Moving forward into the future, Nagato Yumoto Onsen Town has invested strongly into having an ambiance and environment where visitors can enjoy a restful, peaceful time that evokes the traditions and history of the past to experience a quintessential Japanese stay.

One’s journey will probably start from the town’s parking lot where steps surrounded by hundreds of bamboo trees lead to not only the iconic Onto Public Onsen but the riverside itself where one can skip along the many stepping stones located in the river to reach either side.

Walk the local promenade along the Otozure river where one can appreciate the stunning Sakura in spring by Onto-dori, the changing of the autumn leaves in fall or simply admire the town’s natural beauty from the various river terrace benches and tables dotted throughout. Spend time on the popular Kawadoko River Terrace seats right in the town’s river where several of the onsen ryokans offer delightful experiences and meals. Meander across the iconic six bridges and if your feet are feeling a bit tired, stop and enjoy a soak in the town’s two free footbaths (one on the promenade, one in the park by the river). In winter, the Yuzukichi fruit is added to the onsen foot-baths to bring in the solstice.

Roughly 15 mins walk from Onto, take the time to visit Taineiji Temple, one of the most famous temples of the Soto-shu (a traditional branch of Japanese zen Buddhism) which is also the final resting place of the Ouchi Clan who were responsible for bringing the old Nagato (Yamaguchi prefecture was combined from two ancient provinces, Nagato & Suō) area much wealth. Within the grounds also lie Nagato Toyokawa Inari shrine which is especially picturesque during Spring (with cherry blossoms) and Autumn (changing koyo leaves). If one approaches the temple grounds from the old ancient pathways, one will find on this quiet mountain road, a path lined with many ancient Jizo statues.