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The Onsen at Matsuzakaya Honten Has Been Awarded the "Bihada Onsen Certificate" for Its Skincare Benefits by the POLA ORBIS Group.

Oct.08.24

Founded in 1662 - Matsuzakaya Honten, Cherished Since the Edo Era
Located in Ashinoyu, one of Hakone's seven renowned hot springs that dates back to the Edo period, Matsuzakaya Honten is a historic onsen ryokan with a legacy of more than 360 years. Once known as “Gongen no Yu,” accessible only to select visitors such as ascetics, the hot springs of Hakone have been cherished as a therapeutic haven since the Edo era.

The onsen source of Matsuzakaya Honten, "Ashikari no Yu," is a rare blend containing three of Japan's most reputed beautifying spring qualities: sulfur spring, sulfate spring, and bicarbonate spring. Known for its skincare benefits and effectiveness in treating skin diseases, the waters have also been acclaimed for relieving ailments such as rheumatism and neuralgia. This time, rather than focusing on the spring’s natural components, we conducted a new survey that examined the "bathwater" itself, paying special attention to its skin-beautifying properties.

What is the “Bihada Onsen Certificate”?
This certificate is awarded to onsen ryokan whose waters have been scientifically analyzed for their effects on the skin's outer layer and natural oils and are confirmed to meet the criteria for one of seven types of beautifying hot springs. Issued by POLA ORBIS Holdings, a leading name in Japan’s cosmetics industry, this certification reflects the company’s dedication to “the perpetual happiness of people and society,” which also extends to their commitment to the arts in Hakone.
In the latest survey, Matsuzakaya Honten’s onsen was recognized as a "Melting Purifying Hot Spring," known to promote soft and hydrated skin.

Timeless Beauty - The "Bihada no Yu" of Matsuzakaya Honten
Hakone’s Ashinoyu Onsen has a long history, with references dating back to the Nara period. In 2015, it was designated as a "National Recreation Onsen Area" by the Japanese government, the only one in Kanagawa Prefecture, for its qualities suitable for physical and mental wellness. Now, in 2023, Matsuzakaya Honten’s onsen has again proven its skin-beautifying benefits through the latest scientific analysis. The onsen is available in all guest rooms, the newly renovated public bath, and five private baths, all complimentary during your stay. The spring water is sourced directly from the hot spring with a flow of 200 liters per minute.

▼ Matsuzakaya Honten
・Official Website: https://kinnotake-resorts.com/matsuzakayahonten/
・Learn more about Matsuzakaya Honten’s Ashikari no Yu Onsen

▼ POLA ORBIS Group’s “Bihada Onsen Certificate” Recognition
・POLA ORBIS Holdings Co., Ltd. Press Release