Sakuyama Onsen (佐久山温泉)

Introduction: The Hidden Gem of the Former Castle Town

Nestled in the gentle hills of Otawara’s southern district, Sakuyama Onsen (佐久山温泉) is a destination that captures the essence of “Old Japan” without the crowds. Once a thriving castle town and an important stop on the historic Oshu Highway, Sakuyama is now celebrated for its lush greenery and high-quality mineral springs. Centered around the therapeutic Kimi-no-Yu (The Sovereign’s Water), this onsen is a local secret known for its profound physical healing properties. For the international traveler, Sakuyama offers a quiet refuge where you can experience the beauty of the seasons—most notably the spectacular autumn maples of Gotenyama Park—while soaking in waters that are clinically effective for skin health and nervous system recovery.[39, 36, 40]

Key Information Table

The Healing Waters: The “Deep Rebound” of the Kimi-no-Yu

The water at Sakuyama Onsen, specifically at the Kimi-no-Yu source, is geologically categorized as an **Alkaline Hypotonic High-Temperature Spring**.[41, 42]
The Clinical Focus: Unlike many recreational springs, Kimi-no-Yu is often used for “Balneo-therapy” (mineral water therapy). It is highly recommended for individuals suffering from **Atopic Dermatitis** and chronic allergic conditions because its gentle mineral balance cleanses without irritation.[39]
The facility features indoor mineral tubs, a scenic outdoor Rotenburo, and specialized **Bedrock Bathing (Ganbanyoku)**, which uses far-infrared heat to detoxify the body at a cellular level.[42, 43, 44] The water’s temperature and mineral density are carefully maintained to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, making it an excellent choice for travelers suffering from jet lag or burnout.

Top Recommended Stays: History and Seclusion

• Sakuyama Onsen Kimi-no-Yu (Lodging Wing): The primary choice for those seeking a dedicated wellness stay. It offers clean, traditional rooms with full access to the spa facilities and high-speed Wi-Fi.[36, 43]
• Hotel Tamano (Nearby): Located just 10 minutes away near the station, providing a reliable Western-style alternative for those who prefer beds over futons.[45, 17]
• Farm Stay Eri (蜂の巣): For a truly immersive “satoyama” experience, this local farmhouse offers international visitors a chance to live with a Japanese family and experience rural agriculture firsthand.[38, 46]

Must-Visit Neighborhood Spots: Castles and Red Maples

Gotenyama Park (Sakuyama Castle Ruins): Built in the 12th century by the Sakuyama clan, these ruins are now one of Tochigi’s premier **Autumn Foliage** spots. The “Tosa Maple” trees here turn a brilliant, fiery red in mid-to-late November.[40, 24, 47]
Sakuyama Elementary School: Built directly on the site of the former *Jinya* (administrative estate), it provides a unique look at how feudal history integrates with modern life.[48, 40]
Huge Zelkova of Sakuyama: A massive ancient tree that stands as a guardian of the town, perfect for a short meditative walk after your bath.[36]

Local Gastronomy: The Legendary Sakuyama Croquette

No visit to Sakuyama is complete without tasting its famous “B-grade Gourmet.”
Sakuyama Croquette (和気精肉店): Sold by the Waki Butcher Shop, these croquettes are made with premium local beef and sweet potatoes. They are so popular that people drive from across the prefecture to buy them.[49, 50, 51]
Vegetarian/Vegan Survival:
Vegan Alternative: At the onsen’s restaurant, request the **”Yuba (Soy Milk Skin) Plate”** or local **”Konjac Sashimi”**—both are regional specialties of Otawara and are naturally vegan-friendly.
Vegan Tip: Buy the frozen **”Motsu-ni”** (if meat-eating) or local vegetables at the roadside station, but for strictly plant-based meals, we recommend checking Cuore Del Sol in nearby Nasushiobara, an all-vegan Italian-style oasis.

Cultural & Historical Context: From Samurai to Satoyama

The name “Sakuyama” refers to the “Hills of the Blossoming Peaks.” Historically, the Fukuhara clan ruled this area from their fortified estate (*Jinya*). The town preserves its layout from the Edo period, and the local community is deeply proud of its **Mingei** (Folk Craft) roots.[52, 53, 48] The onsen here is an extension of this hospitality—honest, unassuming, and deeply rooted in the earth.

Practical Travel Tips for International Visitors

• Tattoo Policy: Kimi-no-Yu is relatively accommodating. They offer **Private Rental Baths (Kashikiri-buro)** where guests with tattoos can bathe without restriction. Using cover stickers in the communal bath is also accepted.[54, 43, 55]
• Connectivity: Unlike many rural spas, Kimi-no-Yu provides **Free Wi-Fi** throughout the facility, making it a good spot for “Workations.”[42, 43]
• Driving: The road to Sakuyama from the Yaita IC is narrow but scenic. Watch for farmers and cyclists on the satoyama backroads.[18, 32, 24]

2025-2026 Latest Updates

Gotenyama Maple Festival 2025: Scheduled for mid-November 2025, featuring a nighttime light-up of the ancient castle moats and maple trees.
New Eco-Lodge Initiatives: Sakuyama is expanding its sustainable farming programs, allowing onsen guests to participate in rice harvesting in Autumn 2026.

Safety & Manners

Wildlife Note: Sakuyama is a forest-edge community. If you are walking in Gotenyama Park at dusk, please **talk loudly or make noise** to alert any local wildlife of your presence.[56, 35, 36, 37]
Etiquette: In Kimi-no-Yu, please refrain from using cell phones in the dressing room—the local residents value their privacy and the quiet atmosphere of their “healing spring.”[57, 24]