Hottarakashi Onsen: A Soothing Oasis in Yamanashi

Getting There

• Car

  If you're traveling by car, start your journey from the center of Yamanashi. Use Route 20 to head towards Kofu. Once you reach Kofu, take the Chuo Expressway (中央自動車道) towards Matsumoto. Exit at the Yamanashi I.C. (山梨インターチェンジ). After exiting, follow the signs towards Hokuto City and then take Route 140. Continue on Route 140 until you see signs for Hottarakashi Onsen. The onsen is located at 1669-18 Yatsubo, Yamanashi, 405-0036. There is parking available at the onsen, but it can fill up quickly during peak hours, so plan accordingly.

• Train and Bus

  For those using public transportation, start by taking a train to Kofu Station (甲府駅) via the JR Chuo Line from Tokyo or other major cities in Japan. From Kofu Station, transfer to the Fujikyu Railway (富士急行) and take the train to Tōkyū Yatsubo Station (東急八ツ房駅). From Tōkyū Yatsubo Station, you can catch a local bus that goes directly to Hottarakashi Onsen. The bus ride takes about 20 minutes, and buses run regularly, but it's advisable to check the schedule ahead of time to avoid long waits. The fare for the bus is approximately 500 yen one way.

• Taxi

  If you prefer a more direct route after reaching Kofu Station or Tōkyū Yatsubo Station, you can opt to take a taxi. From Kofu Station, it takes about 30 minutes by taxi to reach Hottarakashi Onsen, and the fare will typically range between 4,000 and 5,000 yen depending on traffic conditions. From Tōkyū Yatsubo Station, the taxi ride is shorter, approximately 15 minutes, and will cost around 2,000 to 3,000 yen.