Tokyo Onsen Guide｜A Day Trip to Sadako's Hometown—The Beauty of Atagawa Onsen

Although the iconic horror character Sadako's hometown is Oshima, this weekend's exploration of Izu Atagawa turned out to be unexpectedly rewarding! After checking out from Inatori, I took advantage of a five-hour gap and headed straight to Atagawa, conveniently located along the route back to Tokyo. Just two train stops away, and a few minutes' walk from the station, I stumbled upon a steaming hot spring footbath. While soaking my feet, I also got to experience making onsen eggs firsthand—placing eggs in a special mesh bag, immersing them in the hot spring, and waiting for about ten minutes. Once peeled, the yolk was creamy and runny, while the egg white was tender and subtly sweet, making it the first delightful surprise of the trip. Strolling along the winding river, the initially gloomy sky gradually cleared up. Sunlight poured over the sea, creating shimmering blue waves that were impossible not to capture with a camera. By the seaside, there was another footbath area where you could soak your feet to relieve fatigue while enjoying the expansive ocean view—a truly relaxing experience. On the way back, I even encountered a few lazy stray cats whose affectionate leg rubs instantly melted my heart. What left the deepest impression about Atagawa were the massive hot spring wells scattered along the roadside. Billowing steam rose into the air, complemented by the surrounding rustic architecture, evoking a somewhat eerie and mysterious atmosphere reminiscent of scenes from Sadako's movies. Imagining the nightfall, with red lanterns lighting up one by one, their warm glow mingling with the mist, would surely add a magical touch. Unfortunately, my schedule was tight, and I couldn't stay for the night view, but the daytime experience alone was enough to make me fall in love with this charming town. Compared to the slightly desolate Inatori, with its bug-filled seaside, Atagawa offers not only a richer hot spring experience but also more vibrant natural scenery and cultural ambiance. Whether you're looking to relax or seeking a unique travel experience, this place deserves a spot on your must-visit list for Tokyo's surrounding areas!