Q.
Are small children permitted at Yamato-no-yu?
A.
Unfortunately, we do not allow small children at Yamato-no-yu.
Although the voice of our guests has also been an influence, from the beginning, Yamato no Yu was founded and designed as a resort for adults. It is with regret that we have had to turn away guests (especially those who have travelled longer distances) with small children. However, when we consider the precautions required to ensure the safety of small children in the bathing area, as well as the need to prevent any troubles with other guests, we feel it is more practical to prohibit small children. Recently, this trend is growing, and a number of onsen throughout Japan are introducing similar policies. It is the goal of Yamato no Yu to give our guests a luxurious and relaxing experience, and we believe the policy of prohibiting small children helps us to achieve this goal. We are endeavoring to provide a comfortable and relaxing experience for all guests.
Q.
Are tattoos permitted at Yamato-no-yu?
A.
Yes, tattoos are permitted in Yamato-no-yu.
Yamato no Yu does not have a policy prohibiting tattoos. Though in the past, there was a certain negative image associated with tattoos in Japan, today tattoos are becoming more of a fashion statement, especially amongst the younger generation. As such, the negative images associated with tattoos are fading. As there are people wearing tattoos who contribute positively for the betterment of society, so there are people without tattoos who do the exact opposite. At Yamato no Yu, we do not judge guests by how they look or what they choose to wear. In so doing, Yamato no Yu has forged a path that opens the way for a new generation to enjoy a relaxing experience that would not have been available to them in the past.
Q.
Are bathing suits/towels/clothing permitted in the hot spring baths?
A.
No, they are not permitted.
Bathing suits, towels or any other form of clothing are not permitted in the hot spring baths. Laundry detergents used to wash clothing and towels contain chemicals which will contaminate the fresh spring water. Please refrain from putting any kind of clothing including towels and bathing suits in the baths.
Q.
Are the public baths separated by gender?
A.
Yes, they are separated.
The hot springs and saunas are separated by gender. Please see the Floor Guide (http://www.yamatonoyu.com/eng/guidance/guidance.asp). We alternate on even days and odd days, so depending on the day, you will be able to experience different baths.
Q.
Can I use the public baths if I reserve the Private Room with Open Air Bath?
A.
Yes, you can.
You are free to use the public baths if you have also reserved the Private Room with Open Air Bath.
Q.
Can I reserve massages/therapies ahead of time?
A.
No, we don’t take reservations.
Unfortunately, massages & therapies are on a first-come, first-served basis and we do not take reservations.
Q.
Are there rooms available for overnight stays?
A.
No. There are no facilities for overnight stays.
Yamato no Yu is a day spa, open from 10:00am to 10:00pm. There are no facilities for overnight stays.
Q.
Is smoking permitted at Yamato-no-yu?
A.
Smoking is prohibited at Yamato-no-yu. We maintain a non-smoking policy for our customers’ health.
From the time Yamato no Yu was founded, we have maintained a non-smoking policy, so there is no smoking area in Yamato no Yu. The reason for this is we long for guests?f health with regard to both the mind and the body. To this end, we have created a healthy atmosphere for all guests. Although it has been suggested that Yamato no Yu should create a smoking area, we find that the smell of cigarette smoke tends to permeate throughout a building where smoking is permitted, and there is no way to completely purify the air. As such, it is preferable to have a non-smoking policy, which will, in turn, benefit the health of all guests. As an employer, we are also concerned for the health of our staff. Based on the above, as well as on the international trend toward public facilities, such as hospitals, schools, and so on, prohibiting smoking, Yamato no Yu will follow the current health boom, and maintain its non-smoking policy.