The inspiration for Spirited Away is right here—visit the Yunotsu Onsen hot springs in Japan and step into Granny Yubaba’s bathhouse!

Reported and photographed by Chen Hanyin / Japan

There are many theories about where the bathhouse in Spirited Away was inspired. Some say it's Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s Three Ancient Springs, while others believe the prototype is the Notoya Ryokan in Yunotsu Onsen, Yamagata Prefecture. If you fly to Yunotsu Onsen in northeastern Japan, the classic Japanese-style bathhouse buildings surrounded by rising steam truly give the illusion of stepping through a tunnel into Granny Yubaba’s world.

▲Yunotsu Onsen in northeastern Japan is full of Taisho-era romance.

▲The natural surroundings embrace this quaint hot spring town.

Located in the rural countryside of northeastern Japan, Yunotsu Onsen is a peaceful valley town with a history of 500 years. Walking along the hot spring street lined with century-old buildings and listening to the crisp sound of flowing spring water brings an extraordinary sense of tranquility. Beside the rustic wooden bridge, white steam rises from the century-old hot springs, and free communal foot baths beckon travelers to unwind and immerse themselves in the natural embrace of Yunotsu Onsen.

▲You can take off your shoes and enjoy a free foot bath.

As you walk into the hot spring street, you’ll quickly notice a striking red arched bridge—that’s the legendary Notoya Ryokan, said to be the prototype for Spirited Away. It’s a three-story wooden building constructed in 1921 (Taisho 10) and has been registered as a national tangible cultural property. The red bridge, reminiscent of scenes from the movie, has become a popular photo spot for visitors.

▲The scenery of Yunotsu Onsen at night is incredibly romantic. (Photo / frompakutaso)

▲The red bridge in front of Notoya Ryokan is believed to be a filming location for Spirited Away. (Photo / provided by a netizenmicaminlo; please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

If you’ve watched the Japanese drama Oshin, you’ll surely recognize the Yunotsu Onsen scenes—it’s the very hot spring town where Oshin’s mother worked to support her family. The classic scenery is right before your eyes, and since you’ve come all this way, be sure to try on a kimono and fully soak in the rich Taisho-era romance.

▲Kimono rental: about ¥1,500 for one hour; ¥2,500 for overnight.

In addition, the city of Ozawa in Yamagata Prefecture is famous for its three specialties: Ozawa beef, watermelon, and soba noodles. The area has many long-established soba shops, and if you want to try authentic Japanese soba, you won’t be disappointed here. Fans of Hayao Miyazaki, when you visit northeastern Japan, don’t forget to include a trip to Yunotsu Onsen to relive the wonderful memories of Haku and Chihiro.

▲Traditional soba noodles that are chewy and delicious.

＊Costume rental "Airisuge 0? Province Fangbr /> Address: Yunotsu Shingu 438, Ozawa, Yamagata, Japan
Business hours: 9:00 - 18:00

＊Soba noodle shop "Izu no Hana"
Address: Yunotsu Shingu 383, Ozawa, Yamagata, Japan
Business hours:
11:00～14:30 Soba serving
14:40～18:00 Tea serving
18:00～22:30 Drink serving
Lunch available, open on Sundays as usual