Yahiko Onsen

In front of Yahiko Onsen, there are two famous tourist spots. The first is Yahiko Shrine, which is marked by Japan's largest torii gate. The shrine is also famous for its god of matchmaking, attracting many women and couples seeking love fulfillment. The second spot is Mt. Yahiko, which stands at an elevation of 634 meters, the same height as Tokyo Skytree. From the summit, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Echigo Plain. The night view of the Echigo Plain has been selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Night Views. There is also a ropeway, so even those who don't have time for mountain climbing can easily access the area.

For those coming by car, it's about a 30-minute drive from the "Tsubame-Sanjo IC" on the Kanetsu Expressway to the national route 289. For those coming by train, take the JR Yahiko Line from "Tsubame-Sanjo Station" on the Joetsu Shinkansen and get off at "Yahiko Station," which is the nearest station to the hot springs, in about 30-40 minutes. Please note that the Yahiko Line runs only once an hour, so be careful when transferring. For those coming by plane to Niigata Airport, the "Niigata West Coast Liner," a shared taxi directly to the Yahiko Onsen area, is available, so please use it.

According to the legend of the Yumijinja Onsen, the source of Yahiko Onsen, about 1000 years ago, a village hunter went deep into the mountains to chase a wounded mountain bird. There, he found a pond where birds and beasts were taking a bath. It is said that when the wounded mountain bird soaked in the hot spring, its wounds were immediately healed! Truly a "godly hot spring" that heals wounds. This sacred spring has already dried up, but Yahiko Onsen was created in its image. Yahiko Onsen today has no less effect and efficacy than the former sacred spring.