Onsen are known to have many healing properties, and is just one of many reasons they are so popular. Sulfur hot springs in particular are well known for the positive effects it can have on your skin. In the Myoban area of Beppu you can find Okamotoya onsen, a beautiful preserved inn from the Meiji era. Take some time off and treat your mind and skin at Okamotoya onsen!
Loved for generations
Okamotoya Onsen has a charming atmosphere that is owed to its over 110 year long history as an inn. Okamotoya was established in 1875, making it one of the oldest inns within the Myoban area. The building is made up of parts from the Meiji, Taisho and Showa era, which really makes you feel the love, work and time that has been put into the inn for generations.
As soon as you step foot into the reception you’ll be embraced by the warmth and charm of the traditional interior. The kind and welcoming staff will help show you the way to the onsen. Before you plan your visit, note that the onsen is not open for day use. Make sure to take off any accessory before you step into the water, as the sulfur can ruin your jewelry. As soon as you have finished changing you can go ahead and step into the shower.
One-of-a-kind soaps
When you are using the shower, make sure to take notice of the toiletries that are offered for free as part of the onsen experience. Myoban is famous for its natural bath salts and onsen products that are produced through the Yunohana production technique, which is completely unique to Beppu. At Okomotoya onsen you can try one-of-a-kind soaps that are guaranteed to leave your skin feeling smooth and refreshed. The onsen also has a small stand where you can buy some of their products and bring them home!
When you’re finished enjoying the refreshing and unique soaps and shampoos, you can start heading over to the bath. There’s two different onsen inside, a stone bath and an onsen made of wood. The bath made of wood is seated next to a big window space, providing you with a beautiful view as you soak and relax in the water. The water temperature is warm and comfortable, making it hard to want to get out.
Healing for soul and skin
The water at Okamotoya Onsen is a stunning celadon green, that is a trademark for the Myoban onsens. Not only is the water pleasing to the eye, it also has a high medicinal ability. If you’re seeking to heal sore muscles, fatigue, or dry skin, we recommend giving the stunning stone bath at Okamotoya onsen a try! The celadon green water contains sulfur which is a great natural detox for your skin. Not only does it make your skin soft, the mineral content of the sulfur spring is known to aid skin conditions like eczema, rashes, acne and psoriasis.
A view to behold
Though the onsen inside is holding its own quite well, the real star of the show is the open air bath with a gorgeous view of Myoban. As you walk down the stone path to the open air onsen, the stunning nature of Beppu unravels itself. You will also notice the tranquil sound of the water hitting the rocks, adding to the charm of the outside hot spring. The onsens are separated by gender, and the view on the men’s side is particularly a treat as you also get a view of a highway bridge!
After finishing your bath, you can explore more of the Myoban area. We recommend trying the onsen steamed pudding that you can find in restaurants only a couple of minutes away from the inn!
Treat yourself
Okamotoya onsen is truly a great place to stop by on your trip to Beppu. No matter if you want to experience the medicinal attributes of the sulfur spring water, or just want to treat yourself to a bit of luxurious me-time, you’re sure to feel relaxed and full of energy after trying their onsen. Visiting Okamotoya onsen is not only great for your skin, but also lets you experience a piece of history!
