Yamagata · Kaminoyama Onsen
Kaminoyama Onsen Shimo-Ōyu Public Bath
かみのやま温泉 下大湯共同浴場
The oldest of the communal baths surviving in the spa town of Kaminoyama, a former castle and post town about 10 minutes on foot from Kaminoyama-Onsen Station on the Yamagata Shinkansen. Moved to its present site in 1624, it is said to have been used by the Zen master Takuan. The big tub is split into hot and tepid halves, filled free-flowing with clear sodium-calcium-chloride-sulphate water. With its flagstone washing area and old-style attendant's counter, it charges an astonishing ¥150 for adults and ¥100 for children (hair washing ¥100 extra), and the tatami hall upstairs can be used for a day's rest for ¥300. Open 06:00–22:00 (from 06:30 December–February; last entry 21:30), every day. Take a morning or evening dip with locals while touring Kaminoyama Castle, the samurai-house street and the town's five foot baths. About 25 minutes by car from Yamagata city, 40 minutes from Zaō Onsen. No soap is provided, so bring your own; park in the shopping-street car park opposite.
- Price (adult)
- ¥150
- Hours
- 06:00–22:00 (from 06:30 Dec–Feb)
- Closed
- Open daily
- Access
- About 10 min on foot from Kaminoyama-Onsen Station (Yamagata Shinkansen / Ōu Line); about 10 min by car from Yamagata-Kaminoyama IC; about 25 min from Yamagata city
- Water type
- Sulfate spring
- Tattoos
- Ask ahead
- Phone
- 023-672-0839
- Official site
- http://kaminoyama-spa.com ↗
- Open in Google Maps
- Google Maps ↗
Essentials
Stay in this onsen town
Compare and book stays in Kaminoyama Onsen. Day bathing itself needs no booking.
Opens partner booking site (affiliate)
Why go
- Castle-town bath in use since 1624
- Hot and tepid free-flowing tubs
- ¥150; from 6 am daily; 10 min from the station
Before you go
- No official tattoo policy is published — ask at reception.
- As a communal bath there is no soap or shampoo — bring your own or buy at the shop.
- Payment is usually by ticket machine in cash — bring coins.
- Last entry is 30–60 minutes before closing.
Features
Mood & scenery
Price
Who with
Convenience
Amenities
✔ Verified operating: 2026-09 ゆる〜と／駅探／上山市観光物産協会（大人150円 小学生100円・6–22時 12–2月6:30–・無休）
Prices and hours change. Check official sources before visiting.
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