Yamashiro Onsen

What to know

Yamashiro Onsen (山代温泉) is one of four hot spring towns that form Kaga Onsen. Its waters, known to relieve muscle and joint pain, skin ailments, and digestive issues, were discovered over 1,300 years ago by the monk Gyoki during his pilgrimage to Mount Hakusan.

The town's main draws are its two public bath houses in the center: the Soyu (public bath) and the Ko-Soyu (old public bath). Both were rebuilt in 2008 and 2010 respectively. The Soyu is a modern facility with separate indoor baths for men and women, popular with locals. The Ko-Soyu is a stunning reconstruction of its Meiji-era appearance, complete with a rest area on the second floor.

Around the bath houses, you'll find several ryokan, shops, and other attractions perfect for a stroll. The atmospheric Yakuoin Onsenji Temple sits on the hill behind the Soyu, and Rosanjin's Hut Iroha, the former residence of famed ceramicist Rosanjin, is just a short walk away.

Yamashiro is also known for Kutaniyaki pottery. The Kutaniyaki Kiln Exhibition Hall, just outside the town center, displays antique and modern Kutaniyaki works, as well as the ruins of a large, multi-level Edo-period kiln. Hands-on workshops are available. Kutaniyaki tiles also adorn the walls of the public baths.

Yamashiro Onsen is a 15-minute ride from Kaga Onsen Station on buses bound for Yamanaka Onsen. The one-way fare is 250 yen, with 1-2 connections per hour. It is also served by the Can Bus along the Yamamawari Route (15 minutes from Kaga Onsen Station).

How to get to and around Kaga Onsen