Enjoyable for All Ages! Top 7 Sightseeing Spots in Yunogo Onsen and Nearby Areas

Nestled in Mimasaka City, Okayama Prefecture, Yunogo Onsen is a historically rich hot spring that traces its roots back to the Heian period, over 1,200 years ago. Together with Okutsu Onsen in Tomata County and Yubara Onsen in Maniwa City, it forms the renowned "Mimasaka Three Hot Springs." While once beloved as a therapeutic retreat, Yunogo Onsen has evolved into a vibrant destination designed for everyone—from children to adults. In recent years, the area has embraced its identity as a "toy town," making significant efforts to create a family-friendly atmosphere packed with attractions for kids. With its variety of enjoyable facilities and activities, Yunogo Onsen has something to offer visitors of all ages! To help you plan your visit, we’ve highlighted seven must-see attractions in and around Yunogo Onsen.

1. Yunogo Sagi Onsenkan

Yunogo Onsen, also known as "Sagi no Yu," earned its name from the discovery of the spring while watching a white heron tending to its wounds. The historical "Yunogo Sagi Onsenkan," built during the Meiji era, preserves the legacy of this healing onsen. Popular as a therapeutic hot spring, it also offers day-use bathing options.

For those wanting to immerse themselves in the full onsen experience, "Dynamic Bath" (Dō no Yu) is recommended. It features a large cypress bath, three types of jet baths, a dry sauna, and an open-air bath with waterfall and stream designs for an added touch of nature. For a relaxing experience, "Calm Bath" (Sei no Yu) is perfect. It includes a large bath, open-air bath, a mist sauna loved by women, a mystical cave bath, and reclining baths for gentle, full-body warming.

"Dō no Yu" and "Sei no Yu" alternate between genders, so be sure to check the website if you have a preferred bath in mind. Visitors can also enjoy the spacious second-floor hall for a restful break. Not only is food allowed in the hall, but delivery services are also available.

2. Pocket Park Fureai no Yu

"Pocket Park Fureai no Yu" is a free footbath facility established in 2007. Its unique tub is modeled after the footprint of "Sambu no Tarō," a legendary giant from the Mimasaka region. The water temperature is set at a comfortable 38°C. This is a great spot for those on a short day trip, as all you need is a towel to enjoy the footbath. Beloved by locals, it serves as a cozy gathering place for relaxation.

3. Daisen Outlook

Located about a 5-minute drive uphill from Yunogo Onsen town, the "Daisen Outlook" is a popular scenic spot. From the observatory, you can enjoy views of the Yunogo Onsen town, Mount Ushiro (the highest peak in Okayama Prefecture), Mount Nagi, and the Yoshino River. At night, the spot becomes lively with visitors enjoying its reputation as a nightscape viewing spot.

The Daisen Outlook offers various picturesque scenes, but it is especially recommended to visit during the summer season (mid-June to mid-July). The approximately 2.5 km mountain path to the summit is adorned with around 3,000 hydrangea plants, captivating all who visit. From late autumn to winter, on clear mornings (around 6 AM to 8 AM), a stunning sea of clouds spreads across the area—an experience not to be missed.

4. Valentine Park Sakuto

"Valentine Park Sakuto" is a multipurpose park themed around love. In 2007, it became the first "Lovers’ Sanctuary" recognized in Okayama Prefecture. The park's symbol, the "Fountain of Love," features a statue based on the work of French artist Raymond Peynet. Visitors can also enjoy his artwork at the Sakuto Museum of Art, located within the park.

The park is filled with attractions, including the "Sakuto Tower" with its scenic balcony, the "Sakuto Valentine Hotel," popular for its one-group-per-day wedding packages, and the "Sakuto B&G Marine Center," where visitors can enjoy indoor swimming and tennis. In December, the park is illuminated, creating an even more romantic atmosphere. It's a must-visit spot for couples.

5. Yunogo Onsen Railway Model Museum & Retro Toy Museum

A must-visit spot for families with children is the Yunogo Onsen Railway Model Museum & Retro Toy Museum.

The museum is divided into two sections: the "Railway Model Museum" and the "Retro Toy Museum." Upon entering the "Railway Model Museum," you’ll find a massive diorama of the Yunogo Onsen town, recreated using railway models.
By renting tracks and train cars, you can even run the trains yourself! This experience will undoubtedly excite not just kids who love trains but also adults. The faithful reproduction of Yunogo Onsen town’s streets offers moments of delight, such as recognizing "the place you just passed by!"

At the "Retro Toy Museum," you’ll discover a collection of toys donated by railway enthusiasts from all over Japan. The display also includes nostalgic Showa-era household items and comic magazines, sure to captivate older visitors with a sense of nostalgia. Share the charm of toys from the past with your whole family and enjoy a delightful time together.

6. Takayama Shōwa-kan Museum

Takayama Shōwa-kan Museum is a tourist spot where you can experience the charm of Japan’s nostalgic Showa era.
The museum showcases over 13,000 items, including mid-Showa-era household goods, toys, and electrical appliances, all densely arranged within the space. Life-size recreations of a barber shop and a school classroom bring the period to life as if stepping into the past. One standout exhibit is an automatic vending machine, said to be the oldest operational one. Though few people remember its active days, it’s certainly worth a look.

7. Glass Studio TooS

Create cherished memories at Yunogo Onsen and take home a unique souvenir with original handmade glassworks. At "Glass Studio TooS," you can participate in glass-making experiences and glass-blowing workshops.
The instructors provide one-on-one guidance, ensuring that even beginners can enjoy the process with confidence. The activity takes just about 20 minutes, making it very convenient.
You’ll shape the glass by gently blowing into a molten ball heated to approximately 1,200°C. The base glass is clear, but you can opt to add powdered colored glass for a custom touch. Create your one-of-a-kind glassware as a special memento of your visit to Yunogo Onsen.
Finished pieces are available for pickup starting the next day or can be shipped for an additional fee. Children aged seven and older can participate on their own, making it an excellent choice for summer vacation projects. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended to guarantee your spot.

◎ Summary

Yunogo Onsen offers enjoyment for visitors of all ages, from children to seniors. It’s perfect for family trips, dates, girls’ getaways, or even workplace outings. You can relax in the onsen, admire stunning scenery, or explore toy-themed attractions. Beyond the spots introduced here, Yunogo Onsen features unique highlights like rice field art with creative designs and farms where you can pick seasonal fruits. Plan your visit around these activities for an unforgettable experience!