Located in the Yuzaki area of Shirahama Onsen in Wakayama, Muro-no-Yu is a traditional public bathhouse where visitors can experience two different natural hot spring sources in one place.
For hot spring lovers, this is a special spot.Unlike many modern spas, Muro-no-Yu preserves the atmosphere of a classic Japanese public bath.
Even better, the baths are supplied by two different natural spring sources flowing directly into the tubs.
- ##One of Japan’s Oldest Hot Spring Areas
- ##Two Different Hot Spring Sources
- ##Mabuyu Spring (砿湯源泉)
- ##Miyuki Spring (行幸源泉)
- ##How to Enjoy the Baths
- ##Access
- ##Access by Air (Nanki–Shirahama Airport)
- ##From the Airport to Muro-no-Yu
- ##Recommended Travel Plan for Onsen Lovers
- ##Admission Fee
- ##Opening Hours
- ##Tattoo Policy
- ##Final Thoughts
##One of Japan’s Oldest Hot Spring Areas
Shirahama Onsen is considered one of the oldest hot spring resorts in Japan.
It was mentioned in the ancient Japanese chronicle Nihon Shoki, which recorded imperial visits to the hot springs known as “Muro no Onsen.
”The name “Muro” is the historical origin of today’s bathhouse name Muro-no-Yu.
For centuries, nobles, monks, and travelers have visited this area to enjoy its healing waters.
##Two Different Hot Spring Sources
The main attraction of Muro-no-Yu is the ability to compare two types of hot spring water.
##Mabuyu Spring (砿湯源泉)
Type: Sodium chloride hot spring with sulfur componentsCharacteristics:
・Strong mineral content
・Slight sulfur aroma
・Very warming bath
This water feels rich and powerful.After bathing, your body stays warm for a long time.
##Miyuki Spring (行幸源泉)
Type: Sodium chloride / bicarbonate hot spring
Characteristics:
・Softer water texture
・Smooth feeling on the skin
・Slightly alkaline
This spring is known for its gentle touch and skin-smoothing effect.
Interestingly, the famous seaside bath **Saki-no-Yu Onsen also uses water from the Miyuki source.
##How to Enjoy the Baths
Hot spring enthusiasts often recommend alternating between the baths.
☆Mabuyu → Miyuki → Mabuyu
The stronger mineral bath warms the body, while the softer bath relaxes the skin.
##Access
Nearest station:Shirahama StationFrom the station, take a local bus for about 15 minutes and get off at Yuzaki bus stop.From there, it is about a 5-minute walk.
By car:About 15 minutes from Nanki-Shirahama IC.Parking: small free parking area available.
##Access by Air (Nanki–Shirahama Airport)
If you are traveling to Shirahama by plane, the nearest airport isNanki-Shirahama Airport.
This small regional airport provides convenient access to Shirahama’s famous hot spring area.
Direct flights operate betweenHaneda Airport in Tokyo and Nanki-Shirahama Airport, mainly operated byJapan Airlines.
The flight takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, making Shirahama one of the easiest hot spring destinations to reach from Tokyo.
##From the Airport to Muro-no-Yu
Once you arrive at the airport, getting to Shirahama Onsen is simple.
By Bus
Take an airport bus heading towardShirahama Station.
Get off at Yuzaki Bus Stop, which is located in the Shirahama hot spring area.
From there, Muro-no-Yu is about a 5-minute walk.
Travel time: about 25 minutes
By Taxi
You can also take a taxi directly from the airport.
Travel time: about 15 minutes
Estimated fare: around 2,000 yen
This is the easiest option if you have luggage.
##Recommended Travel Plan for Onsen Lovers
If you arrive by plane, here is a great plan:
Airport → Muro-no-Yu →Shirahama Beach →Saki no Yu→ Hotel Check-in
After a flight, relaxing in a natural flowing hot spring bath is the perfect way to start your Shirahama trip.
There is a separate article about Sakinoyu.
##Admission Fee
Adults: 420 yen
Children: 140 yen
Infants: 80 yen
##Opening Hours
9:00 – 11:00
14:00 – 21:30
Closed on Tuesdays.
##Tattoo Policy
In Shirahama Onsen, tattoo policies vary depending on the facility.
At public bathhouses such asMuro-no-Yu,small tattoos are often allowed, but visitors may be asked to cover larger tattoos with a tattoo cover sticker.
If you are unsure, it is best to ask staff before entering the bath.
##Final Thoughts
Muro-no-Yu is not a luxurious spa.Instead, it offers something better for true hot spring lovers:
・Historic atmosphere
・Two natural spring sources
・Authentic flowing hot spring water
If you visit Shirahama, don’t miss this classic bathhouse.
It’s one of the best places to experience the true spirit of Japanese onsen culture.
They also sell commemorative towels.
If you want to experience one of the most spectacular oceanfront hot springs in Japan, don’t missSaki-no-Yu Onsen.
Located on the rocky coastline of Shirahama, this historic open-air bath lets you soak in natural hot spring water while listening to waves from the Pacific Ocean.
It is considered one of the most scenic and historic hot springs in Japan, and it is also known for being tattoo-friendly, making it popular with international travelers.
Read the full guide here:
Saki-no-Yu Onsen – Japan’s Famous Oceanfront Hot Spring in Shirahama👇️
If you’re planning an overseas trip 👇️
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