Tsurumaki Onsen Station, Hadano

Tsurumaki Onsen Station serves as the gateway to one of Kanagawa Prefecture's most accessible hot spring destinations, located in Hadano City. The station opened on April 1, 1927, as part of the Odakyu Odawara Line and takes its name from the renowned hot springs that have drawn visitors for generations. The station lies 55.9 rail kilometers from Shinjuku Station and features a traditional one-story wooden building that reflects the area's historic character.

The hot springs themselves have a fascinating origin story rooted in practical necessity. In ancient times, the local well water contained high salt content and was extremely bitter, making it unsuitable for drinking or irrigation, so residents began using it for bathing instead. This discovery led to the development of Tsurumaki Onsen, which has become synonymous with therapeutic mineral-rich waters sourced from deep beneath the Tanzawa Mountains.

Visitors can experience authentic Japanese hospitality at establishments like Motoyu Jinya, founded in 1918 and boasting over 100 years of history. The ryokan features a traditional Japanese garden spanning 10,000 tsubo (approximately 33,000 square meters) set against the backdrop of the Tanzawa mountain range. The traditional Japanese garden changes appearance seasonally, and visitors can enjoy natural hot spring baths in outdoor settings. Day-trip options are available for those seeking a shorter visit, offering access to meals, hot springs, and rest facilities.

The area also provides excellent hiking opportunities, particularly at nearby Kobozan Park, which offers easy mountain trails suitable for all fitness levels. On clear days, hikers can enjoy views of Mount Fuji from the mountain paths, making it an ideal combination destination for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Tsurumaki Onsen Station is served by the Odakyu Odawara Line, with direct connections taking approximately 60 minutes from Shinjuku Station. The main onsen facilities are conveniently located just a 4-minute walk from the station, making this destination highly accessible for day trips or overnight stays. The Romance Car express service provides the fastest connection from central Tokyo, while local and express trains offer regular service throughout the day. From Odawara, the journey takes approximately 30 minutes by express or local train.