Nasu Onsen-kyo is a spread out hot spring resort on the slopes of Mt. Nasudake，the main peak of the Nasu mountains. The origin of the Onsen-kyo is “Shikanoyu” discovered in the 7th century.The “Shikanoyu(deer spring)” was named after locals witnessed an injured deer completely heal after jumping into the steaming pool. It's been renowned for its healing powers ever since. Historic visitors include Yoritomo Minamoto，a great samurai of 12th century，and Basho Matsuo，a famous poet of 17th century. Onsen styles vary from modern hotels in the highland to traditional wooden baths where you can try bathing in more than one spot to feel the difference.

Nasu is known as the largest volcanic zone in Japan. Several large eruptions in the past have claimed many victims here. The villagers in the neighboring area started to cleanse themselves to appease the anger of the mountain, visit Nasu Yuzen Shrine, light the fire of the Avici hell and worship this as gojinka (sacred fire). This then became established as an event to pray for a bumper harvest and sound health before long.   The Gojinka Festival features a parade from Nasu Yuzen Shrine to Sesshoseki by participants attired in white clothing with torches. A large torch (gojinka) is then lit to create a fantastic atmosphere.   While the gojinka burns, the folk entertainment of hakumen konmo kyubikitusne drums is presented at Sesshoseki - the site of the legend of kyubinokitusne (nine-tailed fox). The general public can also participate in the torch parade which involves a walk through the dark.

History of Nasu Yuzen Shrine It is said that a hunter named Kano found onsen here when he was trying to hunt a white deer. He built this shrine for thanksgiving. According to an article written in Nara period (A.D 710~794), we can confirm that the shrine already existed during that time.   During the Genpei War in 12th century, an archer called Nasu Yoichi came here to pray for victory over Taira family’s army. He shot down a fan by one arrow that enemy put on the front of their boat when he stood on the ground. It made him became legend and the shrine became very famous for blessing Yoichi. Yoichi donated his bow and arrow to the shrine, which became shrine’s tressure later.   Shrine’s famous festival The most important event of the shrine is the “Dai Festival”, which is held on October 8 and 9 every year. They dedicate onsen to the God, and perform a traditional dance called “Urayasu Dance”.   Then on October 9, people perform another traditional dance called “Ozawa’s Lion Dance,” which is designated as the “Intangible Cultural Property of Nasu Machi” to pray for prosperity.   There is also a famous festival be held on the last weekend of May, the “Nasu Seshosseki Gojinka Festival”. The highlight of the festival is a parade from Yuzen Shrine to Sesshoseki by participants attired in white clothing with torches.

Sessho-seki is a huge lava rock on the slope of Mount Nasu near Nasu Yumoto Onsen. According to literature from the Muromachi period (室町時代) (1336-1573), a fox with nine tails disguised itself as a beautiful woman and tried to kill the Emperor Toba. After fleeing to Nasu, the demon vixen was vanquished and turned into a stone. The stone was named "Sessho-seki " (Killing Stone) because many creatures died from the poisonous air it emitted.This place has been designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty.

Located on a hilltop in Nasu Onsen, Matsukawaya Nasu Kogen Hotel offers stunning panoramic views of the majestic Nasu natural landscape and the pleasure of bathing in 100% natural hot spring water.   The hot springs are sourced from two different springs: "Shika no Yu," which has a history of over 1,380 years since its discovery, and "Oku no Sawa Gensen," a mild acidic hot spring that is gentle on the skin. There are also private baths made with local stone materials, allowing you to enjoy the hot springs in a private space.   Enjoy the changing scenery throughout the seasons: fresh green leaves in spring and summer, vibrant autumn foliage, and snow-covered landscapes in winter.   【About the Hot Spring】 Water color: ・Shika-no-Yu Gensen : Milky white ・Oku-no-Sawa Gensen : Clear Spring quality: ・Shika-no-Yu Gensen : Simple acidic sulfur hot spring ・Oku-no-Sawa Gensen : Simple sulfur hot spring Therapeutic effects: Neuralgia, rheumatism, gastrointestinal diseases, gynecological diseases, dermatological diseases, fatigue recovery, etc.