Tokyo Onsen Travel Notes | Jindaiji Temple, Historic Charm, Buckwheat Noodles, and Healing Black Water Hot Springs

If it weren’t for Minako Sakurai’s exhibition, Chofu—a hidden gem near Tokyo—might never have made it onto my travel list! Visiting in person revealed a magical place where ancient sites, delicious food, and hot springs blend seamlessly into a manga-like setting. 🏨 Accommodation Recommendation: Stay at Toyoko Inn, conveniently located near Chofu Station. While the double rooms aren’t particularly spacious, they can just about fit a 28-inch suitcase. The self-service check-in is user-friendly, and staff are patient in guiding first-time users. Breakfast was a delightful surprise, featuring Chofu’s local specialty buckwheat noodles—a perfect start to an energetic day! 🍜 Culinary Delights in Chofu: Here, buckwheat noodles dominate all three meals of the day! The area around Jindaiji Temple is filled with specialty noodle shops, often bustling with long queues during meal times. I picked a relatively quiet spot at random, and the springy noodles paired with rich broth were a pleasant surprise with every bite! However, beware of the snack in the photo—it’s overly salty and not recommended. 🏯 Breathing in Ancient Serenity: The shaded trees and flowing streams of Jindaiji Temple act as natural healers. I was lucky to catch a special event honoring Gansan Daishi, featuring Japan’s largest statue of the revered figure. Mornings see lines of worshippers, while afternoons are perfect for leisurely strolls and making travel wishes. Nearby, the Jindai Botanical Garden was hosting a rose exhibition, where visitors were immersed in flower appreciation and photography without the usual noisy crowds—a pure and touching floral experience. ♨️ Black Water Hot Spring Adventure: As night fell, I ventured into "Yumori no Sato" to experience the black water hot springs! Though initially confused by the towel rental system (still a mystery to me 🤣), I mustered the courage to complete the full process—from shoe storage and receiving a wristband to dining and soaking in the baths. I even indulged in a massage service! For 6,500 yen, I enjoyed a hot spring with a cola-like hue. Accidentally tasting the salty water added a unique twist to the experience. Every moment in Chofu felt like stepping into a heartwarming slice-of-life anime! Highly recommended for those seeking to escape the urban hustle and embrace a slower pace of life.