First of all, Fufu no Yu is a truly charming and outstanding hot spring, and one of the most iconic hot spring facilities in Kyoto. Located near the Arashiyama bamboo grove and the UNESCO World Heritage site Tenryu-ji Temple, it enjoys an excellent and convenient location.
I have personally visited many times, and it is without a doubt one of the hot springs I highly recommend in Kyoto.
However, Japanese hot springs and sento have unique cultural aspects. For example, some people may feel uncomfortable bathing naked with others.
With this in mind, this article explains who Fufu no Yu may not be suitable for, based on differences in values and cultural expectations.
Click here for our recommended guided tours in Kyoto ↓
Conclusion: Who Fufu no Yu Is Not Suitable For
Let me start with the conclusion.
Fufu no Yu may not be the best choice for people who fall into the following categories:
- people with tattoos
- Those who feel uncomfortable bathing naked with others
- Couples or married partners who want to bathe together
Based on my personal experience of visiting Fufu no Yu many times, I will explain why it may not be suitable for these people.
Why It May Not Be Suitable: Reasons Based on Personal Experience
people with tattoos
Unfortunately, people with tattoos are not allowed to bathe, regardless of the size of the tattoo. The same rule applies to temporary tattoo stickers.
Some visitors may feel uncomfortable or wonder, “Why are people with tattoos not allowed to enter?” However, historically in Japan, tattoos have been associated with organized crime groups. Because of this history, many Japanese people worry that if tattoos were freely permitted, it could also allow members of such groups to use the facilities.
This policy is rooted in historical and cultural concerns rather than personal discrimination.
People Who Feel Uncomfortable Bathing Naked with Others
At Fufu no Yu, bathing is separated by gender, and guests share the same bath nude with others of the same gender.
This is not unique to Fufu no Yu—most hot springs in Japan follow the same practice.
If you feel uncomfortable bathing nude, consider using a private bath or staying at a hotel with a private open-air bath in the guest room.
Couples or Married Partners Who Want to Bathe Together
At Fufu no Yu, bathing is separated by gender, so couples and married partners cannot bathe together.
This is not unique to Fufu no Yu—most hot spring facilities in Japan also have gender-separated baths.
However, Fufu no Yu has shared spaces such as a relaxation area and a restaurant, so couples and married partners can still enjoy their time together outside the baths.
Click here for our recommended guided tours in Kyoto ↓
Who Fufu no Yu Is Suitable For
If none of the points mentioned above apply to you, your experience at Fufu no Yu is likely to be highly satisfying.
If I were to recommend just one hot spring in Kyoto, Fufu no Yu would be my top choice without hesitation.
Summary
To be clear, Fufu no Yu is by no means a “bad” facility. On the contrary, it can easily be considered one of the best hot spring experiences in Kyoto.
At the same time, knowing in advance whether it matches your own preferences and goals can make your hot spring or sento experience in Kyoto much more satisfying.
We hope this article helps you choose the bathing spot that’s right for you.
コメント