Okumizuma Onsen is a hot spring resort located in Kaizuka City, Osaka Prefecture, in the former Province of Izumi. Known as the “hidden retreat of Senshu,” the onsen is nestled in the mountains of Mt. Izumi-Katsuragi, where visitors can enjoy beautiful natural surroundings and mineral-rich hot spring water.
Okumizuma Onsen was discovered in 1943. Geological surveys at the time revealed an underground layer rich in sodium bicarbonate. Drilling was carried out, eventually bringing natural hot spring water to the surface.
In the period shortly after World War II, the site was used as a public health and recreation facility and became a popular place for people seeking rest and relaxation.
The spring water at Okumizuma Onsen is classified as a sodium-bicarbonate spring with low osmotic pressure, moderate temperature, and cool mineral-water characteristics.
This natural bicarbonate-rich spring is known for its smooth, gentle feel on the skin and is traditionally associated with beauty and skincare benefits. The water can also be consumed as drinking spring water.
It has traditionally been said to be beneficial for conditions including chronic digestive disorders, diabetes, gout, and liver disorders. Because of its reputation for its mineral qualities, the spring has also been known by names such as the “Beauty Bath” and “Miracle Bath.”
Okumizuma Onsen is a single-inn hot spring resort located in the mountainous area of Mt. Izumi-Katsuragi, approximately 5 kilometers from Mizuma Kannon Station.
At the open-air bath, guests can relax while listening to the gentle sounds of the nearby Kogi River. The peaceful setting provides a chance to escape the noise and bustle of the city.
Accommodation plans include one-night stays with two meals. On weekdays, day-trip plans combining bathing and meals are also available.
The inn is also popular with hikers returning from Mt. Izumi-Katsuragi, where a natural beech forest designated as a Natural Monument can be found near the summit.
Because many guests are regular visitors, the inn makes an effort to offer different dishes each day, providing varied hospitality for returning guests.
The hot spring is also characterized by its relatively high concentration of naturally occurring sodium minerals, one of the features associated with the spring’s reputation.
From Kumatori Station on the JR Hanwa Line, Okumizuma Onsen is approximately a 20-minute taxi ride, covering about 9.5 kilometers.
Alternatively, from Kaizuka Station on the Nankai Main Line, transfer to the Mizuma Railway Mizuma Line and get off at Mizuma Kannon Station. From there, the onsen is approximately 5 kilometers away by taxi.
It is also possible to take a Mizutetsu bus and get off at the Okumizuma bus stop.
On weekdays, a shuttle bus operates between Mizuma Kannon Station and the hot spring, with one round trip per day.
The nearest expressway exits are the Kaizuka Interchange on the Hanwa Expressway and the Kaizuka Exit on the Hanshin Expressway Route 4 Wangan Line.
Mizuma-dera Temple is a historic Buddhist temple where visitors can enjoy worship and a peaceful walk through the temple grounds.
Koon-ji Temple is another historic destination nearby, offering visitors an opportunity to appreciate traditional architecture in a quiet natural setting.
Okumizuma Onsen combines the peaceful beauty of the mountains with the relaxing experience of a natural hot spring. Its history, traditional hospitality, and proximity to historic temples and hiking destinations make it an appealing place to explore the Senshu region of southern Osaka.
For travelers looking to experience a quieter side of Osaka away from the city’s major urban centers, Okumizuma Onsen offers a tranquil setting surrounded by the mountains of Mt. Izumi-Katsuragi.