What are the operating hours at Benifuji no Yu?

On weekdays, the facility operates from 11:00 to 19:00 with last entry at 18:15, while on weekends and holidays it extends to 11:00 to 20:00 with last entry at 19:15. During the winter months from December to February, the onsen opens early at 6:00 am on Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays to allow visitors to witness the "Red Fuji" phenomenon at sunrise. The facility is closed on Tuesdays, except during national holidays, Golden Week, and the summer months of July, August, and September when it remains open daily.

Are tattoos allowed at Benifuji no Yu?

Tattooed guests are not accepted at Benifuji no Yu, following the standard policy of many traditional Japanese onsen facilities. This restriction applies regardless of tattoo size or location. Visitors with tattoos should plan accordingly or consider alternative facilities in the region that may have more lenient policies.

Do I need to bring my own towels?

Towels are not included in the admission price. Visitors can either bring their own towels or rent them at the facility. Rental towels are available for an additional fee of 400 yen for a full set (large and small towel) or 220 yen for a small towel only. The facility also provides lockers for storing personal belongings during your visit.

Can I see Mount Fuji from all the baths?

While Mount Fuji views are a major attraction at Benifuji no Yu, visibility varies between different bathing areas. The indoor baths feature floor-to-ceiling windows that provide clear, elevated views of the mountain. In the outdoor baths, the view of Mount Fuji's peak is partially obstructed by a tall privacy fence, though the mountain remains visible. Weather conditions significantly affect visibility, with clearer views typically occurring during winter months. Photography is not permitted inside the bathing areas.

Is there a discount available for admission?

A 10% discount coupon is available on the facility's official website under the "first-timers" section, reducing the adult admission from 900 yen to 810 yen. Additionally, every Friday is designated as "Ladies Day" with reduced entrance fees for women. The facility accepts cash payments only and does not take credit cards, so visitors should bring sufficient yen for admission, any rental items, and additional services like the bedrock bath or massage treatments.

Yamanashi

Yamanakako Onsen Benifuji no Yu

4 (3982)Public BathSpaPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated Aug 19, 2026

Yamanakako Onsen Benifuji no Yu is a hot spring facility located near Lake Yamanaka, one of the five lakes surrounding Mount Fuji in Yamanashi Prefecture. The facility reopened in December 2015 and has since become known for offering some of the best viewing experiences of Mount Fuji among public bathhouses in the region. The name "Benifuji" translates to "Red Fuji," referring to the phenomenon when snow on the mountain's face is painted with rosy, pinkish hues in early morning light, especially during winter months.

The facility features both indoor and open-air baths, including stone and cypress baths, all offering views of Mount Fuji through floor-to-ceiling windows or from outdoor gardens. The onsen sources pure hot spring water with a naturally alkaline pH level of 10.3, pumping approximately 150 liters per minute. This alkaline water is known for its skin-softening properties, earning it the nickname "Bijin no Yu" or "Hot Spring of Beauty". The water's properties are beneficial for muscle and joint pain, stiff shoulders, poor blood circulation, fatigue, and skin health.

Beyond the bathing areas, visitors can access dry and mist saunas, a bedrock bath, massage services, and a dining area serving local cuisine including the regional specialty Hoto. The facility's design incorporates traditional Japanese garden elements around the outdoor baths, creating a tranquil atmosphere complemented by views of surrounding cedar and white birch trees. During weekends and holidays from December to March, the spa opens at 6:00 am specifically to allow visitors to witness the Red Fuji phenomenon at sunrise.

Admission costs 900 yen for adults, 700 yen for junior and senior high school students, and 350 yen for elementary school students, with children under elementary school age entering free. The facility accepts cash only and does not take credit cards. Additional charges apply for towel rental at 400 yen for a set or 220 yen for a small towel only.

The facility is located a few hundred meters west of Lake Yamanaka's western tip. Fujikko buses from Fujisan Station stop directly in front of the bathhouse, while other buses stop at Hananomiyako-Koen bus stop along the main road, requiring a five-minute walk. Visitors should note that individuals with tattoos are not permitted entry, following standard Japanese onsen policy, and photography is prohibited inside the bathing areas.

Phone

+81 555-20-2700

Website

www.benifuji.co.jp

Overview

Address

865-776 Yamanaka, Yamanakako, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0501, Japan

Traveler reviews

Such a cool experience! I was during the golden week, so it was crowded. But the view cannot be beaten. Simply amazing

Razvan Bondalici

May 5, 2026

One of the best onsen at the Mt Fuji area. For men’s bath, there are 3 pools indoor and 2 outdoor (can’t take photos). The indoor pools have a jacuzzi and a cold spring water, plus 2 sauna rooms. Wow. The outdoor pools have views of Mt Fuji (too bad, can’t see due to clouds). There are cafes to eat after the onsen and areas for massage chairs. It is a nice relaxation experience one need to do after a 11 hrs hike to Mt Fuji Summit.

Amos Kong

Sep 12, 2024

This onsen is a tourist trap. If you’re looking for an authentic onsen experience with natural mineral water, you should look elsewhere. As soon as you enter the indoor bath area, you’re hit with a strong smell of chlorine or a similar chemical. This is not natural spring water. After bathing, my skin was very dry, and it was because of the chlorine. I confirmed with the staff at the front desk that chlorine is added to maintain hygiene standards. The restaurant is also very limited in its selection. If you do end up coming here, it’s better to eat at one of the nearby restaurants.

Geoff Beach

Mar 28, 2026

Unfortunately, we couldn't see Mt. Fuji this day, it was raining. So we spent the whole day at the hot spring, and it was really good. The food was good in taste and price, the bath facilities were really good and the rest of the space was comfortable.

Marisa Cantarino

May 12, 2024

INCREDIBLY Tattoos UNFRIENDLY. Not mentioned once on the website. Even covers won’t do. More Cameras in the lockers than in a bank. Baths are good but not sensational. Staff was unfriendly, it feels they are entitled for their success quite a lot to make you feel like a nobody. And that’s was also towards Natives.