Kamata Onsen: Tokyo's Black Water Oasis
Experience Tokyo's unique 'black water' hot spring at Kamata Onsen, a traditional public bathhouse since 1937. Relax and rejuvenate!
Kamata Onsen, a beloved sento in Ota City, has been a neighborhood fixture since 1937. What sets it apart is its 'kuroyu,' or black water, a natural hot spring drawn from deep underground. This intensely dark water is rich in minerals, the result of decomposed volcanic ash and plant matter from the seabed. The water's dark color is so intense that your hand disappears from sight when submerged. Kamata Onsen offers a variety of bathing experiences, including hot and lukewarm kuroyu baths, an electric bath, a cold-water bath, and a sauna. After a rejuvenating soak, visitors can relax in the spacious second-floor dining area, Kamata Onsen Dining, and enjoy local specialties like Onsen Kamameshi and Shio Yakisoba, along with beer and other refreshments. The facility also sells original goods, including the popular Kamata Onsen T-shirt. The sento maintains a retro atmosphere, offering a glimpse into the traditional Japanese bathing culture. It's a place where locals and tourists alike can unwind and experience the communal aspect of Japanese bathhouses. Kamata Onsen is open daily from 10:00 to 24:00, providing a welcoming escape any time of day.
Local tips
- Bring a small towel and toiletries, or you can purchase a 'Bare Essentials Set' for ¥800, which includes a bath towel, face towel, body soap, and shampoo.
- Be sure to try the 'Onsen Kamameshi' at the second-floor dining area after your bath.
- Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxing experience.
- Tattoos are allowed at Kamata Onsen.
A brief summary to Kamata Onsen
- 2 Chome-23-2 Kamatahoncho, Ota City, 2 Chome Kamatahoncho, Tokyo, 144-0053, JP
- +813-3732-1126
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-12 am
- Tuesday 10 am-12 am
- Wednesday 10 am-12 am
- Thursday 10 am-12 am
- Friday 10 am-12 am
- Saturday 10 am-12 am
- Sunday 10 am-12 am
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From JR Kamata Station (East Exit), it's about a 13-minute walk. Alternatively, take a Keikyu Bus (Kama 71, 73, 74 or 75) from the No. 1 bus stop outside the East Exit to Kamata-honcho bus stop, then walk 2 minutes. The bus costs ¥220. From Keikyu Kamata Station (West Exit), it's about a 12-minute walk. Walk straight along National Route 15 toward Kawasaki, then turn right before the fire station onto Demura Street. Kamata Onsen will be on your left.
-
Walking
From JR Kamata Station (East Exit), walk straight along the main street, then turn left onto the smaller side streets. Follow the signs for Kamata Onsen. The walk is about 13 minutes. From Keikyu Kamata Station (West Exit), walk straight along National Route 15 toward Kawasaki, then turn right before the fire station onto Demura Street. Kamata Onsen will be on your left. The walk is about 12 minutes.
