Unazuki Onsen Hot Spring

Unazuki Onsen is Toyama Prefecture’s largest hot-spring town and the gateway to the Kurobe Gorge. It is said to have opened in 1923 and has long been loved by many visitors. The spring water is renowned for its clarity—sometimes said to be the most transparent in Japan—and is a mildly alkaline simple hot spring that feels gentle on the skin. Its ion effects help remove excess sebum and dead skin, and the water contains plenty of carbon dioxide, contributing to detox effects. Rich minerals also provide strong relaxation benefits. Even without staying at a ryokan or hotel, you can enjoy the onsen at the many footbaths scattered around town. The area also offers museum-hopping, including the Kurobegawa Electric Power Memorial Museum. Food-hunting in the onsen town is also fun, with many places serving delicious dishes using Unazuki’s abundant spring water. Two recommended souvenirs are “Unazuki Beer” and the long-established confection “Omokage.” Access: Get off at JR Hokuriku Shinkansen Kurobe-Unazukionsen Station, walk ~3 min to Shin-Kurobe Station, transfer to Toyama Chihou Railway (~30 min) to Unazuki Onsen Station. By car: ~15 min (13 km) from Kurobe IC on the Hokuriku Expressway.