About
Free foot bath at Alps Kaido Hirayu bus terminal with views of Mount Norikura. Photo: Okuhida Onsengo Tourism Association π
Hirayu Onsen is the oldest and largest hot spring village in the Okuhida Onsengo region of Gifu Prefecture, serving as a historic traveler rest stop and modern gateway to the Northern Japan Alps. Discovered in the 1560s by Takeda Shingen's troops according to legend, this mountain onsen village has evolved from a vital samurai rest stop into the primary transportation hub for accessing Kamikochi and other alpine destinations. The village offers free public foot baths (ashiyu), traditional ryokan accommodations, and serves as an ideal short rest stop for driving travelers exploring the route between Fujikawaguchiko and Takayama. π
Cultural & Historical Significance
Historical Discovery and Legend
Hirayu Onsen's discovery is rooted in a legendary tale from the Sengoku (Warring States) period around the 1560s. According to legend chronicled in Edo-period texts like the Hishu-shi (Records of Hida), forces of the powerful warlord Takeda Shingen were crossing treacherous mountain passes when soldiers collapsed from exhaustion and poisonous volcanic gases from Mt. Yakedake. A wise old white ape appeared and led the ailing soldiers to a spring of hot water gushing from the ground, where they bathed and were miraculously restored to health. π
The name "Hirayu" (εΉ³ζΉ―) derives from the concept of "peaceful" or "healing" water. In honor of this legend, the local Hirayu Shrine now enshrines the white ape as a guardian spirit of the onsen. The village became Japan's first officially designated national hot spring resort in 1964. π
Strategic Location and Evolution
For centuries, Hirayu's strategic location on mountain routes connecting Hida (modern-day Gifu) to Shinshu (Nagano) made it an essential post town (shukuba). During the Edo Period, feudal lords (daimyo) traveling to and from Edo (Tokyo) for their mandatory sankin-kΕtai service used Hirayu as a place to rest and recover from arduous mountain journeys. The healing waters were invaluable for soothing tired muscles and treating injuries suffered during travel. π
The onsen also served commoners, including merchants transporting goods and pilgrims on spiritual journeys, cementing Hirayu's identity not just as a hot spring but as a vital point of refuge and recovery deeply woven into the fabric of travel in feudal Japan.
Today, Hirayu Onsen maintains its historical role as a traveler's stop while serving as the primary transportation hub for ChΕ«bu-Sangaku National Park. The Hirayu Bus Terminal is the main transfer point for all visitors heading to Kamikochi, as private cars are banned from the alpine valley to preserve its pristine environment. π
Therapeutic Waters
With over 40 different natural hot spring sources, Hirayu boasts an incredible volume of naturally hot mineral-rich water. The spring waters are said to be effective at treating intestinal diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, neuralgia, sensitivity to cold, and skin diseases. π
Visiting Information
Access:
From Takayama: 22 miles (approximately 35 km), 35 minutes via Route 158. Head west from Takayama on National Route 158 through the Okuhida region. π
From Nagoya: Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway to Takayama IC, then Route 158. Total drive time approximately 3 hours. π
Winter Driving Note: The Okuhida area receives significant snowfall in winter, and roads can be slippery. Snow tires are strongly recommended during winter months. π
Parking:
Alps Kaido Hirayu (Main Facility):
- Large parking area: 20 large buses and 100 passenger vehicles
- Free parking
- Location: 628 Okuhidaonsengouhirayu, Takayamashi, Gifu Prefecture π
Alps Kaido Hirayu Bus Terminal & Facilities:
Operating Hours:
- Facility: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM (hours vary by season)
- Open daily (no regular holidays)
- Free foot bath: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM π
Facilities:
- 1st Floor: Souvenir shop, restaurant, bread atelier with fresh baked goods, free foot bath
- 2nd Floor: Large restaurant accommodating groups
- Air-conditioned waiting room
- Automated ticket machines (credit cards and QR codes accepted)
- Multilingual announcements (English and Chinese)
- Coin lockers
- Clean restrooms π
Contact: +81-578-89-2611
The Experience
Public Foot Baths (Ashiyu)
Alps Kaido Hirayu Ashiyu:
- Location: Behind the bus stop on the 1st floor of Alps Kaido Hirayu building
- Cost: Free
- Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (open all year, subject to seasonal changes)
- Features: Views of Mt. Norikura, tables provided for enjoying snacks like slow-boiled eggs or gelato while soaking
- Accessibility: 3-minute walk from bus terminal π
Hirayu Onsen Ashiyu:
- Location: 3-minute walk from bus terminal
- Cost: Free
- Features: Sheltered foot bath, ideal for relaxing while waiting for buses, can enjoy takeout foods like Hida beef skewers and soft serve ice cream π
Hirayu-no-mori Ashiyu:
- Location: Under the "Mori-no-todai" (Forest Lighthouse) landmark
- Cost: Free
- Hours: Available anytime (except during cleaning)
- Features: Community gathering spot in the heart of the village π
