Aqua Ignis, Mie

Aqua Ignis is a hot spring resort complex located in Komono Town, Mie Prefecture, approximately 40 kilometers southwest of Nagoya. Opened in 2012, this modern onsen facility was developed as part of a regional revitalization project to promote tourism in the Yunoyama Onsen area, a hot spring district with over 1,300 years of history. The resort was designed by renowned architect Kenzo Tange's son, Paul Tange, combining contemporary architecture with traditional Japanese bathing culture.

The facility draws its significance from the Yunoyama Onsen hot springs, which are said to have been discovered by a monk who observed an injured deer healing its wounds in the thermal waters. The springs contain alkaline simple hot spring water with temperatures reaching 60 degrees Celsius, known for their skin-softening properties and therapeutic benefits. The resort represents a successful modernization of Japan's centuries-old onsen tradition while maintaining respect for natural resources.

Visitors can experience multiple bathing areas including indoor and outdoor pools, a shallow heated pool for children, and private family baths. The complex features Italy's acclaimed chef Tsutomu Ochiai's restaurant serving Italian cuisine, a patisserie by Hironobu Tsujiguchi, and a bakery. Additional amenities include accommodation facilities, a strawberry picking farm operational from December to May, and event spaces for weddings and conferences.

The resort operates year-round with distinct seasonal experiences. Winter months offer the most popular strawberry picking activities, while spring and summer provide optimal conditions for outdoor bathing with mountain views. Autumn attracts visitors seeking to combine hot spring relaxation with fall foliage viewing in the surrounding Suzuka Mountains.

Aqua Ignis is accessible by Kintetsu Yunoyama Line to Yunoyama Onsen Station, followed by a free shuttle bus that runs every 30 minutes. By car, the resort is located along Route 477 with free parking for 300 vehicles. Day-use admission costs 1,200 yen for adults and 600 yen for children, while overnight accommodation packages start from 15,000 yen per person. The facility operates daily from 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM, with last entry at 11:00 PM.