Yudomari Onsen — Local services in Yakushima

The onsen is outside with a clear tarp structure to protect bathers from the elements and also from view. The water is a little bit warm but that means you can soak for a long time! Don’t go expecting to get a hot bath. I went when it was raining so it was a fun experience just listening to the rain on tarp and rocks outside, and there were not that many people. You can walk down the path past the onsen a little to find smaller pools in the rocks to bathe your feet. These are pretty algae covered though. I think the onsen would look better if it was cleaned more, and if the wood and tarpaulin were all more uniform. The structure looks a little haphazard. There’s also not good storage options for you belongings at the entrance to the bath. I also couldn’t find the place to put my donation! I looked all around the building for the money box and couldn’t find it. Last, I think some kind of window to be able to view the outside ocean would be nice. It seems like a shame to not be able to see the coast while you bathe when...

An outdoor traditional onsen by the sea which is separated for men/women by a small wooden fence. The pools are quite small and we went near sunset and the men's side was quite busy but the women's side was empty.

The pool on the men's side could fit maybe 8-10 people at a stretch but it is definitely a traditional Japanese experience! Everyone was very helpful to guide me on what to do and would recommend going around sunset if you can for some lovely views.

A 200 yen per person donation can be left near the entrance and there are toilets and changing rooms before you enter the onsen itself.

It is a bit intimidating if it's busy but well worth it for the...

Nice onsen to visit after a day of hiking and a very traditional experience as well. The road leading down is a bit rough, but it’s easy to find. As some have mentioned, there’s a divider for men/women sides of the pool, though the fence is quite low and only really blocks anything when sitting inside the pool. There are buckets at the side to rinse yourself using the onsen water before getting into the pool. The water temperature was warm but not hot, which was quite nice as it let us stay in it for a while without...