Shakushi-yama Spring Water Fudo-yu (Yamanashi Prefecture) Complete Guide｜Thoroughly Explaining the Charm of Sacred Water and Therapeutic Hot Spring Bathing in a Hidden Paradise
Nestled at an elevation of approximately 900 meters on the mid-slope of Shakushi-yama in Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture, “Ryokan Reisui Fudo-yu” is a hidden therapeutic hot spring resort renowned since ancient times for its exceptional effectiveness against skin diseases. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, in the deep mountains, the alternating warm and cold bathing using Shakushi-yama’s spring water and quiet moments continue to heal the body and mind of all who visit.
This article provides a comprehensive introduction to the charm of this region’s oldest thermal spa, from the history and efficacy of Fudo-yu, to specific bathing methods, access, fees, nearby water collection spots, and how to combine it with Shakushi-yama hiking.
Fudo-yu Explained｜A Therapeutic Hot Spring Resort Born from Shakushi-yama’s Blessings
History and Origins
Fudo-yu is one of the most historically significant therapeutic hot spring resorts in the Fujiyoshida area, utilizing sacred spring water that emerges from the mid-slope of Shakushi-yama. Its origins are ancient, and locally it has been carefully preserved through generations as “sacred water that cures all ailments.” Within the facility stands a shrine where Fudo-Myoo (Acalanatha) is enshrined, and it is said that the name “Fudo-yu” was given because this water with miraculous efficacy is believed to receive the protection of Fudo-Myoo.
Location and Environment
Located at what can truly be called a hidden paradise—about 3 kilometers up a mountain road by car from the Daimyoken district in Fujiyoshida City—on the mid-slope of Shakushi-yama (elevation 1,598 meters). The surroundings are enveloped in rich nature, and from the bathhouse windows unfolds a leisurely view overlooking a small stream and the surrounding mountains.
At approximately 16 minutes by car from Fujiyoshida Station on the Fujikyu Railway, about 20 minutes from the Kawaguchiko Interchange on the Chuo Expressway, and about 10 minutes from the Fujiyoshida Nishi-Yamanakako Smart Interchange, it is accessible as a day trip from the city center, yet upon arrival, you find yourself enveloped in a world of tranquility quite different from your everyday life.
Characteristics of Shakushi-yama Spring Water and Its Value as Sacred Water
Water Quality and Components
The water used at Fudo-yu is natural spring water filtered through the geological layers of Shakushi-yama over many years. This water is extremely pure, and it is known locally for its remarkable preservation ability, with people saying “it doesn’t spoil even after a month.” With excellent mineral balance, it is soft water yet contains an appropriate amount of minerals, making it suitable for drinking as well.
Traditions of Sacred Water
Since ancient times believed to cure all ailments, it has become particularly renowned for its effectiveness against skin diseases, drawing many people from distant places daily. Before scientific analysis, this water’s efficacy was recognized empirically, and for the region’s people, it serves as an object of faith—functioning as a place of spiritual healing that transcends being merely a thermal spa facility.
Efficacy of Fudo-yu｜Effects on Skin Diseases and Actual Therapeutic Bathing
Primary Efficacies
Fudo-yu is particularly known for its effects on the following conditions:
- Skin diseases in general：Atopic dermatitis, eczema, contact dermatitis, psoriasis, etc.
- Chronic skin troubles：Stubborn skin inflammation and itching that won’t heal
- Other symptoms：Neuralgia, muscular pain, joint pain, poor circulation, fatigue recovery
Indeed, there are many accounts of people suffering from atopic dermatitis experiencing symptom improvement after a few days of thermal bathing.
Method of Alternating Warm and Cold Bathing
Bathing at Fudo-yu is based on alternating warm and cold bathing, which is considered the most effective bathing method for therapeutic purposes. The procedure is as follows:
- Warm bathing：Immerse in the warm bath for approximately 3-5 minutes
- Cold water bathing：Immerse in a cold bath using Shakushi-yama’s spring water directly for 1-2 minutes
- Rest：Dry off and rest for approximately 5-10 minutes
- Repeat：Repeat this process 3-5 times
Through this alternating warm and cold bathing, blood circulation is promoted, metabolism becomes more active, and natural healing power is enhanced. Basically, staying overnight for at least one or two nights, repeating this bathing method morning and evening multiple times, yields higher expected effects.
