Day 1

Yamaguchi Ube Airport

11:00 Nagato Yumoto Hot Spring Town

“Osoto Heaven,” a place brimming with attractions perfect for a leisurely stroll

As one of Yamaguchi Prefecture’s premier hot spring resorts, the inns and shops lining the Oshin River exude the charm of a traditional hot spring town. In recent years, the hot spring town has been revitalized through a collaborative project involving the local community, private sector, and public sector. Under the theme “Outdoor Paradise,” there are plenty of initiatives designed to make strolling a pleasure.
From the hot spring town’s parking lot, walk up the “Bamboo Grove Stairs”—lined with hundreds of bamboo stalks—and you’ll arrive at “On’yu Plaza.” This open space features expansive lawns, tables, and benches.The riverside terraces set directly on the water’s surface and the stepping stones leading to the opposite bank offer unique experiences made possible by the gentle current and shallow waters of the Otozumi River. The wide riverside walkway is lined with numerous benches, making it a convenient spot to take a break or enjoy a bite to eat while strolling.

11:15 On-yu

Start your journey at this famous hot spring, where the legend of “Kami-sue no Yu” lives on

With a history of approximately 600 years, this is the oldest hot spring in Yamaguchi Prefecture. It is a public bathhouse affectionately known as “God-Bestowed Hot Spring” because it was discovered by Zen Master Jōan of Daineiji Temple—a renowned temple of the Sōtō Zen school—following a divine revelation from the Sumiyoshi Daimyōjin deity.It was renovated in 2020 into a modern, single-story building.
Surprisingly, the water flowing from the bedrock at the back of the bath is fresh spring water straight from the source. Since On’yu is built directly above the spring’s source, the water bubbles up from the bottom of the bath and flows into it without coming into contact with the air.The bath is designed to be just the right size to allow you to enjoy the free-flowing spring water to the fullest. With a source temperature of 39 degrees, the water is lukewarm, allowing you to soak leisurely and feel warmth spreading from the core of your body. Here, you can savor the true luxury of a hot spring bath—simply enjoying the quality water in its purest form.

12:00 Yakitori Sakura Shokudo

Lunch featuring Nagato-style yakitori made with “Chōshū-dori” chicken

Nagato is known as the “City of Yakitori.” Sakura Shokudo is one of the few yakitori restaurants that serves lunch. Every morning, they skewer fresh, locally sourced “Choshu-dori” chicken and carefully grill it over charcoal—the authentic flavor passed down through generations is simply exquisite.The “Sakura Gohan” set meal, available only for lunch, features three skewers of yakitori along with sashimi, chilled tofu, and a variety of small side dishes. The juicy, flavorful yakitori and fresh local sashimi pair perfectly with prefectural white rice—you’re guaranteed to find it hard to put your chopsticks down.

1:00 p.m. Otozure-do

Head to the souvenir shop where Nagato’s local goods and information come together

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll along the “Bamboo Grove Stairs,” which lead from the Otozure River to the hot spring town’s parking lot. Nestled beside the stairs is a souvenir shop housed in a renovated traditional Japanese house that’s over 50 years old.Inside the tiled display case—designed to resemble a bathhouse—you’ll find retro-chic original goods. The selection includes tenugui hand towels and drawstring bags featuring the logos of Nagato Yumoto Hot Spring and Otozure-do—items you’ll want to take with you on your stroll.
The adjoining gallery displays works from “Hagi-yaki Fukagawa Kiln,” a local traditional craft. Hagi-yaki is a traditional craft that Yamaguchi Prefecture takes pride in, having long been cherished in the tea ceremony. Here, you can take your time admiring precious pieces from the Hagi-yaki Fukagawa Kiln, which was established as the official kiln of the Hagi Domain.

