Funagoya Onsen

In the old days, it was said that sparrows flying over the spring would crash to their deaths if they passed over it, and people would not go near it. After the Meiji era (1868-1912), when the spring was proven to be effective, many people began to come to the area. It is one of the most famous springs in Japan, having been visited by the great writer Soseki Natsume and the Emperor Showa.

It is a cold mineral spring with a temperature of 19°C and is one of the few iron-containing highly concentrated carbonic acid springs in Japan. Since the carbonic acid component remains after the spring has gushed out, drinking it has special effects for gastrointestinal problems, anemia, diabetes, and chronic constipation. You can sample it for free at "Funagoya Kosenjo", a retro-style building in the center of the hot spring resort.

If you take a bath, it is said to be effective for neuralgia, muscle pain, joint pain, sensitivity to cold, cuts, burns, and skin diseases. Visitors can enjoy a one-day spa at "Kawano-eki Funakoya Koi Botaru," which has an open-air bath and footbath, and at "Hotel Higuchiken", a long-established hotel that has been in business since the Meiji era (1868-1912). You can take a bath without prior preparation, as amenities and towels are available for rent and for sale.