Station Ganjo-ju Hot Spring

Unwind in the Heart of Nature’s Serenity

Nestled at the northernmost tip of Yamaguchi Prefecture, Ganjo-ju Hot Spring is a roadside station where tranquil mountain landscapes meet rolling farmland. Surrounded by the gentle slopes of the West Chugoku Mountains, this peaceful retreat offers travelers a rare blend of natural beauty and authentic local charm. More than just a stopover, it’s a destination in its own right, where time slows and the rhythms of the countryside come alive.

The highlight is its soothing hot spring baths, drawn from natural mineral-rich waters and open daily from 9:00 to 21:00. Visitors can enjoy a private soak in the exclusive rental bath or relax in the communal baths, surrounded by serene views. The on-site restaurant, Yu-Rakuen, serves seasonal, locally sourced meals, while the shop offers regional specialties like fresh onions and traditional ash-based soaps. With its warm hospitality and deep connection to the land, Ganjo-ju is a true sanctuary for the soul.

Ganjo-ju Hot Spring stands out as the only roadside station in the region offering a genuine onsen experience with a private bath housed in a restored traditional farmhouse, accessible only by reservation. Visitors can savor the rare chance to enjoy locally crafted takuan (pickled daikon) in unlimited quantities at the on-site vegetable stand, a seasonal specialty unique to this location. Surrounded by the quiet, rolling hills of western Yamaguchi, the station also features a rare, authentic ash-based bathwater treatment system, a centuries-old tradition preserved here.

• Best Arrival Time: Arrive by 9:30 AM on weekdays to access the hot spring before the 10:30 AM opening of the restaurant and shop, as the general bathhouse opens at 9:00 AM and fills quickly during peak hours
• Hidden Gems: Visit the bathhouse lobby between 9:00–10:30 AM to collect free seasonal herbal bath additives, which are only available during this window and not sold in the shop
• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the souvenir shop at 10:30 AM to purchase the limited-edition “Takane-ji Pickled Onion” set, which sells out by 11:30 AM and is only available during summer months
• Unique Experience: Reserve the single private bath at least 2 days in advance by calling (代) 083-957-0118, as it’s only available for booking and fills up quickly during holiday periods
• Local Product Tip: Buy the “Kusamugi Ash” (wood ash for traditional bath soaks) from the information desk before 12:00 PM, as it is only distributed daily between 10:30 AM and 12:00 PM and is not restocked
• Dining Advantage: Order the “Takane-ji Seasonal Lunch Set” at the restaurant between 10:30–14:30 PM, as it includes a complimentary local vegetable dish only served during this time window
• Photo Opportunity: Take photos at the “Yakushi-ji Temple Memorial Stone” located near the entrance to the parking area, which is only lit and accessible during daylight hours and features seasonal decorations displayed from July to September

Spring (March–May): Fresh bamboo shoots available at the roadside station in early spring; peak season for local vegetable markets.

Summer (June–August): Free onion picking events run through August; ideal for enjoying the surrounding mountain views.

Autumn (September–November): Autumn foliage in the surrounding hills creates scenic walks; harvest season for local produce.

Winter (December–February): Hot spring baths are most popular during cold months; evening illuminations enhance the serene atmosphere.