SPA & HOTEL Suishun Matsuiyamate Review: Bath Quality, Comfort, and What to Expect

About SPA & HOTEL Suishun Matsuiyamate

It is a well-known resort spa hotel that can be enjoyed both for day use and overnight stays. With a total of 17 different types of baths, the facilities are extensive and well-equipped.

In this review, I will honestly cover both the pros and cons from the perspective of a day-use visitor.

Facility Information

Bathing Fees

• Weekdays: ¥1,505
• Weekends & Holidays: ¥1,725

Rental Towel Fee

• ¥330

Onsen Hours

• 6:00 AM – 2:00 AM

Rating: ★★★⯨☆ (17 stars total)

Bath Variety & Quality　★★★★★

Both the indoor and outdoor bathing areas offer a wide variety of baths, including highly relaxing options such as carbonated baths and jet baths.

The hot spring water is rich in minerals, and visitors can expect benefits such as heat retention and skin-beautifying effects.

One of the standout features is the presence of a free-flowing (gensen kakenagashi) hot spring bath. This is a must-try for hot springs lovers, as very few hot spring facilities offer true free-flowing source baths. It is highly recommended.

My personal favorite is the Milk Ion Bath, a milky white bath with a comfortably lukewarm temperature, perfect for slow and deep relaxation.

Atmosphere & Authenticity　★★★★☆

The interior features a calm modern Japanese design, creating a relaxed and user-friendly atmosphere even for first-time visitors.
As the facility is relatively new, it does not have a strong sense of history. However, with features such as a free-flowing natural hot spring, it offers one of the most authentic onsen experiences in Kyoto.

The hot spring water is naturally brownish due to its mineral content, which enhances the feeling of soaking in a true hot spring rather than an ordinary bath.

Comfort　★★★☆☆

The changing rooms, bathing areas, and relaxation spaces are all spacious. While the bedrock bath (ganbanyoku) area and additional relaxation spaces require an extra fee, the overall facilities are very well equipped.

However, due to the large number of visitors, the bathing areas can become quite crowded. Some baths may be difficult to use during busy times, which can feel stressful.

For those visiting with the primary goal of quiet relaxation, this may be a disappointing aspect.

Accessibility for Tourists　★★★☆☆

It takes about 40–50 minutes from Kyoto Station, so the location cannot be described as particularly convenient. The surrounding area is mostly residential, with relatively few restaurants nearby.

However, the on-site dining options within the hot spring facility are extensive, making it easy and comfortable to enjoy both bathing and meals in one place.

Thanks to the well-equipped facilities inside the complex, it is a highly convenient and user-friendly hot spring overall.

Scenic Value / Surroundings　★★☆☆☆

It is located in a quiet residential area of Matsuiyamate, offering a calm and peaceful environment without the noise and crowds. This is not a hot spring where you come for dramatic mountain scenery or spectacular views.

Rather than sightseeing around the area or enjoying the surroundings, this facility is best suited for those whose main purpose is the onsen itself—people who want to relax, dine, and enjoy wellness and leisure services entirely within the facility.

FAQ

Q1. Is SPA & HOTEL Suishun Matsuiyamate a natural hot spring?

A.　Yes, it is a natural hot spring.

Q2. Is day-use bathing available?

A.　Both day-use and overnight stays are available.

Q3. Is there an outdoor bath?

A.　Yes, there is, and it is highly recommended.

Q4. Are there a sauna and a cold plunge bath?

A.　Yes, there is, and there are also chairs available for enjoying the fresh air.

Q5. Are guests with tattoos allowed to bathe?

No, guests with tattoos are not allowed to enter.

Q6. Can tourists and foreign visitors use the facility?

A.　Yes, it is available.

Q7. Are towels and amenities provided?

A.　Towels require an additional fee separate from the entrance fee, so it is recommended to bring your own. Body soap and shampoo are provided in the bathing area.

Q8. Who is this place recommended for?

A.　People who want to fully enjoy a hot spring experience.

Those who want to soak in an authentic onsen atmosphere.

Families who want to relax at an onsen together, including those planning to stay overnight.

Q9. Who might not find this place suitable?

A.　People who want to enjoy a quiet hot spring with fewer crowds.