Hijiori Onsen, building in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan
Hijiori Onsen is a small hot spring village in the mountains of Yamagata Prefecture, located within an old volcanic caldera. The village features around twenty ryokans along its main street, where visitors walk in yukatas and wooden clogs while exploring several thermal baths with varying temperatures and mineral compositions.
The village has served as a hot spring destination for nearly 1200 years, with farmers and workers coming in winter months to soak in the healing waters and recover their bodies. This tradition of Toji, bathing for health, is deeply rooted in the place's history and continues to be valued by visitors today.
The streets of Hijiori Onsen reflect a tight-knit community where neighbors greet each other daily and conversations flow naturally. The tradition of making Kokeshi wooden dolls has been practiced here for over 120 years, celebrated each November with a festival displaying handcrafted painted figures and lanterns lit with ice.
The village is easily reached via the Yamagata Shinkansen from Shinjo Station, followed by a short bus ride of about 40 minutes, or arrange a rental car from Yamagata Airport in around an hour and a half. Bring cash with you, as small shops and inns often do not accept credit cards, and pack warm clothing especially if visiting from December to March.
The village has seventeen different hot spring sources with varying temperatures, from warm to cold, showcasing the unique character of the caldera. The cold mineral fountain produces naturally carbonated water used for drinking after bathing or in local sodas and ciders made in the town.
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