Written by Jane Pipkin

The centerpiece of Shuzenji, Tokko no Yu is the oldest and most sacred hot spring in the area. It has a rich history that marks the beginning of the onsen town.

What’s Tokko no Yu?

This wooden footbath is situated in the middle of the Katsura River. It is said to be the place where the Buddhist priest Kūkai struck a rock with his tokko (a mallet-like ritual tool) in 807, thereby creating the hot spring. According to legend, Kukai was moved by the sight of a boy bathing his sick father, which inspired him to create it.

Please note that bathing is not allowed at Tokko no Yu. If you want to bathe your feet, head to Kawara Yu or River Terrace Suginoyu.

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How to get there

Tokko no Yu is 15 minutes away from Shuzenji Station. To get there, take the bus for ¥260 to Shuzenji Onsen and get off the stop with the same name. From there, it is a 4-minute walk to Tokko no Yu.

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独鈷の湯（観光温泉体足共に入浴不可）
Shizuoka
410-2416 Shuzenji, Izu, Shizuoka
Map
Open 24 hours
Free
Official site

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