Hijiori Onsen is a secluded hot spring village in Yamagata, famed for deep snow, traditional ryokan, and healing mineral baths.
This guide will help you plan your visit—from access and seasonal foods to must-try experiences in one of Japan’s most authentic onsen towns.
Contents
How to Get to Hijiori Onsen
By Train
Take the Yamagata Shinkansen from Tokyo to JR Shinjo Station (approx. 3 hours).
From Shinjo Station, transfer to a local bus to Hijiori Onsen (about 60 minutes).
By Bus
Use the Yamakō Bus from JR Shinjo Station to Hijiori Onsen.
Buses run 3–4 times a day; schedules may vary in winter.
By Car
From Yamagata City: About 2 hours via Route 13 and Route 458.
Snow tires or chains are required in winter. Free parking is available in town.
Check the latest weather forecast before your visit: [weathernews ]
Recommended Itineraries
Half-Day Plan
10:00
Arrive at Hijiori Onsen
Explore the quiet streets and feel the retro atmosphere.
10:30
Visit the Morning Market
Browse fresh mountain vegetables and handmade crafts.
11:30
Footbath and Local Café
Relax in a public footbath and enjoy local sweets.
Full-Day Plan
Follow the half-day plan, then continue exploring nearby attractions:
13:30
Public Bathhouse Experience
Try a local wooden bathhouse used by residents for generations.
15:00
River Walk and Scenic Spots
Stroll along the Sakegawa River and take winter photos.
Must-See Spots and Experiences
Morning Market (Asaichi)
Vendors offer fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade goods every morning.
Traditional Ryokan Stay
Sleep in a tatami-mat room and enjoy kaiseki dinners made with local ingredients.
Footbaths (Ashiyu)
Free hot spring footbaths located throughout the village, perfect for a short break.
Winter Snow Landscape
Experience 2–3 meters of snow and peaceful streets in a fairytale setting.
Best Local Foods to Try
Hijiori’s cuisine features seasonal mountain ingredients, from wild vegetable soba to onsen-steamed buns.Locally brewed doburoku sake and handmade meals offer a true taste of rural Japan.
Onsen Manju – Steamed buns with red bean paste, made with hot spring steam.Sansai Soba – Soba noodles topped with mountain vegetables gathered by locals.Yamagata Beef – High-quality local beef served in hot pot or grilled at ryokan dinners.Doburoku – Cloudy, unrefined sake brewed in small batches during winter.
Where to Stay
Hijiori Onsen offers a variety of ryokan, many with two meals included.
Luxury
Takimi kan – A riverside inn with spacious rooms and open-air baths.Matsubaya – Known for premium meals and private hot spring baths.
Mid-Range
Hijiori Kōgen Hotel – Family-friendly with both Western and Japanese rooms.Gokuraku-so – Cozy atmosphere and good English support.
Budget
Minshuku-style inns – Simple but clean lodging starting around ¥8,000/night.Business Ryokan – Ideal for solo travelers or those staying short-term.
FAQ
Do I need to tip at the onsen?
No, Japan does not have a tipping culture. You don’t need to worry about it.
Is there Wi-Fi in the village?
Most ryokan offer free Wi-Fi. Public Wi-Fi is limited.
Can I visit without staying overnight?
Yes. Public bathhouses allow day-use for around ¥300–¥500.
Are there English signs or menus?
Some. Most ryokan provide basic English support. Use a translation app.
Is Hijiori Onsen suitable for children?
Yes. Some inns offer family rooms and private baths.
Conclusion
Hijiori Onsen is a peaceful hot spring village in Yamagata , known for deep snow, healing waters, and traditional ryokan. Ideal for those seeking a quiet escape from tourist crowds, it offers an authentic onsen experience in Japan’s remote mountain region.
Plan your trip now and discover one of Japan’s best-kept winter secrets.
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