Points to Keep in Mind for Therapeutic Bathing
To maximize effectiveness, the following points are important:
- Consistency：Effects appear more readily when bathing continuously for several days rather than just once
- Avoid overexertion：If cold water bathing is difficult, don’t force it and gradually acclimate
- Hydration：Don’t forget to drink water before and after bathing
- Rest：Take it easy after bathing and avoid strenuous exercise
Facility Information and Usage Guide
Basic Information
Facility Name：Ryokan Reisui Fudo-yu
Address：4567 Daimyoken, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Phone Number：Please confirm with official information beforehand
Business Hours：Day-use bathing approximately 9:00-15:00 (confirmation required)
Fee Structure
Fudo-yu’s fees are as follows (as of 2024):
Day-use Bathing
- Adults：Approximately 1,000 yen
- Alternating warm and cold bathing is possible with bathing only
- Bring your own towels (may be provided—confirmation required)
Overnight Stay
- Room only：Approximately 5,000-7,000 yen
- With two meals：Approximately 8,000-10,000 yen
- Long-term stays for therapeutic purposes are negotiable
Water Collection
- Water collection area use：1,000 yen (bathing fee included)
- Using water collection only charges the same fee, so combining with bathing is economical
※Fees may change; please confirm with the official website or by phone before visiting.
Facility Characteristics
Fudo-yu is a simple thermal spa ryokan focused on therapeutic bathing. There are no luxurious facilities or entertainment amenities, but this simplicity is precisely the charm of Fudo-yu. Far from urban hustle and bustle, you can spend quiet time in nature facing yourself, with the old-fashioned atmosphere of a traditional thermal spa preserved vividly.
Two bathtubs are prepared—one for warm bathing and one for cold water bathing. The cold water bathing tub has Shakushi-yama’s spring water drawn directly into it. Even in summer, it remains pleasantly cold, and the temperature difference from the warm bath provides a welcome stimulus.
Access Methods｜The Path to a Hidden Paradise
By Car
Car access to Fudo-yu is most convenient:
Using the Chuo Expressway
- Approximately 20 minutes from the Kawaguchiko Interchange
- Approximately 10 minutes from the Fujiyoshida Nishi-Yamanakako Smart Interchange
Directions
- From Fujiyoshida city, head north on National Route 138
- At the Daimyoken district, turn toward the mountain side (directional signs available)
- Drive up the mountain road for approximately 3 kilometers
The mountain road is paved but has many curves and narrow sections, so careful driving is necessary. Winter brings the possibility of snow and ice, so studless tires or chains are recommended.
By Public Transportation
Train and Taxi
- Get off at “Fujisan Station” or “Fujiyoshida Station” on the Fujikyu Railway
- From the station, approximately 15-20 minutes by taxi
Access by public transportation alone is difficult, making taxi use the practical option. If making an overnight reservation beforehand, it’s worth checking whether shuttle service is available.
Fudo-yu as a Water Collection Spot
How to Use the Water Collection Area
Fudo-yu has a water collection area where you can gather Shakushi-yama’s spring water. This water comes from the same source used in Fudo-yu’s bathhouses and is suitable for drinking.
Usage Fee：1,000 yen (bathing fee included)
Items to Bring：Containers for water (water cans, plastic bottles, etc.)
Water collection only is charged the same as the bathing set fee, so combining with the alternating warm and cold bathing experience is recommended. Many repeat visitors travel periodically from distant places to collect water, testament to this water’s value.
Nearby Water Collection Spots
Near Fudo-yu, there are other places to collect Shakushi-yama’s spring water:
Daimyoken Water Collection Area
- Located along the mountain road toward Fudo-yu
- Previously free to use, but now has fencing in place
- According to locals, “the water source is Shakushi-yama, the same water as Fudo-yu”
Fujiyoshida City also proposes a course called “Drink Fujisan’s Water! A Journey Through Spring Water Sites,” with the route from the Daimyoken water collection area to Fudo-yu becoming a popular course for experiencing the area’s water blessings.
Combining Shakushi-yama Hiking with Fudo-yu
The Charm of Shakushi-yama
Shakushi-yama (elevation 1,598 meters) is popular among hikers for the close-up views of Mount Fuji it offers. The summit provides a 360-degree panorama, where not only Mount Fuji but also the Southern Alps, the Yatsugatake Range, and the Chichibu Mountains can be viewed at once. Near the summit stands a “Heaven’s Bell” that visitors ring while taking in the spectacular views.
Recommended Hiking Course
Round-trip Course Starting from Fudo-yu
- Depart Fudo-yu（around 9:00）
- Via Takakura-yama（elevation 1,304 meters）
- Arrive at Shakushi-yama Summit（elevation 1,598 meters）（around 12:00）
- Descend via forest road
- Arrive back at Fudo-yu（around 15:00）
- Bathe and stay overnight
The total time is approximately 6 hours, an intermediate-level course. Being able to rinse off at Fudo-yu after descending is the greatest appeal, and many plan this route combining hiking with lodging.
Selected in “100 Yamanashi Hiking Courses,” the recommended one-day plan is “9:00 Depart Fudo-yu → Shakushi-yama Hike → 15:00 Descend → Fudo-yu Overnight Stay.”
