Q. Can you tell me about Shinzaemon no Yu?
Yunohana Chaya Shinzaemon no Yu opened on April 21, 1999. Its name originates from "Iseya Shinzaemon," a brand name that has been passed down through 11 generations in Zao Onsen since the Horeki era.
Inspired by the spirit of coexistence and mutual prosperity with nature and the local community, Shinzaemon no Yu was established to share the joy of experiencing Zao's hot springs and rich natural environment with many people.
Q. What are the features of the hot springs?
The hot spring is a strongly acidic sulfur spring, benefiting from the highland climate and traditionally used for improving frailty. Known as a "beauty bath," it is famous for its ability to leave the skin smooth and radiant.
Spring quality: Acidic sulfur-aluminum sulfate-chloride spring (strongly acidic sulfur spring)
Benefits: Skin beauty, cuts, burns, gynecological conditions, weak children, arteriosclerosis, diabetes, hypertension, and neuralgia
The spring emits a strong sulfur odor, and cuts may sting, so please take caution. While the water is typically clear, it may turn milky or cloudy due to exposure to air or the deposition of Yunohana (hot spring minerals).
At our facility, three open-air baths feature Zao's characteristic sulfur springs, while the indoor baths use artificial alkaline mineral water.
For those who want to maintain the benefits of the spring, it is recommended to lightly towel off without rinsing. If you are sensitive to the sulfur smell, you can either use the indoor baths or rinse off with the shower. Please note that soap cannot be used in the hot springs, but it is available in the indoor baths.
Q. What distinguishes the spring qualities in the Zao area?
Zao Onsen, located on the western side of the Zao mountain range at an altitude of 880 meters, is a historic hot spring area counted among the "Three Famous Hot Springs of Oshu." With a spring yield of 15,000 liters per minute, the water is a strongly acidic sulfur spring with a pH of 1.3, making it the second most acidic hot spring in Japan. This high acidity can be seen in how towels disintegrate after 2–3 days of immersion.
There are five spring groups and 47 individual sources in the area. While the temperatures may vary, there are no significant differences in their benefits.
The most acidic hot spring in Japan is said to be Tamagawa Onsen in Akita, with a pH of 1.2.
Q. Are there parking facilities?
We provide a first parking lot in front of the building and a second parking lot behind the lower area of the footbath.
Availability: 10:00–18:00
Seasonal restrictions: The second parking lot is closed during winter.
For non-guests visiting for skiing or frost-covered trees, parking is available at a fee of ¥2,000 per day.
Q. Can you tell me about the footbath?
Our footbath, supplied directly from the source, is available for ¥100.
Closed: Winter season (December–March)
Hours: 10:00–18:00
Q. Can I take photos inside the facility?
Photography is allowed only in front of the reception (front desk). Photography is prohibited elsewhere within the facility. Additionally, using devices with cameras (e.g., smartphones, tablets) is strictly prohibited in changing rooms and bath areas.
Q. Are there any rest areas?
We have three rest areas:
2nd floor: Two spaces, "Hana Zashiki" and "Yamamomiji"
1st floor: "Komakusa," a space for post-bath relaxation
We also offer one private rest area (a rentable room) for a fee.
Q. Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Bringing outside food and drinks is not allowed due to health department regulations.
Q. Is it possible to exit and re-enter the facility?
Guests cannot freely exit and re-enter the facility. However, movement within the parking lot area is permitted.
Q. Are there private baths or saunas?
We do not have private baths.
A single-person box sauna is available (requires prior online reservation).
Q. What reservations can I make?
We accept reservations via phone for the following services (not via email):
Dining area seating: Reservations not accepted.
Massage therapy: Reservations accepted. Closed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Operating hours: 12:00–18:00 (treatment completion).
Private room (rental): Reservations accepted. Minimum 2 hours, with hourly extensions available. ¥3,000 for 2 hours (max. 6 people, 12 tatami mats).
Dining Area FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions about Restaurant
Q. Can I dine without using the baths?
Yes, dining is available without paying the admission fee. However, during peak hours for bathing guests, dining may be unavailable. The dining area now operates on a self-service basis with meal tickets purchased from vending machines.
Q. Is the dining area wheelchair accessible?
Yes, there is an elevator to the dining area, and table seating is available. Additionally, the restroom in the souvenir shop area is wheelchair-accessible.
Q. Are all the soba noodles 100% buckwheat?
Yes, all our soba noodles are made from 100% buckwheat flour. Our unique preparation method ensures a smooth and firm texture despite the thin noodles.
Q. Are credit cards accepted?
Yes, all major credit cards and QR code payment methods are accepted.
Q. Does the dining area have mid-day closure?
The dining area operates only during lunch hours:
Hours: 11:00–15:00 (last order), closes at 15:30.
Q. Are there smoking areas?
There are no smoking areas in the dining facility. However, an outdoor smoking area with an ashtray is available near the souvenir shop.