Shizuoka Prefecture is probably the most famous and most visited prefecture in Japan when it comes to hot springs spas, but quite a few visitors hesitate to visit them because they are misled into thinking that they uniformly expensive.
The roda sign indicating “Tashiro no Sato Spa/田代の郷温泉”, the original name of the spa where “Itawari No Yuu/伊太和里の湯” is located. Actually it very possible to visit hot springs spas in the day-time without having to stop for the night and at a very reasonable price.
One of them is located in the middle of the countryside in the northern part of Shimada City in Central Shizuoka Prefecture. The name of the Spa is “田代の郷温泉/Tashiro no Sato Onsen” but the actual bathouse is called “Itawari No Yuu/伊太和里の湯”.
One can reach it by car or by Shimada City-sponsored community bus (only 200 yen), which can be caught at the terminal of the Itawari No Yu Bus Line.
It was built only 6 years ago alongside a popular retirement home inside a small park, the whole place is powered by solar panels.
The place is fully equipped for all visitors including physically impaired bathers.
But keep in mind that visitors bearing tattoos, be they real or stickers, are not welcome, and neither are pets.
Now, do remember not to make the same mistake I made; as this Onsen is sponsored by the City the service is minimal. DO NOT FORGET TO BRING YOUR OWN TOWEL! If you do you can buy a small one for 300 yen inside.
Simple admission to the bath fees are on the sign above. The first line is for single tickets for adults, primary school students and senior citizens. The price below are for a set of 11 tickets.
The lobby and small souvenir shop!
The restaurant but bare in mind you are not allowed to bring in food or drinks from outside.
Drinks including alcohol can be bought on site!
If you wish to take a meal take a good look at the pictures describing the reasonably-priced rustic food.
The recommendations of the day.
The dragon’s choice: sashimi and seafood bowl set.
My choice: tempura bowl set.
The lunch sets once again introduced in order of their popularity.
Buy your meal using the automatic ticket vending machine!
You can choose your seat at a table or on a tatami floor.
You can even choose a table under the veranda outside alongside a Japanese garden!
My lunch set.
Tempura bowl.
Quite good actually with prawns, fish and vegetables.
The Dragon’s Lunch set.
Typical seafood dish in Shizuoka Prefecture.
Quite satisfying to eat this up in the mountains.
Disabled facilities.
The entrance to the male public baths and outdoor baths.
The outdoor male baths.
Free rest armchairs (some massage chairs are available for a fee).
Although we did first have a bath in the public facilities we wanted to relax in privacy so booked (booking compulsory by phone) a private room with private bath!
A family of five can fit in, perfect for a couple.
Fully equipped!
With its own little private garden.
Bathtub view from the garden.
Don’t forget to wash yourself first!
Take the wooden covers off the bath.
Take a dip! Don’t worry, the bathtub will fill up automatically, Japanese hi-tech!
Equipment for physically-impaired bathers is provided.
Washroom equipped for any needs.
Tattoos or fake tattoos are not allowed.
