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Located in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture, Dogo Onsen is renowned as one of Japan’s oldest hot springs and attracts visitors from both home and abroad. Its core consists of three standout facilities: the historic Honkan, the artful & modern Asuka-no-Yu, and the locally cherished Tsubaki-no-Yu.
For first-time visitors, deciding which one to visit can be tough. Many may wonder, “What’s the real difference between them?” or “Which one suits me best?”
This article helps you clearly compare these three facilities, explaining each one’s unique charm and ideal visit style. We’ll also cover pricing and atmosphere, so you can plan a deeply satisfying Dogo Onsen experience.
Let’s start with a brief overview of each facility’s character.
Each boasts a distinct appeal in terms of architectural ambiance, design concept, and usage style. Here’s a concise introduction to all three:
Built during the Meiji era, Honkan’s stately three-story wooden structure is the iconic face of Dogo Onsen. Designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan, its presence evokes the feeling of stepping into a storybook.
Inside, you’ll find baths like “Kami no Yu” and “Tama no Yu,” and a tour route that includes the Yushinden, formerly reserved for the Imperial family. This facility offers more than just a soak—it provides a full experience of architectural beauty and historical depth.
Visitors seeking an authentic, classic Dogo Onsen experience should begin here.
Read more about 道後温泉本館
Opened in 2017, Asuka-no-Yu brings a fresh presence to Dogo Onsen. Its name reflects the infusion of Asuka-period architectural motifs and decorations, harmoniously merged with contemporary comfort.
The main bath features poetic verses from the Manyoshu anthology, with distinct designs for men and women. A private “special bath” option ensures a tranquil, secluded experience.
With projection mapping, art exhibitions, and immersive installations, this bathhouse serves as more than just a place to soak—it’s a creative venue for unique experiences.
Read more about 飛鳥乃湯泉
Tsubaki-no-Yu is a communal bath beloved by both tourists and locals alike. Located next to Asuka-no-Yu, its understated building and interior offer an approachable charm.
Though simple, poetic verses near the water source suggest the profound culture of onsen. Without elaborate amenities, it’s perfect for anyone looking to relax quietly in a communal atmosphere.
If you want to enjoy hot spring time just like a local, this facility is ideal.
Read more about 椿の湯
Although each facility has unique features, they share some basic rules and services:
These shared details also apply as you compare the unique features below. While towel rental is available everywhere, some courses include towels, so check individual course details too.
Below is a table that clearly highlights subtle differences between Honkan, Asuka-no-Yu, and Tsubaki-no-Yu—something difficult to capture in text alone.
Use it as a handy reference when choosing.
| Item | Dogo Onsen Honkan | Dogo Onsen Bekkan Asuka‑no‑Yu | Dogo Onsen Tsubaki‑no‑Yu |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atmosphere | A surreal, heritage‑rich space | An enchanting fusion of art and traditional motifs | A down‑to‑earth communal space |
| Building | Meiji‑era wooden structure (Important Cultural Property) | Contemporary architecture with Asuka‑period motifs | Modern kura‑style building |
| Number of General Baths | 2 (Kami no Yu & Tama no Yu) | 1 | 1 |
| Large Public Rest Area | Yes | Yes | No |
| Private Rooms | Yes | Yes | No |
| Price | Bath - only ¥700+, course options | Bath - only ¥610+, course options | ¥450 |
| Facilities | • General baths (Kami no Yu & Tama no Yu) • Large hall • Private rooms • Special private suite | • Large hall • Themed private rooms showcasing traditional crafts • Special private bath | Main bath only |
| Amenities | Shampoo, conditioner, body soap, hairdryer | Same as above | Hairdryer (¥10/3min) |
| Highlights | • Yushinden (Imperial suite) tour • Exhibit room | • Projection mapping in bath • Craft exhibitions inside • Private special bath | |
| Reservation | • Private suites by reservation • Yushinden tour by reservation | • Special bath by reservation | Not required (walk‑ins only) |
| Recommended for | Those wanting a tourism + cultural experience | Those seeking design & comfort | Those wanting a simple soak |
Honkan and Asuka-no-Yu offer multiple course options, from simple bath-only access to plans including private rooms and exclusive tours. Ideal for longer stays.
Meanwhile, Tsubaki-no-Yu stands out for its budget-friendly ¥450 bath-only option—perfect for a quick soak.
