Hana-no-Eki Katashina Hanasaku-no-Yu is a public day-use hot spring facility opened by Katashina Village in Gunma Prefecture in 1998. In addition to its hot springs, the complex features a restaurant, a local farm produce market, a shop selling regional specialties, and an art gallery, making it a popular destination for both sightseeing and community activities.
The facility is a convenient place to stop for a relaxing bath when visiting the Oze and Marunuma Kogen areas, while also serving as a favorite place for local residents to relax. Its open-air baths surrounded by seasonal flowers and a special hot-stone spa using the rare natural mineral Kiyoseki, which is found only in Katashina Village, are among its main attractions.
Kaze-no-Yu is a rustic open-air bath designed in the style of a natural rock garden. Natural stones are incorporated into the garden-like setting, allowing visitors to soak in the hot spring while surrounded by seasonal flowers and greenery.
Each season offers a different atmosphere, from fresh green foliage in spring and the cool highland breeze of summer to brilliant autumn colors and snow-covered winter scenery.
Kaori-no-Yu features an open-air bath designed in the style of an English garden. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak while looking at seasonal flowers and greenery.
On clear days, it is also possible to see Mount Sukai, one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains. The combination of the expansive mountain landscape and peaceful hot spring surroundings creates a particularly relaxing experience.
Kaze-no-Yu and Kaori-no-Yu alternate between the men’s and women’s bathing areas on odd-numbered and even-numbered days. This means that visitors may experience a different atmosphere depending on when they visit.
The hot spring water is an alkaline simple hot spring and is traditionally said to be beneficial for conditions such as neuralgia, muscle pain, sensitivity to cold, and fatigue recovery.
The indoor bathing area includes a bubble bath in which streams of bubbles gently surround the body, providing a pleasant sensation and promoting circulation.
A dry sauna and cold-water bath are also available. Visitors can warm themselves in the hot spring, enjoy a refreshing sauna session, and cool down with Katashina’s clear water for a refreshing experience.
One of the distinctive features of Hanasaku-no-Yu is its hot-stone spa, which uses the natural mineral Kiyoseki, a rare stone found only in Katashina Village. The floor, walls, and ceiling are all covered with Kiyoseki, creating a unique environment.
The facility is designed to generate abundant negative ions and far-infrared radiation. The far-infrared effect gently warms the body from within and encourages comfortable sweating.
Compared with a high-temperature sauna, the hot-stone spa produces less of a feeling of stuffiness, allowing visitors to relax while warming their bodies. It is also promoted as a way to support relaxation, recovery from fatigue, and relief from sensitivity to cold.
Restaurant Hanasaku serves dishes prepared with local ingredients in a relaxed setting. Large windows overlook a natural garden, allowing guests to enjoy seasonal scenery while dining.
It is an ideal place to unwind and enjoy a leisurely meal after a relaxing bath.
The large lounge provides a comfortable place to rest after bathing and can also be used as a dining area during busy periods. In winter, kotatsu heated tables are installed, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere.
There are also spaces where guests can lie down and relax, as well as relaxation services designed to help visitors unwind both physically and mentally.
The farm produce market, which operates mainly from spring through autumn, offers fresh highland vegetables grown in Katashina Village.
The regional specialty shop carries a variety of local products, including processed foods made with hana-mame beans. These products are convenient for visitors looking for souvenirs and gifts that reflect the character of Katashina.
The facility also includes a gallery featuring works by print artist Shinbo Kogure, who has continued to depict the beauty of nature through printmaking.
Works depicting the landscapes of Oze and Katashina Village are displayed on a permanent basis, allowing visitors to combine a relaxing hot spring experience with an appreciation of local art.
A natural garden filled with seasonal flowers extends across the grounds, providing a pleasant place for a stroll or a relaxing break on the outdoor deck.
The scenic terrace offers views toward Mount Sukai. Visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee brewed with local spring water while taking in the peaceful mountain scenery.
The facility is generally open from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. During major holiday periods such as Golden Week, the Obon holiday season, and the New Year period, hours may be extended until 9:00 p.m.
The facility is generally closed on Fridays, except for public holidays and certain special periods.
By car, Hanasaku-no-Yu can be reached from the Numata Interchange on the Kan-Etsu Expressway via National Route 120 and local prefectural roads.
For visitors using public transportation, taxis from Numata Station and other nearby transport hubs are available.
Hana-no-Eki Katashina Hanasaku-no-Yu is a comprehensive relaxation destination where hot springs, hot-stone bathing, local cuisine, art, and nature come together.
Visitors can soak in the hot springs surrounded by seasonal flowers, sample local specialties, appreciate artwork inspired by the area’s natural landscapes, and simply enjoy a slower pace of life.
A visit during a trip to Oze or Marunuma Kogen provides an opportunity to refresh both body and mind while experiencing the natural beauty and warm hospitality of Katashina Village.