1:30 p.m. Cafe & Pottery Oto

Admire the Hagi-yaki Fukagawa Kiln pottery and take a break on the terrace

During your stroll, stop by a café and gallery along the Otozure River, housed in a 50-year-old renovated traditional Japanese house. The interior is adorned with works from the local traditional craft “Hagi-yaki Fukagawa Kiln.” The space exhibits and sells works by young artists who are shaping the future of this kiln, which boasts a history of approximately 360 years.The theme of the works is primarily “everyday tableware.” You’ll find a selection of items—such as coffee cups and plates—that add a touch of elegance to daily life.
The café’s recommended items are its homemade cakes. Two to three varieties are available daily, including the rich and aromatic “Chocolate Terrine” and “Cheesecake,” as well as “Seasonal Tarts” made with fresh, in-season ingredients. Café dishes are served on tableware created by resident artists, making it a pleasure to discover these unique pieces.

2:30 p.m. Hoshino Resorts KAI Nagato

Experience the elegance of samurai culture at an inn modeled after the “Feudal Lord’s Tea House Residence”

Situated at the foot of Akebono Bridge, which spans the Otozure River, the inn’s theme is inspired by the tea house residence where the feudal lord once resided during the Edo period. Traditional crafts such as “Hagi-yaki” pottery and “Tokuchi Washi” paper adorn the interior, and you can experience traditional culture by using the rare “Akama Inkstone.”From the renowned hot springs known as “Kamisu no Yu” to local delicacies from the mountains and the sea, visitors are greeted by a modern, refined elegance. The inn features the “Akebono Café,” open to the public, and the “Akebono Gate,” which provides easy access to the hot spring district from the inn.

KAI Signature Rooms: “Nagato Gosa no Ma (Japanese-Style Room)”

3:30 PM Akebono Café

Pick up Hoshino Resorts KAI Nagato’s original dorayaki and a special latte to go

At the on-site “Akebono Café,” you can purchase dorayaki carefully baked one by one. The “Yuzukichi” dorayaki—filled with candied “Yuzukichi,” a citrus fruit native to Yamaguchi Prefecture, and white bean paste—pairs perfectly with the refreshing flavor and gentle sweetness of the dough.We also recommend the “Special Latte,” which pairs perfectly with the dorayaki.

3:45 p.m. Kawadoko Terrace

Snack time on the riverside terrace overlooking the river

With dorayaki and drinks in hand, we headed to the “Kawadoko Terrace,” which juts out over the river. A spacious, open-air space with a refreshing river breeze awaits. Spend an elegant moment in this prime spot, where you can admire the beautiful scenery of the Otozure River throughout the four seasons.

4:30 p.m. KAI Cultural Discovery

“Sumi-asobi for Adults”: A Experience That Deepens Your Understanding of Yamaguchi Prefecture’s Rich Culture and Brings Peace to Your Mind

As part of “KAI Cultural Discovery,” a program that lets you experience the charms of each region, try “Ink Play for Adults.”Using ink ground on a “Akama inkstone”—a traditional craft of Yamaguchi Prefecture—you’ll write characters or draw pictures on fan-shaped sheets of washi paper. Ink ground on an Akama inkstone has a fine grain and offers exceptional color saturation and spreadability. Let yourself be soothed by the texture and aroma of grinding the ink, and let your brush dance freely as your imagination leads.

5:30 p.m. Dinner

Savor the “Kawara-yaki KAI Local Flavors” meal, featuring the rich flavors of Yamaguchi

Surrounded by the sea on three sides and blessed with fresh seafood throughout the four seasons, Yamaguchi Prefecture is a treasure trove of gourmet cuisine. Starting with thick, sweet squid as an appetizer, a succession of dishes that showcase seasonal ingredients—delightful to both the eye and the palate—are served one after another.Among these, the “Hōraku-mori” stands out with its striking, innovative design, featuring a wooden tub crafted by the prefecture’s sole barrel maker and Hagi-yaki pottery. The “Kawara-yaki,” inspired by the local specialty Kawara-soba, offers a dining experience unique to Hoshino Resorts KAI Nagato, where you can savor fugu grilled directly on a roof tile.

8:00 p.m. The Hot Spring Town at Night

Enjoy a leisurely evening stroll illuminated by the lights

After enjoying dinner, we set out for a nighttime stroll through the hot spring town, each holding a lantern placed at Akebono Gate. Everywhere—from the six bridges spanning the river to the “Bamboo Grove Stairs”—is bathed in a magical glow, creating a truly atmospheric hot spring experience.In particular, the “Bamboo Grove Stairs,” illuminated by the soft glow of paper lanterns, are a prime photo spot. With an atmosphere quite different from daytime, you’ll find yourself getting really into finding the perfect angle.
A must-see in the fall is the “Autumn Foliage Stairs,” which connect Ochaya Street to the hot spring town.The sight of crimson maple leaves standing out against the darkness of night is truly breathtaking. Events are held to coincide with the peak viewing season, and the area bustles with people enjoying Nagato’s nightlife and autumn foliage. The illuminations are automatically controlled and turn on at sunset. While designed to harmonize with natural light, seasonal lighting displays are also featured.

8:15 p.m. 365+1 BEER (Sanroku Roku Beer)

Indulge in a luxurious evening with freshly brewed craft beer

At Nagato’s first craft beer brewery, the “TAPROOM”—featuring a bar counter—is open from Friday through Sunday. If the timing is right, this is a spot you’ll want to visit in conjunction with the hot spring district’s illuminations.The building, which is about 60 years old, was once a pharmacy. Its photogenic interior—featuring a tobacco sales corner and neon signs from the former On-yu bathhouse—has become a hot topic.
The brewery’s signature lineup features 4 to 6 varieties at any given time, including Pale Ale, IPA, and Belgian White. The “Sanroku Rokku Pale Ale” has a fruity aroma; its subtle bitterness and smooth finish will bring a smile to your face. Why not spend an evening enjoying these exquisite beers, crafted with uncompromising dedication?

9:00 PM Public hot spring

Reset the fatigue of the day in a natural hot spring with free-flowing spring water

The indoor baths in the public hot spring area are divided into “lukewarm” and “hot” sections. In the lukewarm section, you can enjoy the Nagato Yumoto Onsen—known as “Kami-sue no Yu” (Divinely Bestowed Hot Spring)—as a direct flow from the source.This alkaline simple hot spring, with a pH of 9.9, has a creamy texture and feels as smooth as a facial toner on the skin. Renowned as a “beauty spring,” it’s the perfect way to soothe the fatigue of your first day.

Day 2

7:00 a.m. Kawadoko Terrace

Enjoy a refreshing stretch on the terrace with a pleasant river breeze

The next morning, cross the Akebono Bridge in front of the inn to the “Kawado Terrace” set up on the riverbank. The local exercise routine, “Iroha Nihoheto Swing,” involves stretching while imagining you’re writing the characters with a large brush. By using your entire body to “write” “Iroha Nihoheto,” your muscles will loosen up and your body will warm up.

7:30 a.m. Breakfast

A local breakfast to satisfy your post-workout hunger

Breakfast is a Japanese-style set meal packed with seafood. The white rice goes down a treat with a variety of regional delicacies, including akamoku—known for its chewy texture and resilience—squid shumai, and seasonal grilled fish.

9:00 a.m. Taineiji Temple

Take a morning walk through the quiet hot spring town and along the old pilgrimage path

After breakfast, take a walk to Daineiji Temple, a renowned Sōtō Zen temple that served as the setting for the discovery of the hot spring. By consciously “breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth” and walking with long strides in a rhythmic manner, you’ll aim to improve lung function and boost your immune system.As you proceed with a course map in hand, you’ll find Jizo statues enshrined here and there along the old pilgrimage path. Their gentle faces are truly soothing.

