The public bathhouse at the heart of Yamashiro Onsen's 'Yu-no-gawa' square in the Kaga hot-spring region, a spa 1,300 years old. In Kaga communal baths are called 'sōyu', and even ryokan guests walk over in yukata. The entrance reuses the gate of the old Yoshinoya inn; inside is spacious and clean, with one big tub of fresh undiluted water (sodium-calcium sulphate-chloride) flowing freely. Adults ¥500, open 06:00–22:00, closed only on the morning of the 4th Wednesday. A ¥900 combined ticket includes the 'Ko-sōyu' opposite (¥700), a recreation of the Meiji-era bathhouse with Kutani-ware tiles and stained glass — comparing the two is the classic plan. Soap and shampoo are sold, not provided. About 10 minutes by bus from Kaga-Onsen Station.

✔ Verified operating: 2026-09 ゆる〜と 2025-10 口コミ（大人500円・6–22時・第4水曜午前休・共通券900円）／ニフティ 2026年度版

Prices and hours change. Check official sources before visiting.

More in this area

Ishikawa · Wakura OnsenTattoos: Ask ahead

Wakura Onsen Sōyu

Salty water rising from the Noto sea, for ¥500. The community anchor of the onsen town, still operating after the 2024 Noto earthquake. Open-air and indoor baths plus a rest area.

Public bathhouse (sento)Natural hot springDay use ¥500

Ishikawa · Yamashiro Onsen, KagaTattoos: Ask ahead

Yamashiro Onsen Ko-Sōyu

A faithful reconstruction of the Meiji-era public bath, with stained glass and Kutani-ware tiles. No washing stations — you simply soak, the old way. The combined ticket with the adjacent Sōyu is the better deal.

Public bathhouse (sento)Natural hot springDay use ¥700

Ishikawa · Yamashiro Onsen, KagaTattoos: Ask ahead

Yamanaka Onsen Kiku-no-yu (Sōyu)

The communal 'sōyu' of Yamanaka, praised by the poet Bashō as one of Japan's three finest baths. Men's and women's halls stand in separate buildings across the street; the deep, hot (~43°C) pool is the signature. 6:45 am to 10 pm, ¥500. Bring your own soap.

Public bathhouse (sento)Natural hot springDay use ¥500