Benten Onsen (弁天温泉)

Introduction: The Sacred “Finishing Bath” of the Benzaiten Deity

Nestled high on the eastern slopes of Mt. Chausu at an altitude of 1,200 meters lies Benten Onsen (弁天温泉). This destination is defined by its deep spiritual roots and its unique role in the traditional Nasu pilgrimage. Historically discovered in 1884 by Sahide Kobayashi, legend says the location was revealed to him in a dream by **Benzaiten**, the goddess of water and music, who commanded him to excavate the source and unearth her buried statue. For the international traveler, Benten Onsen offers a quiet, contemplative atmosphere away from the busier Yumoto district. Known as the **”Shiage-no-yu” (Finishing Bath)**, its gentle minerals are used to soothe the skin after the intense acidity of other Nasu springs. It is a sanctuary where the spirit of the water is literally enshrined in the rock.[1, 2]

Key Information Table

The Healing Waters: The “Iron and Mineral” Synergy

The water at Benten Onsen is geologically prized for its **Neutral pH (6.4–7.0)** and its complex mineral suspension. While the water appears colorless and odorless, it contains distinct **brownish-red “Yunohana”** (mineral flowers), signaling a rich content of iron and silicates.
The “Finishing” Ritual: Because the nearby Nasu Yumoto springs are highly acidic (pH 2.0), they can sometimes irritate sensitive skin (a condition called *Yu-tadare*). Benten’s neutral water acts as a natural buffer, neutralizing the acid and “finishing” the healing process by sealing in moisture and nutrients.
The Internal Advantage: Historically used as an **Insen (Drinking Onsen)**, these waters are believed to alleviate anemia and chronic indigestion. The facility draws directly from a rock cavern where 210 liters per minute gush from the Earth, maintaining a temperature of 48°C to 60°C.

Top Recommended Stays & Bases

• Benten Onsen Ryokan (弁天温泉旅館): The primary traditional inn. It offers a rustic, “mountain temple” atmosphere where the roar of the Kudagawa River creates a constant natural soundtrack. **Note:** Check for current operational status.[11, 12]
• Kyukamura Nasu (Nearby): Located just minutes away, this is a large-scale National Park resort that offers full western-standard accessibility and buffet dining using fresh Nasu vegetables.
• Hotel Epinard Nasu (Nearby): The top choice for international families who want a luxury base at the mountain foot with shuttle services to the upper Benten area.[13, 14]

Must-Visit Neighborhood Spots: Caverns and Suspension Bridges

Benten Shrine (弁財天の祠): Located behind the ryokan, this small shrine marks the original discovery site. The cave behind the altar is where the hot spring water originates.
Benten Suspension Bridge (Benten Tsuribashi): A spectacular 65-meter span crossing the苦土川 (Kudagawa) ravine. It offers one of the best viewpoints for the Nasu autumn foliage (mid-October).[15, 16]
Choushu-no-Izumi (Spring of Longevity): A clear mountain spring located near the inn’s entrance, featuring an ancient Jizo statue that guards the water.

Local Gastronomy & Souvenirs

Food in the upper Nasu area is defined by “Mountain Survival” and high-altitude health.
Wild Vegetable Kaiseki: Meals at local inns center around *Sansai* (warabi, zenmai) and river fish like Char and Yamame trout.[17, 18]
Vegetarian/Vegan Survival:
Matsuoka (松おか): Located in nearby Nasu-machi, this is a 100% organic vegan sanctuary. They specialize in **Enzyme-fermented Brown Rice** and vegetable-only courses. **Full reservation is essential.**[19, 20, 21]
Vegan Tip: Kyukamura Nasu is accustomed to international dietary needs. Specify your vegan status when booking to enjoy local **Yuba (Soy milk skin)** and vegetable-based sets.[22, 23]

Cultural & Historical Context: The Voice in the Dream

Benten Onsen is one of the **Nasu Seven Springs** and represents the deep intersection between Shinto belief and geology. The rediscovery in 1884 by Sahide Kobayashi is a story of faith; he spent his life’s fortune based on a single dream vision to bring the “Goddess’s Water” back to the people. Today, the site preserves this sacred air, feeling more like a mountain hermitage than a commercial resort.

Practical Travel Tips for International Visitors

• 2025-2026 Status Alert: As of mid-2025, some reports indicate that *Benten Onsen Ryokan* may be temporarily **closed** or transitioning in management.[24, 11, 12] **Always call ahead (+81-287-76-2211)** before attempting to visit for day-trip bathing.
• Tattoo Policy: If operational, the inn follows traditional guidelines. However, for international travelers, using cover stickers (available at drugstores) is generally acceptable for communal areas.
• Cash & Payments: This remote area is Strictly Cash-Only for parking and small entries. Credit cards are only accepted at larger mountain resorts like Kyukamura.

Latest Updates: Confusion with Other “Benten” Springs

Travelers should be careful not to confuse the Nasu Benten Onsen with **Benten Kosen** in Chiba (famous for color-changing sulfur water) or the Benten pool at **Enospa** in Fujisawa. The Nasu location is a mountain retreat focused on neutral mineral therapy.[8]

Safety & Manners

Wildlife Caution: 2025 has seen an increase in **Bear sightings** near the Benten Suspension Bridge.[25, 26] **Always carry a bear bell** and avoid the trails at dawn or dusk.[27, 28]
Onsen Warning: The “Yunohana” floating in the water can sometimes look like debris, but it is actually highly concentrated mineral sediment. **Do not rinse it off** after your bath if you want the maximum therapeutic effect for your skin.