Hottarakashi Onsen

Hottarakashi Onsen (ほったらかし温泉) is a unique hot spring resort nestled on a mountainside in Yamanashi City, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan. Situated at an altitude of approximately 700 meters (2,300 feet), the resort offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Kofu Basin, Mount Fuji, and the surrounding mountains, making it a popular destination for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty.

The resort’s name, “Hottarakashi,” translates to “left as is” or “neglected,” reflecting the rustic and unpretentious atmosphere of the place. The hot springs are said to have been discovered over 1,200 years ago by a wandering monk, and the resort has maintained its traditional charm while offering modern amenities.

Hottarakashi Onsen features two distinct outdoor baths:

• Acchi no Yu (あっちの湯): This bath is known for its spectacular sunrise views, with Mount Fuji often visible in the distance. It opens early in the morning, allowing visitors to soak in the warm water while watching the sunrise over the mountains.
• Kocchi no Yu (こっちの湯): This bath offers stunning views of the Kofu Basin and the surrounding mountains. It opens later in the morning and is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery throughout the day and into the evening.

The hot spring water at Hottarakashi Onsen is a simple alkaline spring, known for its therapeutic properties. It is said to help relieve fatigue, stress, and muscle pain, leaving visitors feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

While the resort does not have a full-service restaurant, it offers a small shop where visitors can purchase light meals, snacks, drinks, and local souvenirs. The shop also sells eggs, which visitors can boil in the hot spring water for a unique and tasty snack.

Hottarakashi Onsen is particularly famous for its winter illumination event, known as “Hottarakashi no Yu Akari” (ほったらかしの湯 あかり). During this event, the entire resort is adorned with thousands of warm lights, creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere. Visitors can soak in the hot springs under the starry sky while surrounded by the twinkling lights and the snow-capped mountains.

To reach Hottarakashi Onsen, visitors can take a local bus from Yamanashi City Station or drive up the winding mountain road. It is recommended to arrive early, especially during weekends and holidays, as the resort can get crowded due to its popularity.

Getting there

By Car

• About 30 minutes from central Kofu
• Take the Chuo Expressway and exit at Katsunuma IC
• Head northwest on Route 151 for about 20 minutes
• Pass through Fuefuki River Fruit Park

By Train and Taxi

1. Take the JR Chuo Main Line to Yamanashishi Station (15 minutes, 240 yen from Kofu)
2. From Yamanashishi Station, take a 10-minute taxi ride (around 2500 yen one way)

Important Notes

• No direct public transportation access is available
• The onsen is located on a mountainside northeast of Kofu, about 700 meters above sea level
• Free parking is available for 280 vehicles

Details

Hours	One hour before sunrise – 10:00 PM Reception closes at 9:30 PM.
Admission	Adults: 900 yen Children: 400 yen
Phone	+81 553-23-1526
Address	1669-18 Yatsubo, Yamanashi, 405-0036
Official Website	http://www.hottarakashi-onsen.com/