Yanagiyu — Local services in Toyooka

♨️ I've visited Yanagiyu twice, and it stands out as the smallest onsen in Kinosaki, tucked inside a beautifully traditional-looking building.

Be warned — the water here is extremely hot. Even some locals tend to avoid it, but personally, I think it's one of the best places to visit in winter, when the outside temperature drops and soaking in the hottest bath feels like the ultimate retreat.

Since the space is small, timing your visit is important. Yanagiyu opens from 3:00 PM, and in my experience, the best time to go is between 7:00–8:00 PM, when both locals and tourists are usually busy with dinner 🍱.

A quick, intense onsen experience — and a perfect reset after a cold day...

Three stars because it IS good and HOT - not lobster tank hot but if u r numb from the cold u will tingle! Unfortunately extremely SMALL. I went during state of emergency extension second week of Feb 2022 at about 8 pm and a mere 10 people is 5 people too many - maybe ok in the pool/wash area - but the changing area was chaotic with just 10 people. The water in this area is a bit salty, not acidic...

Yanagi-yu is said to ensure fertility and safe childbirth for woman. Yanagi is Japanese for weeping willow, and gets its name from the willow-lined street that runs in front of the Yanagi-yu. This is a cozy bath house. The interior is a classic twist on modern-Japanese style. The rustic wooden interior, from the walls to the bath made from cypress, provides a warm and...