• Wakakiryokan (若喜旅館): A beautifully maintained traditional inn that provides a cozy, authentic experience near the Yumoto bus terminal.
• TOWA Pure Cottages: Independent lodge units perfect for long stays or travelers with pets, offering direct access to the Nasu Highland Park area.

Must-Visit Neighborhood Spots: Split Stones and Thousand Jizos

Sessho-seki (The Killing Stone): A volcanic outcrop famous for its toxic gas emissions and the Nine-Tailed Fox legend. The stone split in two in March 2022, creating international headlines.
Sen-tai Jizo (Thousand Statues): Over 800 stone Jizo statues with mysterious smiling faces line the path to the Killing Stone, creating an “おどろおどろしい” (eerie yet spiritual) atmosphere unique to Nasu.[7, 8]
Nasu Onsen Shrine: Located right next to Shika-no-Yu. It is tradition to pray here for health before entering the sulfur tubs.

Local Gastronomy: Miso, Yuba, and Highland Beef

Nasu is famous for its **Dairy and Wagyu**, but the Yumoto district adds a layer of mountain refinement.
Tochigi Wagyu “Takumi”: Premium A5 beef often served at the local ryokans.
Vegetarian/Vegan Survival:
穀菜茶房こと葉 (Kotoha): Located just 10 mins away, this is the region’s premier 100% **Vegan Macrobiotic** restaurant. They serve a single course, “Kotoha-zen,” using no animal products, no sugar, and mostly organic vegetables.
Matsuoka (松おか): A legendary natural food house in a private home setting, recreating meat textures with local grains and mountain vegetables.
Vegan Tip: Buy the three-year fermented **”Nasu Miso”**—naturally vegan—at the Michi-no-Eki and enjoy it with fresh local cucumbers.

Cultural & Historical Context: 1,395 Years of Resilience

Founded in the era of Emperor Jomei (630 AD), Nasu Yumoto was discovered by a hunter named Kano Saburo Yukihiro, who saw a wounded deer heal its injuries in the steam. Historically, the town was “関脇” (Sekiwake, a high rank) on the Edo-period Onsen Rankings due to its medicinal efficacy.[9] Today, the town preserves its “Toji” identity while participating in the **Nasuwaku** digital worker community to ensure sustainable hospitality for the 2026 season.

Practical Travel Tips for International Visitors

• Tattoo Policy: Yumoto Fujiya Hotel and others allow entry if tattoos are covered by up to two 8x10cm stickers. Most traditional inns suggest booking a **Private Bath (Kashikiri)** for complete privacy.
• Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available in the Yumoto town center and most major hotel lobbies.
• Language Barrier: While Yumoto is very welcoming, the technical “Jikan-yu” rules are in Japanese; use a translation app to follow the head-pouring ritual correctly.

2025-2026 Latest Updates

温泉総選挙 2025 (Onsen Election): Nasu Onsen-kyo won the **Special Jury Award** in December 2025 for its “Walking and Bathing” infrastructure.
WINTER MARKET: The “Nasu Fuyu-ichi” market will run through late January 2026, featuring local sweets made with Tochigi strawberries and Nasu milk.

Safety & Manners

Volcanic Gas: Around the Killing Stone, high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide occur. **Do not stray from the paths** and avoid the area if you have severe respiratory issues.
Wildlife: 2025 saw record bear sightings. **Always carry a bear bell** when hiking the Nature Study Path.[10, 11]
Driving: Snow tires are **mandatory** from late November to April due to steep, icy slopes.