Rich in active gases or metals — a strong mineral character.
Buoyancy
Standard buoyancy
LowHigh
Soft water — natural, classic buoyancy.
FerBicarbonatesManganèse
Matsunoyama Onsen Center Taka no Yu is located in Matsunoyama, in the mountains of Niigata Prefecture. Its iron-rich water, pH 6.3, resurfaces at 36°C and serves an indoor bath, an outdoor rotenburo pool and a sauna.
Insider tip — Matsunoyama Onsen is celebrated as one of Japan's three great legendary springs, with intensely saline, iron-rich waters that stain the pools a distinctive reddish-brown. Taka no Yu sits within the scenic gorge village, surrounded by forested hillsides that glow gold in autumn. The strong salt content means even short soaks leave skin deeply moisturized and warmed. Arrive early on weekdays to enjoy the baths in quiet before tour groups arrive.