Exploring Yugawara

Yugawara a small resort town in western Kanagawa prefecture approximately 2.5 hours outside of Tokyo (Shinjuku) by express train (info HERE; map HERE). Famous for its hot springs and traditional craft shops, it is a popular destination for Tokyo-ites to spend the weekend at an inn.

I had the pleasure of visiting this charming town last fall; while there, I did a little of everything: hiking, autumn leaves viewing, and testing the hot springs. Let's take a look at Yugawara!

Photos: waterfall & flowing river

                

This hiking trail was actually on the way to the foot baths park, called 'Manyo Hot Water Park' (site HERE -- translation software activated). It's an easy walking trail, paved for the most part and appeared to be wheelchair accessible. 

Photo: Pink filter

Photo: Completely Zen

Hiking here to enjoy the leaves was wonderful. It's not well known, even among Japanese locals, so this area is a great escape from the city. The best part? At the end of the hiking trail is a hot spring park, with numerous places to soak your feet. Each bath has a unique feature such as bubble jets, stones for foot massage, etc. It's outdoors among the bamboo trees and the perfect way to sample Japan's hot springs without going 'au natural'!

Photo: Jet bath

Photo: Cutenekko soaks amid the bubbles...

If you are in the area of Hakone or Odawara, why not make a side trip to the little town of Yugawara? 

Enjoy outdoor baths!

Special Bonus: 
In Tokyo, there is a Buddhist temple called Gotokuji (read more HERE). It is most famous for housing a mini-army of cats! As my name means 'cute cat', I had to visit. I took two photos showing the power of these felines. Enjoy!

Photos: All hail us me-ow!
   

~ Information ~ 

Manyo Hot Water Park is located in Yugawara, Kanagawa prefecture. Homepage HERE. TripAdvisor reviews are HERE.

Access: 

Take JR Tokaido line to Yugawara station. Catch the Kanachu #2 bus from Yugawara station. Ride for about 10 minutes getting off at 'Ochiai Bridge'. 

Coming by car? Parking is available but there is a charge of 300 yen ($3).

Cost: 

To soak your feet in the baths, you need to pay. I'm sorry I forgot the cost, but I think it's about 500 yen per person ($5).