Photos by Takahiro Takiguchi ()
Myoban Yunosato is a unique hot spring resort in the center of Beppu, Oita Prefecture. Beppu itself is known as a hot spring capital and is a popular destination for soaking in the steaming mineral waters.
Myoban Yunosato is home to myoban alum hot springs and thatch-roofed huts known as “yunohanagoya,” or sinter huts.
The onsen resort has been producing its own yunohana, essence of onsen mineral powder, since 1725. The therapeutic yunohana is made from alum steam and blue clay crystalized under the huts with straw, cogon grass, bamboo and timber.
According to Satomi Iikura, president of Myoban Onsen Yunosato, the sinter helps keeping your body warm after bathing and relieving shoulder stiffness, back pain and skin disorders.
In the resort, you can take a soak in the outdoor pool with milky white onsen water while enjoying a nice view of the Oita mountains. The restaurant and souvenir shop let you try local delicacies and yunohana products and cosmetics.
Though I didn’t get to try the hot springs, I did enjoy a yunohama pack back at my hotel bathtub. The 10-minute soak was enough to warm me up and make my skin soft.
If you visit, don’t forget to try the steamed eggs, pudding and dumplings cooked with onsen steam.
Myoban Onsen is an unforgettable experience and only a 3.5-hour drive from Sasebo Naval Base!
Myoban Onsen Yunosato Location: 6-kumi, Myoban-onsen, Beppu City, Oita Prefecture URL Tel: 0977-66-8166
