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During one of my trips across Japan, I had the pleasure and privilege of staying in Yamashiro Onsen.
This quaint hot spring town, with its rich history and serene atmosphere, is well known for its waters and culture. Its beauty is especially noticeable during the enchanting autumn season. The mix of vibrant foliage, traditional architecture, and cozy hot springs made it an ideal destination for anyone looking to experience the feel of old Japan.
During my visit to the town, I was fortunate to stay at Araya Totoan, a luxurious ryokan with a history dating back to 1639. Staying there allowed me to fully immerse myself in the traditional Japanese experience. Wearing a comfortable yukata given by the ryokan, I walked through the lovely streets, feeling connected to the town’s rich history.
One afternoon, I stumbled upon a sake tasting event at the local tourism office, where I had the chance to sample traditional sake from different parts of the region. It was a delightful experience that deepened my appreciation for the local culture.
One of the highlights of visiting Yamashiro Onsen in autumn is the breathtaking display of fall colors. The town itself becomes a canvas of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows as the leaves change. I spent hours strolling through the cozy streets.
The Yunogawa district was particularly stunning. The combination of traditional buildings and the colorful backdrop created a scene straight out of a postcard. I spent hours wandering the paths, taking in the beauty and snapping photos to capture the memories. One evening, I witnessed one of the most breathtaking sunsets. As the sun moved below the horizon, flocks of birds flew around the traditional rooftops, and the sky was full of stunning cloud formations. It truly felt like a scene from a Studio Ghibli film.
Yamashiro Onsen is famous for its soyu (public bathhouses), and visiting them was an absolute must. I decided to experience the Ko-Soyu, a replica of a Meiji-era bathhouse located right in the heart of the town. The exterior was impressive, but stepping inside felt like entering a different era. The wooden interiors, soft lighting, and the feel of natural hot spring water created a relaxing environment.
There is lot to learn about the local culture of Yamashiro Onsen and the Kaga region. The best place for that is the Kutaniyaki Art Museum. Yamashiro Onsen is part of the Kaga region, famous for its Kutani pottery. The museum showcased stunning pieces, from traditional designs to modern interpretations. It is a fun and engaging way to connect with the artistic heritage of the area.
Another interesting spot was Rosanjin’s Iroha Soan, a historic house where the artist Rosanjin briefly stayed in 1915 to focus on his calligraphy. The house still has its original layout, featuring traditional tatami mat flooring and a garden. Walking through this space and viewing his works offers a look into the mind of one of Japan’s artistic giants..
No journey is complete without trying and enjoying the local cuisine. Autumn in Yamashiro Onsen brings plenty of unique seasonal ingredients. I dined at the ryokan, where they prepared dishes using fresh mushrooms, delicious meat, and locally caught seafood. Each course was a work of art, both in taste and presentation, often served on exquisite Kutani porcelain.
Getting to Yamashiro Onsen is now more convenient than ever. Thanks to the new Shinkansen extension to Kaga Onsen Station, the journey is smooth and efficient. From Tokyo, it’s a comfortable ride on the bullet train, and from Kaga Onsen Station, a short bus or taxi ride brings you to the heart of Yamashiro Onsen. The improved access makes this hidden gem an accessible destination for travellers looking to experience traditional Japan.
My time in Yamashiro Onsen was nothing short of magical. The combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality made it a destination I’ll cherish forever. Autumn highlighted the town’s allure, painting every experience with beautiful colors. It has something for everyone, from soaking in the historic soyu bathhouses, to strolling through streets steeped in history, or enjoying the seasonal delicacies.
If you’re planning a trip to this part of Japan, I highly recommend spending a few days in Yamashiro Onsen. It’s a place where you can slow down, breathe in the crisp autumn air, and truly connect with the soul of Japan.
