Soak in the baths just like in Spirited Away—Dogo Onsen’s 3,000-year-old charm never fades

Text / Edited and reported by the MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Department

Spirited Away, written and directed by the legendary Japanese animation master Hayao Miyazaki, became a global hit upon its release in 2001 and went on to win an Academy Award the following year. Anyone who has seen Spirited Away will surely remember the bathhouse run by the witch Yubaba, where gods come to soak. This iconic bathhouse was actually inspired by Dogo Onsen, Japan’s oldest hot spring with a legendary history of 3,000 years.

Located in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, Dogo Onsen is world-renowned. Based on unearthed artifacts from the area, it is believed that the hot spring has been in use for about 3,000 years, earning it the title of Japan’s oldest hot spring. According to Shinto mythology, both Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto and Sukunabikona-no-Kami were healed of their illnesses after bathing in its waters, leading to the belief that Dogo Onsen possesses mystical healing powers. Ever since this story spread, people from all walks of life—nobles and commoners alike—have flocked here as pilgrims for 3,000 years without interruption.

Another legend tells of an injured white heron that used to fly to Dogo Onsen every day to soak, and its wounds healed quickly. As a result, people came to believe that the hot spring had curative properties. To this day, the white heron remains a symbol of Dogo Onsen, even adorning the main building.

Dogo Onsen is situated in the city center of Matsuyama, offering excellent transportation access. It bustles with a constant flow of visitors and enjoys great prosperity. Since the Meiji era, it has been a famous hot spring resort destination. The fame of Dogo Onsen is well-established, and the warm, joyful atmosphere unique to hot spring towns is embodied in the sight of bathers wearing yukata and geta. Upon arriving at Dogo Onsen, one can’t help but feel relaxed. People of all ages, dressed in loose yukata, with charming women carrying small bamboo baskets, everyone rolls up their pant legs to enjoy the foot baths. The gentle breeze rustling through the green willows adds a touch of poetic melancholy—even to those who aren’t young anymore.