Mie > Shimagahara Onsen (島ヶ原温泉): The Secret Onsen Haven You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner
※Description:
Shimagahara Onsen Yabuccha no Yu (島ヶ原温泉 やぶっちゃの湯) is a secluded hot spring retreat in Mie Prefecture, nestled amid the grand landscapes of Shimagaahara. This 100% natural onsen flows freely without circulation, offering a pure soak in waters warmed to 36.7°C, perfect for unwinding far from urban crowds. With saunas, rotating bathhouses, and local charm, it’s an authentic escape near Iga.
Rooted in the rural heart of Mie, Shimagahara Onsen Yabuccha no Yu (島ヶ原温泉 やぶっちゃの湯) draws its name from the local dialect “kotto,” meaning “me” or “I,” a phrase still heard in everyday life around Shimagaahara. Its mineral-rich waters “kakenagashi” (free-flowing without recycling) promise a genuine onsen experience, while the alternating Kamenose (亀乃瀬) and Taigase (鯛ヶ瀬) bathhouses—switched daily between men and women—add variety. Check the “Onsen Calendar” for details.
Exploring the Onsen and Surroundings
Beyond the baths, Shimagaahara Onsen Yabuccha no Yu (島ヶ原温泉 やぶっちゃの湯) offers more than just relaxation. After soaking, linger at the “Ippuku-ya” rest area or sip fresh vegetable and fruit juices at the on-site “Juice Bar.” Don’t miss the local soy sauce soft cream, a quirky treat, or browse Iga’s famous confections, crafts, and sake. The area also boasts camping, golf, and sports facilities, plus restaurants serving regional specialties—all wrapped in the serene isolation of Shimagaahara’s scenery.
Nearby Attractions
Iga Ueno Castle (上野城): A historic fortress in nearby Iga, tied to ninja lore, offering a peek into Japan’s feudal past with quiet grounds.
Iga Ninja Museum (伊賀流忍者博物館): A unique stop near Iga Ueno Castle, showcasing ninja history, tools, and live demonstrations.
Aoyama Highlands (青山高原): A scenic plateau with rolling hills, ideal for hiking or simply soaking in Mie’s natural beauty.
※NTRanking: 8.0 / 10
Shimagahara Onsen Yabuccha no Yu (島ヶ原温泉 やぶっちゃの湯) stands out for its remote setting and authentic appeal. Far from tourist-heavy zones, it sees minimal crowds—even locals visit sparingly—offering a tranquil soak surrounded by nature. Its proximity to Iga keeps it accessible yet preserves the peaceful, off-the-grid vibe.
※How to Get There:
・From Nara (approximately 2 hours):
Take the JR Yamatoji Line from Nara Station (奈良駅) to Iga-Ueno Station (伊賀上野駅), which takes about 1 hour and 35 minutes.
From Iga-Ueno Station, take a Mie Kotsu Bus bound for Shimagaahara (島ヶ原) and get off at Shimagaahara Onsen (島ヶ原温泉) Bus Stop after about 25 minutes.
From the bus stop, it’s a short 5-minute walk to the onsen.
・From Kyoto (approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes):
Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station (京都駅) to Kizu Station (木津駅), then transfer to the JR Kansai Main Line to Iga-Ueno Station (伊賀上野駅), which takes about 1 hour and 55 minutes total.
From Iga-Ueno Station, take a Mie Kotsu Bus bound for Shimagaahara (島ヶ原) and get off at Shimagaahara Onsen (島ヶ原温泉) Bus Stop after about 25 minutes.
From the bus stop, it’s a short 5-minute walk to the onsen.
・From Nagoya (approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes):
Take the JR Kansai Main Line from Nagoya Station (名古屋駅) to Iga-Ueno Station (伊賀上野駅), which takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
From Iga-Ueno Station, take a Mie Kotsu Bus bound for Shimagaahara (島ヶ原) and get off at Shimagaahara Onsen (島ヶ原温泉) Bus Stop after about 25 minutes.
From the bus stop, it’s a short 5-minute walk to the onsen.
※Address:
13680 Shimagahara, Iga, Mie 519-1711
