Aizu Higashiyama Onsen

 village, resort, spa resort, hot spring, onsen

Higashiyama Onsen (or Spa) is one of the finest hot spring resorts in the Tohoku region of Japan and is only 10 minutes away from the center of Aizu-Wakamatsu.

Located in the Yugawa Valley, it was founded about 1300 years ago by a Buddhist monk and for a long time it was affectionately known as the Tennei Temple Spa. There is a wide range of accommodation available at the spa. You can choose from small, very traditional wooden ryokans (Japanese inns) to large, modern hotels. Wherever you stay in Higashiyama you can enjoy relaxing in hot spring baths. The water from this spa (sodium chloride / calcium sulphate) is said to be very good for stomach and intestinal disorders, women's problems, skin irritations, rheumatism, neuralgia, winter cold, cuts and bruises.

Over the years many famous artists have stayed at the spa. Inspired by the beauty and history of the area, they have donated numerous paintings, poems and other works of art to the ryokans where they were accommodated. Further up the valley is the Higashiyama Dam. The green and unspoilt area around the dam is a popular spot for people to relax and have picnics.

According to the legends, the springs were discovered by monk Gyoki who was chasing either a three-legged bird or a five-hued cloud to its source.

The place is also famous for the geiko (geishas) who still perform here for special clientelle.