Public Bathing Facilities (Full Onsen Experience)
Hirayu-no-Yu (at Hirayu Minzoku-kan Folk Museum):
- Location: Next to Hirayu Folk Museum and Hirayu Shrine, 5-minute walk from bus terminal
- Cost: Suggested donation Β₯300
- Hours: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Features: Gender-separated outdoor baths, museum admission included, traditional gassho-style building
- Note: No shower facilities, rinse before entering π
Hirayu no Mori:
- Location: Central Hirayu
- Cost: Β₯500-700 for day visitors
- Features: Modern public bath facility with 16 different types of baths, indoor and outdoor options, spectacular mountain views
- Amenities: Provided cleansing foam, hair serum, and lotion in ladies' room
- Note: Bring your own towel and toiletries or purchase at cost π
Shopping & Local Products
The souvenir shop on the 1st floor offers local Hida crafts and traditional goods, Okuhida onsen cosmetics and bath products, regional food specialties including Hida beef products, traditional sweets and confections, and onsen-themed souvenirs. π
At the foot bath area, visitors can enjoy:
- Onsen Tamago (Hot Spring Eggs): Cooked to perfection in onsen water, highly recommended by visitors π
- Hida Beef Skewers: Premium wagyu beef grilled to order π
- Soft Serve Ice Cream: Local flavors including milk and seasonal varieties
- Fresh Baked Bread: From the on-site bread atelier
Nearby Walking Attractions
Hirayu Shrine:
- Distance: 6-minute walk from terminal
- Features: Enshrines the legendary white ape that discovered the hot springs
- Free admission, always open π
Hirayu Otaki Waterfall:
- Distance: 900m walk (20-30 minutes) on gentle slope
- Height: 64 meters (6 meters wide)
- Designation: One of Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls
- Winter Illumination: Magical nighttime illumination of frozen waterfall (December-February)
- Autumn Viewing: Spectacular with foliage backdrop in late October
- Free access π
Hirayu Minzokukan (Folk Museum):
- Distance: Adjacent to Hirayu Shrine, 5-minute walk
- Features: Traditional gassho-style architecture, displays of local history and culture
- Includes access to Hirayu-no-Yu public bath
- Suggested donation: Β₯300 π
Practical Visiting Tips
Seasonal Considerations for October 24, 2025:
Weather: Expected temperatures 8-15Β°C (46-59Β°F), cool mountain air, jacket recommended. Occasional rain showers possible. Excellent visibility for mountain views on clear days.
Crowds: Moderate to high tourist activity during autumn foliage peak. Popular with domestic tourists and tour groups. Foot baths can be busy mid-afternoon (2-4 PM). Consider visiting morning (9-11 AM) or late afternoon (4-5 PM) to avoid peak crowds.
Autumn Foliage: Surrounding Northern Alps display brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows. Spectacular views from outdoor foot baths. Nabedaira-Kogen Bridge: 150m long, 70m high, stunning foliage viewpoint, popular photo spot especially mid-October. π
Mountain Harvest Season: Local restaurants feature seasonal mountain vegetables (sansai), fresh autumn mushrooms, and seasonal kaiseki menus. π
Foot Bath Etiquette:
- Wash feet before entering (washing stations provided)
- Keep personal towel out of the bath water
- Don't put whole legs in, only feet up to calves
- Avoid splashing or disturbing other bathers
- Remain quiet and respectful
- Dry feet thoroughly before putting on socks π
What to Bring:
- Small towel for drying feet (can purchase at shops if forgotten)
- Clean socks to change into after foot bath
- Camera for scenic photography
- Light jacket for cool mountain temperatures
- Cash for purchases (credit cards accepted at terminal)
For Driving Visitors:
Practical Advice:
- Parking Strategy: Park at Alps Kaido Hirayu for easiest access to foot baths and facilities
- Timing: Allocate 30-45 minutes minimum for foot bath and refreshments
- Fuel: Gas stations available in village, good spot to refuel before mountain driving
- Restrooms: Clean, modern facilities at Alps Kaido Hirayu terminal
- Food Timing: If arriving around lunch (12-1 PM), restaurants can get busy; consider early or late meal
Route Integration:
- Coming from Fujikawaguchiko: Good mid-route rest stop, approximately 2-3 hours driving
- Continuing to Takayama: Final rest before destination (35 minutes remaining)
- Kamikochi Detour: Consider extending visit for 30-minute bus trip to famous alpine valley (major detour)
- Timing: Best visited during daylight hours (9 AM - 5 PM) when all facilities open
Photography Opportunities:
Best Photo Spots:
- Alps Kaido Hirayu Foot Bath: Mt. Norikura backdrop, capture foot bath culture
- Hirayu Otaki Waterfall: Classic waterfall shot with autumn foliage frame
- Village Streets: Traditional onsen architecture with mountain backdrop
- Hirayu Shrine: Traditional shrine architecture surrounded by fall colors
- Nabedaira-Kogen Bridge: Panoramic valley and mountain views with peak foliage
Location: View on Google Maps
Research sources: Official Okuhida Onsengo Tourism, Japan National Tourism Organization, Japan-Guide.com, Alps Kaido Hirayu Official, visitor reviews, cultural heritage documentation
Source: attractions/fujikawaguchiko-to-takayama-scenic-route/hirayu-onsen-village.md