By かすみのミニミニ大作戦

This captivating video takes viewers to Amagase Onsen Yakushiyu (天ヶ瀬温泉 薬師湯), a unique open-air hot spring situated along the riverside in Hita City, Oita Prefecture. Known for its raw and traditional atmosphere, the bath is especially famous for its open visibility — privacy barriers are minimal, offering an unusual and boldly cultural onsen experience.

The host experiences the bath firsthand, highlighting the mingling of natural beauty and the long-standing tradition of mixed-gender bathing (混浴), which remains a rarity today. The onsen's location next to a flowing river enhances its rustic charm, where geothermal waters emerge naturally and the feeling of traditional Japan is ever-present.

Amagase Onsen is part of the broader Hita City, an area known for its historical charm, sake breweries, and old merchant town ambiance. Yakushiyu is one of several communal baths in Amagase, often frequented by locals and onsen enthusiasts alike seeking an unfiltered thermal spa encounter away from the commercialized mainstream resorts.

The video provides insights into Japanese hot spring culture while also serving as a travel guide for those curious about more traditional and adventurous onsen experiences. Whether you're planning a trip to Oita or are simply a fan of Japanese bathing culture, this look into Yakushiyu will pique your interest.