Yudanaka Onsen

Overview

Yudanaka Onsen is a historic hot spring town nestled in the Japanese Alps, known for its traditional ryokan inns and therapeutic hot springs. It's a popular destination for relaxation and enjoying the scenic beauty of Nagano.

Yudanaka Onsen is renowned for its healing waters and is one of the most famous onsen towns in Japan, attracting visitors for centuries.

Spa Historical Scenic

Location

Address

Yamanochi, Shimotakai, Nagano

Neighborhood: Shiga Highlands

Coordinates

36.715900, 138.417500

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 11:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$10-$20

Children

varies by onsen

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, October-November

Best Time of Day

Early morning

less crowded, serene atmosphere

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

half-day

Full Experience

overnight stay

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• cherry blossoms
• gardens

summer

hot and humid

• fireworks
• festival

autumn

cool and crisp

• fall foliage
• scenic views

winter

cold and snowy

• snow monkeys
• snow activities

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Reservations recommended
Tattoos may not be allowed in onsens
Follow onsen etiquette

What to Bring

essential

towel swimsuit (if required) toiletries

seasonal

warm clothing in winter umbrella in rainy season

not allowed

large towels in water camera phones in changing areas

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: low

• hot water temperatures
• slippery surfaces

Medical facilities: nearby health centers

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit cards

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Typical Costs

entry $10-$20

parking $5

food $15-$30

overnight stay $100-$300

Dress Code

swimsuit or nude (depending on onsen rules), comfortable shoes and clothing, slippers or barefoot in onsen areas, clothing in hot spring waters

Booking Tips

• at least a week in advance
• official ryokan websites
• varies by ryokan
• private onsen rentals

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Yudanaka Onsen Guide

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Ryokan bookings, Information on onsens

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Ryokans

Charging Stations: Common areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Nagano Airport

Distance: 25 km

Travel Time: 40 minutes

taxi

$80 40 min

public_transport

$10 1 hour 15 min

From City Center

Distance: 10 km

bus

$3 30 min

taxi

$30 20 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Traditional hot springs, cultural heritage

Historical Significance: Historic onsen town with over 400 years of history

Insider Tips

Local cafes offer great soba
Best views from higher elevations

Local Recommendations

• Try soba noodles
• Visit nearby temples
• Explore Shiga Highlands

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Konnichiwa

thank_you Arigato gozaimasu

where_is Doko desu ka

how_much Ikura desu ka

beautiful Kirei desu

ticket Kippu

Guide Languages: Japanese, English, some with Chinese

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Snow Monkey Park entrance

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide angle for landscapes

Result: Beautiful snow monkey shots

#YudanakaOnsen #SnowMonkeys #OnsenLife #JapanTravel

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, designated photo spots

prohibited areas changing rooms, private onsen areas

flash photography not allowed in indoor areas

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy check local regulations

tripod policy restricted in crowded areas

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Jigokudani Monkey Park

Distance: 2km

Walking: 25 min

Type: Wildlife Park

Togakushi Shrine

Distance: 15km

Walking: not walkable

Type: Historical Site

Shiga Kogen

Distance: 10km