Vol.11 Hadano Natural Hot Spring Sazanka: A hot spring resort boasting an open-air bath with a spectacular view of Mt. Fuji

This time, we spoke with Mr. Sakamoto, the assistant manager of Hadano Natural Hot Spring Sazanka, a hot spring resort located a 7-minute walk from Tokai-daigaku-mae Station on the Odakyu Line in Hadano City, Kanagawa Prefecture.

-What kind of hot spring facility is Hadano Natural Hot Spring Sazanka?

This facility opened 20 years ago as the only free-flowing hot spring in the Hadano area. The thick hot spring water, which springs from 1,000 meters underground at the source of the Tanzawa River, is also known as "hot water" and "wound healing water," and is said to be effective in treating cuts, skin ailments, and improving skin condition.

Of the six types of baths, the most popular are the open-air baths, which are available for both men and women and feature a rock bath and a cypress bath, and on sunny days you can enjoy the spectacular views of the Tanzawa Mountains and even Mt. Fuji while soaking in the tub. In addition, there are plenty of other baths that are highly effective for recovering from fatigue after work or hiking, such as the tub bath (women's bath) which boasts an abundant supply of hot water, a jet bath and electric bath to soothe your tired body, a cold bath and sauna.

-What kind of customers do you have?

Many people stop by on their way back from climbing Mt. Daisen, and on weekends the facility is mainly frequented by climbers and tourists. The facility is located on a slightly elevated area with a great view, so one of its attractions may be being able to leisurely admire the mountain ranges you have just climbed. There is also a restaurant within the facility, so it is popular with families.

On weekdays, it is used for everyday use by local residents and students attending Tokai University.

Over the past few years, the number of customers has declined due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has been frustrating. Even as the bustle returns, we are working hard to create an environment that will allow customers to relax and enjoy themselves with peace of mind, including thorough infection control measures.

-What are the popular menu items at the restaurant "Daikonya"?

Daikonya, which operates under the concept of "Tasting the Seasons of Hadano," offers a variety of meals using ingredients from Hadano. Popular menu items include cold tofu and soba noodles made with Hadano's famous water. As the temperature rises, the smooth-tasting cold tofu sells like hotcakes, and the 100% buckwheat soba noodles, made with 100% Hadano-grown buckwheat flour, are renowned for their flavor and smooth texture.

We also serve sake from Kanai Sake Brewery, a local sake brewery in Hadano. Many customers order it with snacks such as cold tofu, edamame, and fried foods, and it has proven popular with customers ordering two or even three bottles at a time. Served chilled, it is perfect for relaxing after a bath.

-Please tell us what you think is the charm of Hadano.

Hadano is home to many delicious ramen restaurants. There are many famous restaurants, including those that boast exquisite soups, those with thick pork slices, and those with large tempura toppings. As someone who has been captivated by the deliciousness of ramen so much that I visit many ramen restaurants, I recommend touring the ramen restaurants in Hadano.

-Please tell us about your future goals and prospects.

We are focusing on expanding our services to become a place of relaxation for businessmen. We plan to conduct a survey on the hot spring needs of businessmen and use the results to improve our amenities and food menu. In addition, the sweets made at a welfare workshop near our hotel are delicious, and we are considering collaborating with them. We will continue to take on new challenges while working hand in hand with the local community and supporting our customers.

Introduction to "Hadano Natural Hot Spring Sazanka"

This natural hot spring facility uses Hadano's famous spring water pumped up from 1,000 meters underground. The open-air bath, from which you can view the Tanzawa Mountains and Mt. Fuji, is popular. You can also enjoy the sauna and jet bath. At Restaurant Daikon-ya, we recommend the 100% buckwheat soba noodles and cold tofu, both specialties of Hadano.

Store name: Hadano Natural Hot Spring Sazanka Address: 2-13-13 Minamiyana, Hadano City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Contact: 0463-78-0026
Business hours: Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays 10:00-22:00 (last admission 21:30)
Weekdays 10:00-22:00 (last admission 21:30)
Closed: 3rd Tuesday of every month Access: 7 minutes walk from Tokai University Station
Click here for the website