[Sawando Onsen] A Complete Guide to "Azusagohan-no-yu": Day-Trip Hot Springs Perfect After Kamikochi & Norikura!
"Where is the best place to refresh and soak in a hot spring after hiking in Kamikochi?"
Many travelers wonder this when planning their trip.
While the famous Hirayu Onsen is located on the Gifu side beyond the Abo Tunnel, Sawando Onsen is the ultimate, convenient hot spring hub located right on the Nagano/Matsumoto side!
Today, we are excited to introduce "Azusagohan-no-yu", a popular day-trip hot spring facility situated right at the gateway to Sawando Onsen.
Here is everything you need to know, including free parking perks, covered parking options, and cashless payment convenience!
5 Reasons Why "Azusagohan-no-yu" is the Perfect Stop
1. Free Parking for Hot Spring Visitors!
For drivers and motorcyclists, the best perk is that parking is completely free if you are only using the day-trip hot spring!
You don't have to worry about paying extra parking fees just for a quick, relaxing soak. It is the perfect spot to pull over and take a refreshing break during your drive.
2. Smooth Cashless Payments with AirPay (Credit Cards & Mobile Pay Accepted)
Azusagohan-no-yu supports AirPay, allowing you to pay smoothly using Credit Cards (Visa, MasterCard, JCB, etc.), QR code payments (PayPay, etc.), and IC cards (Suica, PASMO, etc.).
Even when your hands are full with towels and clothes, you can pay conveniently with a single card or smartphone—no need to fumble for Japanese yen coins after your bath!
3. Convenient "Sawando Ohashi Parking Lot" & Reservable Covered Parking
For travelers heading up to Kamikochi by shuttle bus or taxi, the facility shares space with the Sawando Ohashi Parking Lot.
Fully Paved Surface: The entire area is paved, keeping your tires and vehicle clean from mud and dust.
Reservable Covered Parking (Phone Reservation Required): A rare feature in the Sawando area! While general open-air parking is first-come, first-served, covered parking can be reserved in advance by phone (+81-263-93-2380). This is highly recommended for car lovers or guests staying overnight in Kamikochi. (Note: Parking rates for covered spots differ from standard open-air parking. Please confirm details when booking.)
Bathing Discount for Parkers: Show your Sawando Ohashi Parking ticket at the front desk to get ¥100 off for adults and ¥50 off for children!
4. Just a Short Walk from Sawando Bus Terminal!
It’s not just for drivers—Azusagohan-no-yu is also ideal for bus travelers! Located only about a 5-minute walk from Sawando Bus Terminal, it is super easy to drop by before or after taking the highway bus or Kamikochi shuttle.
5. 100% Natural Free-Flowing Hot Spring Water & Refreshing Milk/Ice Cream
Enjoy 100% natural, free-flowing hot spring water (Gensen Kakenagashi) directly from the source of Sawando Onsen. From the bath area, you can take in peaceful views of the clear Azusa River and surrounding seasonal mountains.
After your bath, stop by the cozy shop for traditional Yatsugatake fresh milk, soft-serve ice cream, cold drinks, beer, snacks, and instant noodles.
Facility & Parking Information
Item | Details |
Facility Name | Azusagohan-no-yu / Sawando Ohashi Parking Lot |
Address | 1459-14 Azumi, Matsumoto City, Nagano 390-1520 |
Phone | +81-263-93-2380 |
Access | Approx. 5-minute walk from Sawando Bus Terminal |
Parking Fee | Hot Spring Users Only: FREE Kamikochi Transfer Parking (Open-Air Standard Car): ¥800/day | Motorcycle: ¥400/day (Resets at midnight) ⚠️ Covered Parking (Phone Booking Required): Rates differ from open-air parking. Please confirm when making a phone reservation. |
Payment Options | Cash & AirPay Cashless (Credit Cards / PayPay / Suica & IC Cards, etc.) |
Features | 100% Natural Hot Spring Water, Paved Parking, Tatami Relaxation Lounge (Entry may be limited during peak hours to ensure comfort) |
Bathing Fee | Adults: ¥750 (Junior High & older) / Children: ¥380 (Age 1+) ★ Show your Sawando Ohashi Parking ticket (or ¥1,000+ receipt from Glenpark Sawando) for ¥100 off adults / ¥50 off kids! |
Lounge-Only Fee (Without Bathing) | Adults: ¥380 / Kids: ¥190 (Includes 2 hours in the TV tatami lounge) |
Amenities for Sale | Bath Towel (¥200), Original Azugappa Towel (¥280), Rental Bath Towel (¥400), Razor (¥80), Toothbrush (¥60), Umbrellas (¥750), Rain Ponchos (¥400) |
Refreshing mountain view along the Azusa River. Crystal-clear waters of the Azusa River flowing right below. Relaxing nature view surrounded by seasonal scenery.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
For Drivers & Motorcyclists (Day Bath Only):
Parking is completely free! Park your vehicle, soak in the 100% natural thermal water, pay easily via AirPay, and get back on the road refreshed.
For Hikers & Sightseers Heading to Kamikochi:
Park your car at Sawando Ohashi Parking Lot, take the shuttle to Kamikochi, and when you return, bring your parking ticket to Azusagohan-no-yu to enjoy discounted bathing! (If you prefer covered parking, remember to reserve your spot by calling +81-263-93-2380 in advance).
💡 Quick Tip:If you are stopping by only for the hot spring, remember to inform the staff at the front desk upon arrival that you are using the day-trip bath.
Access from Keiryuso Siorie
Azusagohan-no-yu is located within easy walking distance from our inn, Keiryuso Siorie (in the Sawando Onsen area).
It offers a wonderful river-side atmosphere that contrasts nicely with our inn's private baths. We highly recommend stopping by for a refreshing dip, a cold bottle of local milk, or a soft-serve ice cream before checking in or during a multi-night stay!
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