The reason I like this Onsen is because it had an open air area with several baths. It is like any other Onsen as far as the regular procedure: 1- take off your shoes and put in a locker. 2- take the key of the locker to the front desk person and pay the entrance (with or without towel and clothes rental). 3- go to the locker area, undress and put your belongings in the locker that opens with the wrist band. 4- scrub and rinse, and you are ready to enjoy the place. The vending machines do not accept money. You can use your wristband instead and then pay up front when you leave. I didn’t know they give you free parking if you park in the building of the mall. I parked on the other side of the station and had to pay 900yens.

It was my first time visiting the Yamato Onsen. I took two trains to get there out of Iwakuni. The Onsen is on the 5th floor of the mall right behind the train station. I exited the station and turned left and went up the stairs to use the skywalk to cross the rail tracks. Right after passing the tracks, turn left and you will see a Daiso store and a UNIQLO. On the left hand side, there will be a lift. The reception is like any other spa onsen. We leave the shoes in a locker and check-in with the front desk. I rented the whole set of clothes and towels. I also booked a 45min massage. The onsen has two floors. The first floor is the basic washing/scrubbing area, then some pools. However, the upstairs is much nicer. It was winter time, so it was really nice to feel the cold air while immersed in hot water. There are baths with green tea, radon, and an area with individual bath tubs. The massage session was quite enjoyable. The bracelet they give you for the locker also allows you to buy in the vending machines, so no money is needed while inside.