Shuzenji Onsen, known as the oldest hot spring in Izu, is attractive for its townscape where the atmosphere of a hot spring resort harmonizes with abundant nature. It was founded by Kobo Daishi Kukai, the founder of the Shingon sect of Buddhism.Shuzenji TempleThe hot spring town is centered around [the name of the hot spring area]. This time, we are visiting again to celebrate my husband's birthday. The hot spring town is [the name of the hot spring area].Michelin Green Guide Japan"Shuzenji Temple」、「Bamboo grove path」、「Shizuki-dono”However, it has been awarded two Michelin stars, and in the previous "Part 1," we introduced "Shuzenji Temple" and "Shigetsuden," but this time, in "Part 2," we will introduce the highlight of strolling through the hot spring town,"Tokko no Yu," "Kawara Yu," "Bamboo Grove Path," "Kaede Bridge" We will visit them in order.
Tokko-no-yu, a historical site said to be the birthplace of Shuzenji Onsen.
Legend has it that about 1200 years ago, Kobo Daishi Kukai, moved by the filial piety of a boy washing his sick father in the Katsura River, struck a rock with his vajra (a Buddhist implement) to cause a miraculous spring to gush forth, thus spreading the practice of hot spring therapy. Currently, it is preserved as a historical site and is only open for viewing, but it has become a symbolic landmark of the hot spring town. (Bathing and footbaths are not permitted.)
Because it has a ramp, you can safely bring your dog in a stroller.
Surrounded by the gentle murmur of the Katsura River and the rising steam from the hot springs,
Looking at the serene face of Kobo Daishi holding his vajra, one can reflect on the history of the hot springs.
Footbath "Kawarayu"
Located just downstream from Tokko-no-yu is the footbath "Kawara-yu." This area was once home to a communal bathhouse where travelers and villagers alike used a hot spring pool built on the riverbank. While the bathing facilities no longer exist, this footbath was opened on April 3, 2010.KawarayuIt was named "[name omitted]". Currently, there are stone monuments and explanatory signs that convey the remnants of that time, and it is a free footbath that can be used to remember the days when it was an integral part of life in the hot spring town.
Soak your tired feet in a warm footbath, letting the alkaline simple hot spring water soothe and heal them.
With space for about six people at a time, this footbath is perfect for a quick soak during your stroll.
The promenade along the Katsura River is lined with lush trees, and a pleasant breeze blows across the river.
Even though the midsummer sun is strong, much of the walking path is shaded by trees, and each time the sunlight filters through the leaves, it feels like you're in a cool, natural tunnel. The sound of the flowing river and the chirping of cicadas blend together, creating a healing time that makes you forget the summer heat.
"Katsurabashi (Bridge of Connection)"
Five vermilion bridges span the Katsura River, and it is said that if you cross all of them while making a wish, your love will be fulfilled. Each bridge has a different name, representing meeting, being united, and finding peace together. Whether you believe it or not is up to you, but these bridges are perfect for praying for success in love.
① Togetsubashi Bridge / Also known as: Misomebashi Bridge / Prayers for good fortune in love
② Kokeibashi Bridge / Also known as: Akogarebashi Bridge / For success in love
③ Katsura Bridge / Also known as: The Bridge of Connection / Prayers for having children
④ Kaedebashi Bridge / Also known as: Yorisoi Bridge / Marriage prayer
⑤ Takishita Bridge / Also known as: Yasuragi Bridge / Marital Harmony
The view from the Katsura River is truly symbolic of the Shuzenji Onsen hot spring resort town, and you can enjoy the changing colors of the seasons while feeling the breeze from the bridge.
In midsummer, the Katsura River is covered in blooming crape myrtle flowers, and the trees lining the river are a deep, vibrant green, shimmering in the sunlight. The lush green trees are reflected on the river's surface, and together with the clear current, create a refreshing scene.
The Bamboo Grove Path is a representative walking trail in the Shuzenji Onsen hot spring resort area.
This is a walking path along the Katsura River, which was developed over a period of three years starting in 1994, and features magnificent bamboo groves on both sides.
The bamboo grove stretching straight along the cobblestone path offers a sense of tranquility and peace that makes you forget the passage of time.
Sitting on the round bamboo bench in the center and listening to the sound of the bamboo swaying in the breeze is also highly recommended. During the day, it offers a refreshing and cool landscape, and at night, the illumination creates a magical atmosphere, making it a spot where you can experience different charms depending on the time of day you visit.
As lunchtime approaches, the flow of people begins to increase.
For taking commemorative photos and other similar activities, it's recommended to stroll around in the early morning when it's less crowded.
We've arrived at Kaede Bridge, the fourth of the five bridges spanning the Katsura River.
"Kaedebashi (Yorisoi Bridge)"
After passing through the bamboo grove path, you'll come across the fourth bridge, "Kaedebashi (Yorisoibashi)" (Maple Bridge/Snuggling Bridge). As its name suggests, in autumn, the colorful foliage on the river surface creates an even more vibrant landscape.
If you go further, you will see the "Gallery Shuzenji Corridor."
The photo exhibition at this time was "Tokko-no-Yu: Past and Present." The exhibition featured photographs capturing the past and present of "Tokko-no-Yu," the birthplace of Shuzenji Onsen, and allowed visitors to feel the history of the hot spring town anew. Admission was free, which was a nice bonus as it made it easy to drop by. It's a great little detour spot where you can take a break during your stroll and experience the history and culture of Shuzenji.
In one corner of the exhibition room, a sepia-toned photograph of the old "Tokko-no-Yu" hot spring was on display. The sight of the simple bathhouse built in the middle of the river, with steam rising from it, was quite different from the well-maintained historical site of today, and it evoked a sense of nostalgia. The atmosphere of the past, when travelers and locals gathered around the bath to soothe their minds and bodies, was quietly conveyed through the photograph.
Starting from "Tokko-no-Yu" hot spring, the course continues along the "Bamboo Grove Path" and then to "Kaede Bridge," a walking route that condenses the history and natural beauty of Shuzenji Onsen town. It's easy to see why it received two stars in the "Michelin Green Guide Japan," as simply walking along it provides a sense of healing and wonder.
