Onsen with over a century long history

For a feel of traditional downtown atmosphere in Japan, Jakotsuyu is the place to go. Located right in the middle of Asakusa, this Sento, or a public bathouse, has existed since as far back as the Edo Period, meaning that it has over a century long history.

The facility has recently undergone a renovation and it is now a barrier-free environment, equipped with banisters alongside the bathtub, so the elderly will be able to safely use the facility. You are also able to charge your mobile phones free of charge.
Many of the Onsen or Sento facilities in Japan do not admit people with tattoos, but here at Jakotsuyu, tattooed people are also allowed entrance.

“Black water” hot spring that is good for your skin

The main thing to note about the hot spring here is that the water in the hot spring is black!
This “black water” is said to date back to the Paleozoic era, during which the grass and leaves that were buried underground blended into the ground water to create this mineral spring.
This water warms you up to the core and the warmth remains for a while even after you have gotten out of the bath.

Just as the traditional and stereotypical Sento in Japan have a picture of the Fuji Mountain drawn on the walls, so does Jakotsuyu.

Onsen that you can go empty-handed

Along with the main bathtub, this facility houses a semi-open-air bath and sauna, but aside from these, the facility is kept fairly simple, without any restaurants.
It is often referred to as the “Onsen that you can go empty-handed”, as any other things you may need, you can either purchase or rent out on the spot.
We recommend the Tebura Set (which literally translates to Empty-hand Set) that comes with a face towel, shaver, toothbrush, and a handbag. This can be purchased for only 140 yen!
If you would like to use a bath towel as well, there is a rental for merely 60 yen.
If you are in the area and you have some time to kill, this Onsen is a place you can casually stop by without worrying about all the necessities you may need.

INFORMATION

	Jakotsuyu
	1-11-11 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo
	5 minute walk from Asakusa station
	13:00~midnight
	Tuesdays
	03-3841-8645
	Adult (Over 12 years old) 460 yen Elementary School Children (6-12 years old) 180 yen Child (under 6 years old) 80 yen

Photos from asahi

writer：nozomi