Yamaguchi

Hidden within Yamaguchi is a small onsen village. The name escapes me for now, but I will update the post once I remember! I do remember it was very difficult to drive here because there was a single road to get there. If there was oncoming traffic we would pull up as close to the curbside (either a rock escarpment for going down the hill or a metal rail for going up the hill). Parking was difficult to find because most areas were reserved spots for ryokan guest. We settled for one that was at the top of the hill where we noticed most cars parked. From this parking lot, it is about a 10 minute walk downhill to the onsen village. Remember to bring your towels or bathing accessories because you will not want to make the trip back uphill if you forgot anything. Otherwise you could purchase towels at the onsen. Unfortunately, we missed out on the local waters because the shops close at 5:00 pm. Nonetheless it was a nostalgic walk thru in time. Many shops preserved the Showa Era aesthetics and had a rustic charm. The next time I visit here, I want to purchase a night at one of the ryokans to wear their yukata and walk around in the streets.