What to know
Katayamazu Onsen (片山津温泉) is a lively hot spring town on the shores of Shibayamagata Lagoon, one of four resort towns in the Kaga Onsen area. Many of its large ryokan and hotels offer baths with scenic views of the lagoon and distant Mount Hakusan.
The lagoon is said to change color seven times a day naturally. A fountain at its center shoots water up to 70 meters high for a few minutes every hour. A small shrine dedicated to Benten, the goddess of fortune, wealth, music, and knowledge, stands on a pier over the water. Both the shrine and fountain are illuminated in the evenings.
Another attraction not related to bathing is the Museum of Snow and Ice. It displays photographs and equipment of local scientist Nakaya Ukichiro, who dedicated his life to studying snow crystals in Hokkaido and worldwide. The museum also offers hands-on activities with supercooled water and ice.
Below is a list of some of Katayamazu's baths open to day visitors:
Ratings: best of the best best of Japan outstanding
Katayamazu Onsen is accessible by Can Bus (Umimawari Route) from Kaga Onsen Station. The ride takes about an hour, with buses every 1-2 hours. Alternatively, a taxi from Kaga Onsen Station takes about 15 minutes and costs around 2000 yen.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- 6:00 to 22:00
- Closed
- Infrequent, irregular closures (cafe closed on Thursdays)
- Admission
- 500 yen (~$3.2)
- English name
- Kaga and Hakusan
- Original name
- Katayamazu Onsen
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.