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With the manager Atsuo Nagano, in front of the entrance — With the manager *Atsuo Nagano*, in front of the entrance

We visited “Nakama Onsen” in Yamakunimachi Nakama, Nakatsu, Ōita. The name “Nakama Onsen” drives from the address “Nakama.”

Jyunko welcomed us with a smile at the reception.

The dressing room is big and clean. It is well maintained. Also, there are lockers to keep your valuables safe.

There is a big bathtub in the bathroom which is filled with clear simple thermal spring. And when you get in the bath, you would be surprised with the touch of the water. It is really soft and smooth as if your body were softly wrapped around with the water.

The pH value of Nakama Onsen is 8.95 which is high alkaline. It is quite unusual in hot springs in Oita Prefecture. Also, please be noted that the floor is very slippery due to this high-alkaline water. Make sure to watch your feet.

Yoshiyuki is a frequent bather coming from Hita. He is 80 years old and always comes to Nakama Onsen when he is suffered with back pain. He said taking a long soak at Nakama Onsen can ease the pain very well.

Nakama Onsen was drilled by 14 local people in 1999 for promoting the village, and opened as a public bathhouse in 2001. In the past, the entire area was a rice field, and when it snowed, the snow didn’t pile up only at this location. That’s is the reason why they assumed there is a hot spring source below the ground here.

The manager Atsuo is the chief monk of Myoenji Temple located next to Nakama Onsen. This temple opened in 1505 and has over 500 years of history. You can visit this temple as well after taking a bath in Nakama Onsen.