Originally planned to go evening but went morning instead. It is located off the main road at the seaside. Parking is available and a lady came to our reception and is exceptionally friendly. She taught us how to purchase tickets, I think 500yen, and reminded not to bring in valuables as there are only lockers without lock function. There is also no shower facilities. Toilets are separate on the outside. There is 2 onsens in the female side. A smaller one and a larger one close by the sea. Its a nice feeling being so close by the sea, hearing the waves breaking onto the shore.

Visiting on a rainy day, I found Saki No Yu to be a pleasant, tranquil experience. Approaching it I was a bit concerned whether I would be admitted, as I have a big tattoo covering all of my upper arm and shoulder (I’m Caucasian, from a country where tattoos are common). But no problem, when I asked if my tattoo was a problem, I was smilingly welcomed. So how do things work around here? Well, I paid 500 paid in a coin machine and pressed a button - hopefully the right one - to get a ticket. Immediately after there were some lockers, but since I only brought a few hundred yen and a towel, I skipped it (nothing more was needed - but if I were to go again, I’d also bring water). Then came the time to find the right entry. As is common, there were some blue curtains to pass for men, and red for women. Inside the blue curtains I was greeted politely by a friendly guy. There were more lockers, and I undressed. There were no showers, but I already knew this and had showered thoroughly at the hotel. Out in the open, between the two pools, there was running water and buckets to pour over yourself before entering the pools. Note that when I say “out in the open” I mean literally out in the open. It’s open air, everyone is buck naked, and from the men’s section there’s a clear line of sight to several hotel room windows, a walking bridge, some far away buildings and anyone in passing boats (if there had been any). The women’s section is more secluded. But as a man, if you’re shy and self conscious, this may not be for you. The Japanese didn’t care at all about a naked, tall, tattooed Scandinavian dude in their midst; they seem to be more relaxed about nakedness than many Westerners are. But again, if you’re self conscious, you might prefer a private Onsen or the Shirahama Beach outdoor Onsen where swimwear is compulsory. Anyway, at Saki no Yu there were two pools for men (three in the women’s section, I’ve been told). The temperature was roughly the same in both pools, so that only the view and the distance to the sea seemed to differ. I used both pools. Even though it rained a bit, it was a nice, relaxing experience, enjoying the ocean view and the warm, soothing water.