One of Japan’s Three Oldest Hot Springs: “Hashiriyu” in Atami
25 July 2025
One of Atami's best-kept secrets is Hashiriyu (走り湯, literally "running hot water"), a unique natural hot spring that flows horizontally from a cave. This remarkable sight takes only about 10 minutes to visit, making it perfect for a quick stop during your stay in Atami. Experience this rare natural phenomenon that represents the very essence of Japan's hot spring culture.
What is Hashiriyu? - A Rare Horizontal Hot Spring Cave
Atami is one of Japan's most famous hot spring towns with over 1,300 years of history. Among all its hot springs, Hashiriyu stands out as an extremely rare "horizontal cave hot spring" (横穴式温泉, yokoana-shiki onsen) that has been known since ancient times. This spring offers visitors a chance to trace back to the very origins of Japan's hot spring culture.
Hashiriyu is a completely unique hot spring that gushes horizontally from inside a cave. The cave is only a few metres deep, but 70-degree hot water flows out at a rate of 170 litres per minute. The name "Hashiriyu" comes from how the hot water used to "run" down from the mountainside to the coast, like a waterfall.
As you approach Hashiriyu, you'll notice that all the information signs include English translations, showing thoughtful consideration for international visitors.
How Hashiriyu Works - The Science Behind the Hot Spring
This natural hot spring is created by the Earth's powerful geological forces. Rainwater and seawater seep deep underground, where they are heated by volcanic activity beneath the Izu Peninsula. The heated water then finds its way back to the surface through cracks in the rock, creating this spectacular natural display.
Unlike the many hot spring baths (onsen) that Atami is famous for, you cannot actually bathe in Hashiriyu. However, this gives you a rare chance to experience the raw power of a natural hot spring up close - it's like seeing the very heart of hot spring culture.
The Sacred Connection Between Hot Springs and Shrines in Atami
Hashiriyu offers more than just a natural hot spring experience. Here, you can witness the fascinating blend of Japan's ancient nature worship and hot spring culture. This special place allows you to feel both the powerful natural forces and the spiritual significance that Japanese people have found in hot springs for centuries.
The Living Power of Hot Springs
Standing at the cave entrance, you'll see thick white steam clouds your camera lens, whilst the bubbling sounds of gushing water echo off the cave walls. Hot air blasts towards you from just metres away, letting you feel the "living heartbeat" of the hot spring with all your senses. Even without bathing, the experience here is more intense than many traditional hot spring baths.
When you actually approach the cave mouth, you're hit by a wave of steamy heat. Step inside and your camera or phone lens instantly fogs up from the thick steam - it's like being in a natural sauna. The bubbling sound of flowing water echoes off the walls with a rhythmic, pulsing beat. You truly feel that the "hot spring is alive."
You cannot enter the water, but seeing hot spring water gush out from such close range is an experience you simply cannot find at typical hot spring resorts. The visit takes only about 3 minutes, but in this short time you can experience the very essence of Japan's hot spring culture.
Hashiriyu Shrine - Where Hot Springs Meet Faith
Directly above the hot spring source sits Hashiriyu Shrine (走り湯神社, also called Yuzen Shrine), which is connected to the famous Izusan Shrine (伊豆山神社). In fact, a single path connects Hashiriyu all the way up to Izusan Shrine, showing the deep connection between hot springs and religious faith in Atami.
Though small, this shrine has been carefully maintained as a place where people purify their body and spirit with hot spring steam. In Japanese hot spring culture, hot springs are not just places for bathing - they are considered sacred places that cleanse both body and soul. Hashiriyu Shrine perfectly represents this spiritual aspect.
After leaving the cave, walk up a short path to find Hashiriyu Shrine sitting quietly among the steam. Though it's a small shrine, standing here surrounded by hot spring steam and offering a prayer brings a surprisingly peaceful feeling.
The Path to Izusan Shrine - 837 Stone Steps
If you have the time and energy, you can challenge yourself to climb the 837 stone steps that lead from Hashiriyu Shrine up to Izusan Shrine (伊豆山神社, Izusan-jinja). This historic path has been walked by countless pilgrims over the centuries, offering a unique cultural experience where hot springs and religious faith are literally connected by a single road.
However, these stone steps continue all the way up to Izusan Shrine and require considerable physical fitness, so please consider your time and physical condition before attempting the climb. You can find the location of Izusan Shrine on Google Maps below:
How to Get to Hashiriyu from Atami
Hashiriyu is located relatively close to Atami Station, and there are several ways to reach it. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, so please choose the best option based on your travel style, fitness level, and budget. Here are the detailed access options:
Most Convenient: Taxi Access
From the taxi stand in front of JR Atami Station, simply tell the driver "Hashiriyu made" (to Hashiriyu) and you'll arrive in about 5 minutes for under ¥1,000. Ask the driver to "wait for 3-5 minutes" and they'll stay while you explore the cave. Many taxi drivers know interesting stories about Hashiriyu and may share fascinating local knowledge.
When I actually took a taxi from Atami Station, we arrived in just 5 minutes. The driver explained the history of Hashiriyu in detail and shared interesting stories whilst waiting. This kind of interaction with local people is one of the special pleasures of visiting Hashiriyu.
Access by Bus
You can also reach Hashiriyu using Atami's local bus service. The nearest bus stop is "Izusan Chūō" (伊豆山中央). From this bus stop, it's about a 5-minute walk to Hashiriyu. You can find the bus stop location on Google Maps below:
Access on foot
Walking from Atami Station takes about 25 minutes, but Atami has many steep hills, so this option is only recommended for those with good physical fitness. However, walking does give you a chance to fully experience the atmosphere of Atami's hot spring town.
Access and Parking by Car
You can also drive to Hashiriyu by rental car, though there is no dedicated car park. According to local residents, short-term roadside parking is acceptable. When I visited by taxi, the driver parked nearby on the street and got out to provide detailed explanations.
Essential Information About Hashiriyu (As of July 2025)
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours (no lighting - be careful at night)
Admission: Free
Visit Duration: 3-5 minutes inside the cave
Parking: No dedicated parking (taxi waiting/short-term street parking is common)
Important Notes: This is a "viewing hot spring" - you cannot bathe in it. Bring a towel as steam will fog cameras and glasses
Location on Google Maps is below:
