Note: Due to the Noto Peninsula Earthquake that occurred on January 1, 2024, “Wakura Onsen” has suffered significant damage, and 18 out of the 21 inns are currently closed. (As of September 3) Please check the official website for the latest information.
Official Website: https://www.wakura.or.jp/
Overview of “Wakura Onsen”
“Wakura Onsen” is a historic hot spring resort located in Wakura Town, Nanao City, Ishikawa Prefecture. Situated on the eastern side of the Noto Peninsula, it spreads along the southern coast of Nanao Bay. This hot spring area is lined with numerous ryokan (Japanese-style inns) and hotels, making it very popular among tourists. Particularly, the atmosphere of the hot spring town allows visitors to spend a relaxing time.
“Wakura Onsen” has a long history dating back to the Heian period and continues to be loved by many people today.
Features of “Wakura Onsen”
The spring quality of “Wakura Onsen” is a sodium-calcium chloride spring with a weak alkaline nature. This hot spring is said to be effective for neuralgia, joint pain, and lower back pain. The water is colorless and transparent but has a high salt content, making it very warming.
At “Wakura Onsen,” there are many accommodation facilities that are members of the “Wakura Onsen Ryokan Cooperative Association.” Famous ryokan include “Kagaya” and “Hotel Kaibo.”
Furthermore, various events are held throughout the year at “Wakura Onsen,” such as fireworks festivals in April and August, and the “Noto Yosakoi Festival” on the second weekend of June.
Tourist Information and Access
The surrounding area of “Wakura Onsen” has many tourist spots worth visiting.
For example, at “Wakura Onsen Yu-Ashikari Park,” you can enjoy a foot bath, and at the “Tsujiguchi Hiroaki Museum,” you can appreciate works by the famous local patissier.
There are various ways to access “Wakura Onsen”:
- Train: The nearest station is “Wakura Onsen Station” on the JR Nanao Line and Noto Railway Nanao Line. It takes 5 minutes by car or about 25 minutes on foot from the station to the hot spring town.
- Bus: “Hokutetsu Noto Bus” and “Notojima Kotsu” operate services, and it is a 5-minute walk from the “Wakura Onsen Bus Terminal.”
- Car: From the “Wakura IC” on the Noto-Toyo Expressway, it takes about 5 minutes via Ishikawa Prefectural Route 47.
Nearby, you can also enjoy tourist spots such as “Notojima” and “Notojima Bridge,” making it possible to explore the entire Noto Peninsula.
