Want to soak in a hot spring and relieve the fatigue of everyday life? Want to be soothed by a cute cat?
Wouldn’t it be great if you could have all of these wishes come true at once?
There are several hot spring inns in Yamagata Prefecture that are famous for their mascot cats, but there is actually a spot in Kahoku Town where you can meet cats at a day spa.
The hot spring is called Ebitsuru Onsen. The mascot cat Okoge-chan will welcome you in the lobby.
(Sometimes they go for a walk.)
After taking a bath in the hot spring, you can relax on the sofa and admire Okoge-chan.
If you’d like to have the double soothing experience of hot springs and cats, be sure to check this out.

What is Ebitsuru Onsen?

Ebitsuru Onsen is a day-trip hot spring located about 3 minutes by car west of Higashinekita IC, on the border between Kahoku Town and Higashine City.

Turn left just before the conspicuous red Kahoku Bridge and go about 600m along the bank of the Mogami River.

The old building is visible on the left, and the new building on the right is currently in operation.

History of Ebitsuru Onsen

Before Ebitsuru Onsen was opened, edible tilapia were farmed on the site, and the hot springs began to bubble up when groundwater was dug.

The head of the family was unable to move his body as he wished after a traffic accident, but by bathing in the hot springs every day, he recovered enough to be able to work again. For this reason, the hot springs are loved by many people as a spring for longevity.

The calm atmosphere inside the building

The entire building is decorated with wood, creating a relaxing atmosphere. The floor heating uses hot spring water to keep your feet warm.

The shop corner sells local products.

Apparently, buying pottery also helps support cat protection activities.

Two types of indoor baths

There are two types of indoor baths with natural hot spring water, both of which are hot without any heating or water being added.

It’s quite difficult to take a long bath, but the heat retention effect lasts for a long time even after you get out.

Signboard cat Okoge-chan

This is our mascot cat, Okoge-chan.

Yes, it’s cute. The black and white pattern is very cute.
He was previously a stray cat and is estimated to be around 4 to 5 years old.

Although they usually spend most of their time sleeping, they are very friendly and will come over to greet guests when they arrive.
Although they usually spend most of their time sleeping, they are very friendly and will come over to greet guests when they arrive.
(If you stop, he will bark and get angry lol)
Apparently he doesn’t like being held, so it’s probably best not to force it.

I go there partly because I want to see Okoge-chan. (Of course, I also love hot springs.)
This is sure to be irresistible for cat lovers.

Precautions

Ebitsuru Onsen is a very attractive place, but there are some things you should be aware of when visiting.

Please bring your own amenities

Amenities such as shampoo and body soap are not provided. You will need to bring your own along with towels, but you can also purchase disposable items at the reception.

Cleaning time is from 12:00 to 14:00

Business hours are from 6:00 to 22:00, but the baths are closed during the lunch hours from 12:00 to 14:00 due to cleaning. If you want to bathe in the afternoon, it might be a good idea to have lunch and take a break before heading there.

Get great deals with the Yamagata Onsen Passport

At Ebitsuru Onsen, you can use the Yamagata Onsen Passport. You can get a 50 yen discount off the 400 yen bathing fee, making it a bargain at 350 yen. If you have one, please make use of it.

summary

Click here for store information for Ebitsuru Onsen