Bathing Effects After Mountain Climbing
Caring for muscles tired from climbing through alternating warm and cold bathing promotes fatigue recovery. The location where you can bathe immediately after descending is particularly appealing to climbers. After rinsing off the sweat and feeling refreshed, staying overnight and resting thoroughly is reported to alleviate next-day muscle soreness.
Tourism and Dining Information Around Fudo-yu
Fujiyoshida’s Famous “Yoshida Udon”
After descending from Fudo-yu, you can enjoy Fujiyoshida’s signature “Yoshida Udon” in the city center. Characterized by firm noodles and ingredients like cabbage and horse meat, it’s a cherished soul food loved locally. With over 50 udon restaurants in the city, each offers its own distinctive flavor.
Combining with Mount Fuji Tourism
Fujiyoshida City is also a base for Mount Fuji sightseeing:
- Kitaguchi Hongu Sengen Shrine：A historic shrine serving as the starting point for Mount Fuji climbing
- Fuji-Q Highland：An amusement park famous for thrilling rides
- Mount Fuji World Heritage Center：A facility to learn about Mount Fuji’s history and culture
- Oshino Hakkai：Mystical ponds where Mount Fuji’s seepage water emerges
Combining these tourist attractions with Fudo-yu allows you to enjoy a fulfilling trip through the Mount Fuji area.
Precautions and Advice for Visiting
Clothing and Items to Bring
- Towels and Change of Clothes：Bring your own as a basic rule (check if the facility provides them)
- Drinking Water：For hydration before and after bathing
- Warm Jacket：As the facility is in the mountains, temperatures may be lower than in the city depending on season
- For Those Uncertain About Driving：Consider using a taxi if you’re uncomfortable with mountain driving
Reservations
Day-use bathing generally doesn’t require reservations, but overnight stays must be booked in advance. Especially on weekends and holidays, congestion may occur, so early booking is recommended. Also, winter may bring changes in business hours or possibility of temporary closure due to bad weather, so it’s reassuring to confirm by phone before visiting.
Winter Visits
During winter, snow may accumulate, and careful mountain road driving is necessary. Studless tires are essential, and carrying chains is also recommended. Conversely, bathing in a snowy landscape is extraordinary, and the contrast between the cold outside air and warm water feels more vivid.
The Charm of Fudo-yu｜Why Do People Seek Out This Hidden Paradise?
A Place for Digital Detox
The greatest charm of Fudo-yu may lie in its “lack of everything.” Weak cellular signal, no television (or limited), no entertainment facilities. Yet precisely because of this, it’s a place where modern people can recover the “silence” and “time to face oneself” they otherwise lack.
Authentic Thermal Bathing Experience
While many modern hot spring facilities have become tourist destinations with abundant entertainment and services, Fudo-yu preserves the old-fashioned therapeutic spa atmosphere vividly. To stay for extended periods to cure illness, repeating alternating warm and cold bathing daily—such is the original nature of thermal bathing, and this is a precious place where this can be experienced.
Oneness with Nature
The location on Shakushi-yama’s mid-slope, the view of a small stream and mountains from the window, the coldness of spring water felt during cold water bathing, and the silence and starry night sky. All of these make you realize that you are living as part of nature. This is a place that returns the body and mind tired from urban life to nature’s rhythm.
Conclusion｜Reset Body and Mind at Shakushi-yama Spring Water Fudo-yu
Nestled on the mid-slope of Shakushi-yama in Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture, Fudo-yu is a hidden therapeutic hot spring resort using sacred spring water said since ancient times to cure all ailments. Known particularly for its effects on skin diseases, people visit from distant places seeking therapeutic bathing through alternating warm and cold water immersion.
In a deep mountain location far from urban bustle, enveloped in Shakushi-yama’s clear spring water and quiet moments, you can recover your true self. This is the appeal of Fudo-yu. While day-use bathing is possible, if possible, staying overnight or longer and experiencing alternating warm and cold bathing multiple times morning and evening allows you to feel its effects more fully.
Combining with Shakushi-yama hiking creates the ultimate mountain trip—enjoying spectacular views while bathing in hot springs with pleasant fatigue. Despite being located in Fujiyoshida City, a base for Mount Fuji tourism, Fudo-yu offers an otherworldly tranquility. Please experience the “luxury of doing nothing” that modern people often forget.
As a water collection spot, it holds great value, and you can take home Shakushi-yama’s spring water, which is said not to spoil even after a month. Combining bathing with water collection allows you to enjoy Fudo-yu’s blessings at home as well.
When visiting, be careful with mountain road driving and confirm business hours and overnight reservations beforehand. A hidden paradise does come with inconveniences befitting its remoteness, but the healing and discoveries at Fudo-yu far exceed them.
