Hakuundani Onsen is a day-use hot spring facility in Ono City, Hyogo Prefecture. Surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil natural scenery, it offers visitors a relaxing escape from the bustle of everyday life. Popular with local residents as well as visitors from farther afield, this welcoming hot spring is an ideal destination for a restorative day trip.
The hot spring facility, known as Yupika, draws its water from approximately 1,300 meters underground, from geological formations associated with the Miki Fault and the Mesozoic Ikuno Group. It takes its name from its location beside Hakuundani Pond. Designed by Showa Sekkei, the building is distinguished by its exposed-concrete exterior and contemporary architectural style.
Yupika’s architecture makes clever use of the natural shape of the valley, creating a distinctive atmosphere that blends with the surrounding landscape. At the entrance, a series of arches formed from massive timber beams welcomes visitors along a long approach. The bathing areas are situated on a lower level, so the full structure is not immediately visible from the entrance. This layout gives the facility a secluded, hidden-retreat atmosphere.
The outdoor baths overlook Hakuundani Pond, allowing bathers to enjoy views of the water and surrounding greenery while soaking in the hot spring. The close connection with nature is one of the facility’s main attractions. A free footbath is also available, providing a simple way to enjoy the warm spring water without using the main bathing facilities.
Inside the complex, visitors can also find Soroban Shrine, a small shrine associated with Ono City’s traditional abacus-making culture. Ono has a long history of abacus craftsmanship, and the shrine offers an additional glimpse into the area’s local heritage.
Hakuundani Onsen is classified as a low-temperature calcium-sodium chloride spring. The source temperature is 25.6°C, and the spring produces approximately 80 liters of water per minute, equivalent to around 260 tons per day. Its abundant water supply supports the facility’s bathing areas.
The spring water is not suitable for drinking. Bathing is traditionally associated with relief from a variety of physical complaints, although individual results vary and hot spring bathing should not be regarded as a substitute for medical treatment.
The hot spring has traditionally been used for bathing associated with the following conditions:
Nerve pain, muscle pain, joint pain, frozen shoulder, motor paralysis, bruises, chronic digestive disorders, hemorrhoids, sensitivity to cold, chronic skin conditions, chronic gynecological conditions, and recovery after illness.
The facility includes a Japanese restaurant called Hakuundani, where visitors can enjoy dishes prepared with local ingredients. According to the published information, the restaurant is open from 10:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. A shop selling regional products is also available, offering opportunities to browse local specialties and choose souvenirs after a relaxing bath.
Hakuundani Onsen underwent a major renovation on December 24, 2019, introducing a new infinity bath. Designed to make the water’s edge appear to merge seamlessly with the surrounding scenery, the bath creates the impression that the pool extends directly into the natural landscape. This design enhances the feeling of openness and makes the views from the water a highlight of the experience.
The facility is approximately 10 minutes by car from Miki-Ono Interchange on the Sanyo Expressway, making it convenient for visitors traveling around Hyogo Prefecture by car.
Bus services are available from Ichiba Station on the JR West Kakogawa Line and Ono Station on the Kobe Electric Railway Ao Line. Ono City’s community bus, known as the Ranran Bus, is a useful option for reaching Hakuundani Onsen Yupika. Check current routes and timetables before traveling, as services may vary.
Hakuundani Onsen combines modern architecture, abundant hot spring water, and peaceful natural surroundings. Visitors can unwind in the open-air or infinity baths, enjoy the free footbath, and have a meal at the on-site Japanese restaurant. Its reputation as a favorite local retreat has also attracted visitors from beyond the area, including Yuriko Kobayashi, a track-and-field athlete from Ono City. For travelers exploring the Akashi and Kakogawa area, Yupika offers a pleasant opportunity to relax and experience another side of Hyogo’s hot spring culture.