Jizo no Yu Onsen (地蔵の湯)

Introduction: The Spirit Spring of the “Killing Stone” and the Thousand Bodhisattvas

Deep within the mist-shrouded valleys of Nasu Yumoto, where the air smells of primordial sulfur and ancient myths, lies Jizo no Yu (地蔵の湯). This is not just a destination for relaxation; it is a profound spiritual landscape situated at the edge of the “Sessho-seki” (The Killing Stone) and the desolate beauty of Sai-no-Kawara (The Riverbed of Spirits).[1, 2] Historically, Jizo no Yu is one of the most sacred sources of the Nasu Seven Springs, so highly regarded that its waters are even supplied to the neighboring **Nasu Imperial Villa** for the recuperation of the Imperial Family. For the international traveler, Jizo no Yu offers an encounter with the “Thin Veil” between worlds—a place where you can soak in milky-white, skin-healing minerals while surrounded by nearly 800 stone Jizo statues that guard the souls of the departed.[5, 6] It is a sanctuary of atonement, legends, and volcanic vitality at the very heart of the Nasu mountains.

Key Information Table

The Healing Waters: The “Holy Milk” of the Nasu Peaks

The water at Jizo no Yu is geologically distinct within the Nasu range. It is an **Acidic Hydrogen-Sulfide Spring**, famous for its opaque, milky-white appearance and its intense, earthy aroma.[10, 11]
The Clinical Efficacy: Because the water is acidic and rich in sulfur, it has a powerful sterilizing effect. In balneology, these waters are prized for treating chronic eczema, psoriasis, and “Atopy” by resetting the skin’s surface and stimulating the metabolic recovery of cells.[3, 10, 11]
The Warming Effect: The mineral particles in the milky water create a deep-tissue warmth that lasts long after you exit the bath. Unlike standard simple springs, the high volume of “Yunohana” (mineral flowers) in Jizo no Yu acts as a natural heat-sink for the body.[11] Many bathers at the local **Jizaiso** or other Yumoto lodges report a profound sense of “re-centering” after soaking, which the locals attribute to the spring being a direct blessing from the mountain deity.[13, 3]

Top Recommended Stays & Bases

• Kokoro-no-Oyado Jizaiso (こころの宿 自在荘): Address: 206-98 Yumoto. The premier base for Jizo no Yu. This boutique 15-room ryokan offers a refined, heartwarming stay. They specialize in creative kaiseki that includes “Nasu Unagi” and premium Tochigi Wagyu, all while providing full access to their high-quality private baths using the Jizo source.
• Hotel Sun Valley Nasu: A massive forest resort spread across a vast estate. It is perfect for families, offering diverse indoor and outdoor public onsen baths with 44 different styles of tubs, including a mist sauna.
• Hotel Epinard Nasu: The standard of luxury in the highlands. They offer comprehensive western-style amenities and are highly rated for their focus on local seasonal vegetables and international hospitality standards.
• Minshuku Guesthouses: For the budget-conscious traveler, several traditional guesthouses like Kusano offer a nostalgic Showa-era experience with direct “Kakenagashi” water from the Jizo spring.

Must-Visit Neighborhood Spots: Foxes and Fates

Sessho-seki (The Killing Stone): A National Scenic Spot linked to the legend of the **Nine-Tailed Fox**. The stone mysteriously split in two in March 2022, signaling a new era of spiritual energy in the valley.
Sen-tai Jizo (Thousand Jizo Statues): A mesmerizing collection of over 800 hand-carved stone statues. Each one represents a prayer for safety or the memory of a loved one. The site began in 1978 and continues to grow as visitors dedicate new statues.[6, 14, 15]
Nasu Onsen Shrine: Founded in 630 AD, this shrine is dedicated to the mountain deities. It is the proper place to pay your respects before entering the hot springs. A free **Footbath (Ashiyu)** is available in the square just below the shrine.

Local Gastronomy & Souvenirs

Food in Nasu Yumoto is defined by its high-altitude agriculture and “Fermentation” culture.
Yuba (Soy Milk Skin): Being near the spiritual centers of Nikko and Nasu, yuba is a local delicacy. Try the **”Yuba Wraps”** at neighboring cafes.
Vegetarian/Vegan Survival:
Matsuoka (松おか): Located 15 minutes away, this is a legendary **100% Organic Vegan** restaurant operated within a private home. They specialize in macrobiotic plates that use vegetables to recreate the textures of meat and fish.
Alma Cafe: A cozy spot nearby serving vegan-friendly samosas and fresh seasonal salads.
Vegan Tip: Buy the local **”Nasu Miso”**—a traditional miso fermented for three years—and enjoy it with fresh cucumbers or rice for a simple, protein-rich plant-based snack.

Cultural & Historical Context: The Legend of Kyoden

The name “Jizo no Yu” is inextricably tied to the story of Kyoden, a young priest from the 14th century. Legend says he committed an act of severe parent-disrespect and was swallowed by a volcanic eruption at this very site—the “Kyoden Hell.”[5, 16] The village subsequently established the Jizo statues both to mourn him and as a warning to the living. This context makes Jizo no Yu a site of **”Spiritual Detox”**—where one bathes to cleanse the character as well as the skin.

Practical Travel Tips for International Visitors

• Tattoo Policy: Jizaiso and larger resorts are accommodating if tattoos are covered by stickers (available at the desk).[17, 18] For the communal public bath (which has no staff), using a private bath at your ryokan is the most stress-free option.
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi is standard in lobbies, but guest rooms in older guesthouses may have thick walls that block signal. 4G signal is stable in the Yumoto district.
• Cash & Payments: While large hotels accept major cards, the small tofu shops and shrine stalls are Strictly Cash-Only. Withdraw JPY at the 7-Eleven on the Nasu Kaido before ascending the mountain.[19]

2025-2026 Latest Updates

Nasu “Milk and Strawberry” Fair 2026: Running from **Jan 15 to March 31, 2026**. Local inns near Jizo no Yu will offer specialized sweets made with the famous Nasu dairy products and Tochigi strawberries.
Sustainability: In late 2025, the Sessho-seki walking path was reinforced with recycled forest timber to handle increased eco-tourism traffic.[20]

Safety & Manners

Sulfur Warning: The gas in the valley can be strong. If you feel lightheaded, move to a higher, windier area immediately.[20]
Onsen Etiquette: Always perform **Kake-yu** (rinsing with buckets) before entering the communal tubs. In the milky water, visibility is zero—**move carefully** to avoid bumping into other bathers.
Wildlife: 2025 has seen an increase in **Bear sightings** near the Heisei-no-Mori forest. Carry a bear bell if you plan to walk the trail between Yumoto and the Imperial Villa.