Saginoyu Onsen

Saginoyu Onsen is a hot spring that gushes out on the left bank of the Iinashi River that flows into Nakaumi. The temperature of the hot spring is 40 to 60°C and contains weak radiation, sodium, calcium-chloride, and sulfate. The origin of the name of the hot spring area comes from the legend that a white heron swooped down in this area during the Jinki era (724-729) and healed the wounds on its feet with the hot spring water. This area is still a rural area that stretches along the Iinashi River, showing a quiet appearance. You can also see the ruins of Tomita Castle slightly upstream of the Iinashi River. During the Warring States period, when the Amago clan was based in Tomita Castle, it flourished as a 'Gotenyu', but after that, the location of the hot spring became unknown due to the flooding of the Iinashi River. It was rediscovered in 1909, and today many people visit from inside and outside the prefecture. The entire hot spring area is designated as Shimizu Gassan Prefectural Natural Park. The Adachi Museum of Art is located in the hot spring area, and mainly features modern Japanese paintings, including paintings by famous artists such as Taikan Yokoyama, Shiho Sakakibara, Tessai Toyooka, Seiho Takeuchi, and Kansetsu Hashimoto. Many of his works are also on display. The museum's 13,000 tsubo Japanese garden harmonizes with the surrounding scenery, and the wonderful seasonal changes of the atmosphere quietly heal the hearts of visitors. In addition, at the Yasugibushi Engeikan, there are daily performances of authentic folk songs and dances of Yasugibushi. There is also a restaurant where you can enjoy dishes made with loach from Yasugi.