Beyond price, align your choice with your visit style and purpose.
| Facility | Course Name | Contents | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honkan | Bath - only Course | Kami no Yu only | Adult: ¥700 Child: ¥350 | No rest area access |
| Honkan | Kami no Yu + Large Hall | Kami no Yu + public hall rest | Adult: ¥1,300 Child: ¥650 | Includes rental yukata, tea & snacks |
| Honkan | Tama no Yu + Large Hall | Tama no Yu + public hall + Yushinden tour | Adult: ¥2,000 Child: ¥1,000 | Yukata, tea, snacks, towels included |
| Honkan | Tama no Yu + Private Room | Tama no Yu + private room + Yushinden tour | Adult: ¥2,500 Child: ¥1,250 | Yukata, tea, snacks, towels included |
| Honkan | Special Private Suite (Hisho - no - ma) | Bath + private suite + Yushinden tour | Group: ¥3,000 + Adult: ¥1,300 Child: ¥650 | Limited to 5 groups/day |
| Honkan | Special Private Suite (Shirasagi - no - ma) | Bath + private suite + Yushinden tour | Group: ¥6,000 + Adult: ¥1,300 Child: ¥650 | Limited to 5 groups/day |
| Honkan | Yushinden Tour Only | 30‑min guided tour (no bath) | Adult: ¥500 Child: ¥250 | Reservation required |
| Asuka - no - Yu | Bath - only Course | Bath only | Adult: ¥610 Child: ¥300 | Simplest plan |
| Asuka - no - Yu | Large Hall Course | Bath + large hall rest | Adult: ¥1,280 Child: ¥630 | Includes yukata, tea, snacks |
| Asuka - no - Yu | Private Room Course | Bath + themed private room | Adult: ¥1,690 Child: ¥830 | Includes yukata, tea, snacks, towels |
| Asuka - no - Yu | Special Bath Course | Private bath + rest room | Group: ¥2,040 + Adult: ¥1,690 Child: ¥830 | Includes yukata, tea, snacks, towels |
| Tsubaki - no - Yu | - | Bath only | Adult: ¥450 Child: ¥150 | Bring or buy toiletries at reception |
All three facilities let you visit empty-handed: towels and bath towels available for rent, and toiletries available for purchase—though Tsubaki-no-Yu lacks toiletries on-site unless purchased.
| Item | Honkan | Asuka‑no‑Yu | Tsubaki‑no‑Yu |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rental Towel | ¥100 | ¥100 | ¥100 |
| Rental Bath Towel | ¥300 | ¥300 | ¥300 |
| Mandarin - scented Soap (small) | ¥60 | ¥60 | ¥60 |
| Shampoo | – | – | ¥50 |
| Conditioner | – | – | ¥50 |
| Hair Brush | ¥70 | ¥70 | – |
| Shower Cap | ¥40 | ¥40 | – |
| Toothbrush | – | – | ¥30 |
| Razor (double - edge) | ¥70 | ¥70 | ¥70 |
| Long Razor | – | – | ¥70 |
Each of the three Dogo Onsen facilities offers its own flavor, so the right choice depends on what kind of experience you’re after. Below are some recommendations based on your purpose or preference.
Honkan is a Meiji-era wooden structure with a solemn atmosphere and national cultural value. It houses two main baths (“Kami no Yu” and “Tama no Yu”) and offers tours of the former Imperial suite Yushinden. If you’re eager to soak in history and architecture along with the bath, this is the place for you.
Asuka-no-Yu combines Asuka-style motifs with contemporary comfort. Themed baths and projection mapping on the 26th of each month, plus a private “special bath” for families or groups, provide a one-of-a-kind experience ideal for those seeking creativity and convenience.
Tsubaki-no-Yu is an unpretentious communal bath offering hot spring water for just ¥450. No flashy trappings, no rest areas—just a peaceful soak. Ideal for a quick, local-style break during your travels.
Honkan, Asuka-no-Yu, and Tsubaki-no-Yu are all within a short walk—Asuka-no-Yu and Tsubaki-no-Yu are adjacent, with Honkan about a 2-minute stroll away. Their close proximity makes it easy to visit multiple spots in one trip.
If you want to experience all three facilities, consider the Dogo Onsen Triple‑Bath Pass.
This pass grants one-time access to Honkan (bath-only), Asuka-no-Yu (bath-only), and Tsubaki-no-Yu at a bundled price—totaling ¥1,400 for adults (¥640 for children), a 20% savings over individual admission fees of ¥1,760.
Ideal for slowly exploring each facility’s charm while enjoying great savings.
Honkan, Asuka-no-Yu, and Tsubaki-no-Yu each offer different vibes and ways to enjoy your soak:
Rather than asking “Which one is best?”, consider “How do you want to enjoy it?” and choose accordingly.
Don’t overthink—feel free to drop into the facility that piques your interest at the moment.
As someone who’s traveled to Dogo Onsen, I found it to be a place rich in history and culture—a truly lovely destination.
I hope this guide helps you choose the facility that aligns with your travel goals.
For detailed deep dives into each facility, check out these articles:
