Oosawayama Onsen Oosawakan

Oosawayama Onsen, tucked away in a verdant mountain village in Minamiuonuma in Niigata Prefecture, is said to have been discovered in 1630. Its smooth, slightly viscous bathing waters are known for softening the skin, leaving it silky smooth.

Oosawakan first opened some 40 years ago to allow more visitors to share the delights of these hot spring waters. Full-scale renovation of the facilities began in April 2024, and after more than a year of work, the inn reopened in June 2025. It has warm-toned lighting throughout, while the original pillars, beams, and hearth have been preserved, creating an atmosphere that seamlessly balances refinement with relaxation.

Minamiuonuma is famous as one of Japan’s leading rice-producing regions, and the inn’s modern Japanese-style decor includes numerous artworks inspired by ears of rice. The inn offers 12 guest rooms. Most are modern Japanese-Western style rooms, but traditional Japanese rooms that highlight heritage craftsmanship are also available, along with special rooms and a VIP suite. Both the special rooms and the VIP suite are equipped with private hot spring baths.

There are four baths where you can enjoy the waters of Oosawayama Onsen: two open-air baths and two rock baths with excellent views. Don’t forget to reserve a bath time upon arrival so that you can enjoy the hot springs in privacy. Along the corridor leading to the baths, you’ll also find a refrigerator stocked with free-of-charge, cool and refreshing popsicles.

For dinner, you can enjoy traditional multi-course cuisine prepared using local ingredients and incorporating regional specialties. A selection of Niigata’s renowned local sake is also available to complement your meal. Breakfast features Koshihikari rice from Minamiuonuma, considered the finest rice in Japan, served with a variety of flavorful side dishes.

The nationally renowned Joetsu Kokusai Ski Resort is located nearby, with the Osawa Slope, one of its courses, just 900 meters away. In winter, you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding, while in summer, you can spend the day at one of northern Japan’s largest water parks.

The newly renovated Oosawakan offers Niigata’s famous hot springs and the seasonal beauty of its mountain countryside, alongside traditional architecture enhanced with modern comforts. Don’t miss the opportunity to upgrade your trip to Japan with a stay at this exceptionally refined inn.

For groups of two or more guests coming by train, a shuttle service is available from Echigo-Yuzawa Station on the Joetsu Shinkansen and Osawa Station on the JR Joetsu Line. Please notify the inn of your arrival time in advance.

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