11:00 Departure from Hoshino Resorts KAI Nagato

11:30 Kawara Soba Yanagiya

Lunch: Yamaguchi Prefecture’s soul food, brimming with the spirit of travel

Across the river from the inn is “Daigo Nagaya,” a mixed-use property renovated from a wooden apartment building over 70 years old. On the first floor, a specialty shop for Yamaguchi Prefecture’s famous “kawara soba” flies the “Yanagiya” banner.Kawara soba is a local dish consisting of brown buckwheat noodles served on a heated roof tile, topped with shredded omelet, beef, green onions, and other ingredients, and enjoyed with warm broth. The striking visual impact as the dish arrives with a sizzling sound is sure to elicit an exclamation. “Yanagiya” uses carefully selected ingredients, such as eggs produced in the prefecture and green onions from Nagato City.The house-made broth is a specialty crafted to complement the rich umami and aroma of the brown buckwheat noodles. As you eat the plump noodles, the parts that have been in contact with the tile become crispy and caramelized. This contrast in textures is one of the true delights of Kawa-soba.

12:30 Cafe and Shop Tre

A relaxing moment at a café offering delicious food and a cozy atmosphere

After lunch, head up the stairs to the second floor. A café and shop—renowned for its owner-curated selection of products—welcomes visitors. The interior preserves the original earthen walls and pillars while incorporating hard materials like mortar and stainless steel. The result is a space that’s both sophisticated and warm.Outside the windows, you can enjoy the changing seasonal scenery of the Oshin River. Relaxing on Moroccan chairs or a couch sofa, you might just lose track of time.
The signature cake is a “cheesecake” delivered from “IMUSTAN,” a popular bakery in Fukuoka Prefecture. The accompanying sea salt is optional. It brings out the sweetness and umami of the cheese, and you can also enjoy the crisp texture of the salt. As befits a hot spring town, the selection of skincare and fragrance products is also worth noting.

1:30 PM Hagi-yaki Fukagawa Kiln: Tahara Tōbei Workshop

Search for captivating tableware at the Fukagawa Kiln, a Hagi-yaki pottery studio

One place you’ll definitely want to visit during your trip to Nagato City is the kiln of “Hagi-yaki Fukagawa Kiln,” a local traditional craft. Hagi-yaki is celebrated as “First Raku, Second Hagi, Third Karatsu” and has long been cherished by tea masters.Hagi-yaki Fukagawa Kiln was established in 1657 (the 3rd year of the Meireki era) as the official kiln of the Hagi Domain in what is now Sannose, Fukagawa Yumoto, Nagato City. With a history spanning approximately 360 years, five kilns are currently in operation.
At one of these kilns, the “Tahara Tōbei Workshop,” led by the current 13th-generation Tōbei, the artisans create works rich in originality while preserving tradition. Hagi-yaki is highly absorbent; as it is used over time, tea and other liquids seep into the fine cracks (kannuki) on the surface, causing the texture to change.Known as the “Seven Transformations of Hagi,” this process adds to the piece’s charm. It’s a masterpiece you’ll want to cherish for years to come as a memento of your trip.

2:30 p.m. Roadside Station Senza Kitchen

Take home the “delicious flavors” of Nagato City as souvenirs

A community property in Nagato City, stretching along the coast of the port town of Senzaki. The direct-sales shop offers a wealth of Nagato’s bounties—from fresh fish caught in nearby waters to local seasonal vegetables, prepared dishes, and processed foods—making it hard to choose just one souvenir.Particularly popular are products made with “Nagato Yuzukichi,” a specialty of Nagato City. While the fruit is in season in the fall, processed items such as juice and ponzu sauce are available year-round, and sweets like jellies and gelato are also top sellers.
If you’re thinking, “I want to try some fresh seafood and mountain produce right here!” head to the barbecue area (seat fee required), where you can grill and enjoy the ingredients you bought at the farmers’ market. The facility also features a Dining Area, a tourist information center, and the “Nagato Toy Museum,” making it a versatile destination.