Chūgū Onsen

Hakusan, Ishikawa, Japan

Location: Hakusan, Ishikawa, Japan
Water type: bicarbonate
Temperature: 40 °C
pH: 8

Water profile

Thermicity

Sedative

40 °C

LowHigh

Relaxing — deep, immediate muscle release.

Mineralisation

Restorative

LowHigh

Loaded with major ions — the essential minerals (Ca, Mg).

Buoyancy

Standard buoyancy

LowHigh

Soft water — natural, classic buoyancy.

BicarbonatesSodiumCalcium

Chugu Onsen in Hakusan City, Ishikawa Prefecture sits along the Hakusan White Road, a scenic mountain route that connects Ishikawa with Gifu Prefecture across the Hakusan volcanic range, and operates only during the warmer months since the approach road is closed from December through April due to heavy snowfall typical of this Japan Sea coastal mountain region. The spring flows with bicarbonate and simple thermal waters within the Hakusan National Park area, offering visitors the pleasure of natural mineral bathing amid the extraordinary alpine scenery of the Hakusan volcanic highland, one of Japan's three sacred mountains alongside Fuji and Tateyama. Chugu Onsen's seasonal accessibility and pristine mountain setting make it a distinctive destination that rewards visitors who time their arrival to the brief but beautiful window when the Hakusan highlands are open to travel.

Insider tip — Chugu Onsen nestles in the forested valley approaches to Hakusan, one of Japan's three sacred mountains, making it a favorite rest stop for pilgrims and mountain trekkers. The clear, mild bicarbonate waters are said to promote healing and relaxation after strenuous alpine hikes. The small inn here has preserved a traditional atmosphere with wooden tubs and minimal commercial development. The surrounding beech forest turns spectacular colors in October, and the sound of the nearby mountain stream accompanies every soak.

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