Sukkama Genji-no-Yu Honest Review: Is This Japanese Spa Worth Visiting?

About Sukkama Genji-no-Yu

Opened in April 2022, this is a modern and beautifully maintained hot spring facility where visitors can relax all day. The garden, centered around a bamboo grove, creates a calm atmosphere, and the facility offers natural hot springs, saunas, and spacious relaxation areas.

Based on my personal experience using this facility, I will honestly review both the good points and the drawbacks.

Facility Information

Address 　View it on Google Maps here

Opening Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. (Last admission at 11:00 p.m.)

Admission Fee:

• Weekdays: ¥1,000
• Weekends & Holidays: ¥1,100

Rating: ★★★⯨☆ (17 stars total)

Bath Variety & Quality　★★★★★

This facility uses natural hot spring water, and the relatively mild water temperature makes it easy to enjoy even for first-time onsen visitors.

One of my personal recommendations is the deep bath with a depth of 120 cm. It allows you to enjoy the hot spring almost like a swimming pool, and the natural buoyancy helps your body relax and release tension, making it deeply soothing.

If I had to mention one downside, it would be that although the bathing area is spacious, the number of different baths is somewhat limited.

On the other hand, the sauna facilities are very well equipped, making this an excellent choice for sauna lovers.

Atmosphere & Authenticity　★★★★★

The interior makes generous use of wood, creating a calm atmosphere with a distinctly Japanese feel. In the outdoor bath area, bamboo groves and pine trees are planted, allowing guests to enjoy the sensation of soaking in a hot spring surrounded by a traditional Japanese garden.

Comfort　★★★★☆

The free relaxation area allows guests to lie down and rest, but considering the overall size of the facility, it is relatively small and does not feel very open or spacious.

For those who use the stone sauna (ganbanyoku) for an additional fee, separate relaxation spaces are available, including massage chairs and areas where guests can lie down comfortably. If you plan to spend the entire day here, it is recommended to use both the hot springs and the stone sauna for a more complete experience.

Stone Sauna Fee (additional):

• Weekdays: ¥800
• Weekends & Holidays: ¥900

Accessibility for Tourists　★★☆☆☆

Access to this hot spring facility is not very convenient. When traveling from Kyoto Station, it takes about one hour by train and bus.

On the positive side, the facility offers a good selection of dining options, making it convenient to enjoy lunch or dinner after your bath.

When visiting, it is best to plan for a half-day or full-day stay and fully relax, including having your meals at the on-site restaurant. This facility is not recommended for short visits.

Scenic Value / Surroundings　★☆☆☆☆

There are no major sightseeing spots in the surrounding area, so this facility is not suitable for stopping by during sightseeing. As it is located on flat land, the outdoor baths do not offer panoramic views.

While the scenery and surroundings are not a highlight, the quality of the hot springs is high, and overall, this facility is still highly recommended.

FAQ

Q1. Is Sukkama Genji-no-Yu a natural hot spring?

A.　Yes, it is a natural hot spring.

Q2. Is day-use bathing available?

A.　Yes, it is available for day-use only.

Q3. Is there an outdoor bath?

A.　Yes, there is a very large and open-air outdoor bath.

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

A.　Yes, there is. This facility is better known for its saunas and stone sauna (ganbanyoku) than for the hot springs themselves.

Q5. Are guests with tattoos allowed to bathe?

A.　No. Guests with tattoos are not allowed to use the bathing facilities.

Q6. Can tourists and foreign visitors use the facility?

A.　Yes, it is suitable. The water temperature is relatively mild, making it a good option even for international visitors who are not comfortable with very hot baths.

Q7. Are towels and amenities provided?

A.　Body soap and shampoo are provided in the bathing area and can be used freely. Towels are available for rental for ¥300.

Q8. Who is this place recommended for?

A.　Recommended for those who want to relax and spend a full day at a hot spring facility.

Q9. Who might not find this place suitable?

A.　People on their first trip to Kyoto with a busy travel schedule.