Airport Spa Series: Yamato no Yu in Narita, Japan 大和の湯

   Technically, this isn't really an airport spa, but if you're in Narita, this is certainly the next best thing and a much needed respite.

  Narita town has 2 bath houses nearby, one is Hana no Yu, and the other is Yamato no Yu, both are about one train station away from Narita but Hana no Yu is in more of an urban setting, and thus, it can get a bit more crowded; Yamato no Yu on the other hand is mostly in a countryside setting and has more of an upscale feel to it.

  If it's not clear by now, my vote goes for Yamato no Yu (although the other is easier to access, so it would be the choice if you're in a hurry or if it's raining). 

  Yamato no Yu's website has a handy access map which should help you make it there without getting lost. From Narita town, access is quite simple, take the JR Narita like one stop towards Shimousa Manzaki station (下総松崎駅), they usually depart from track number 6, but if in doubt as to what train to take, just ask the station attendant and they will gladly point you to the right track, just make sure to write down the station name in case you need help, train fare is less than 200yen. 

  Fortunately there's only one station exit so no way of getting lost, just exit and follow this handy map, the walk itself is only about 15 minutes at a good pace, you will always more or less follow the direction of the train tracks and you shouldn't stray too far from them as a reference.   


  The walk itself is actually quite pleasant, I've always been there at night and it's quite a nice atmosphere, getting a feel of rural Japan while being so close to Tokyo, the only reminder of where you are is the occasional rumble from a big jet taking off or landing out of Narita airport.  It goes without saying that even if it's dark, it's quite safe so not much to worry about except for the cars passing by and not having a sidewalk. If you are so inclined, there are also taxis outside of the train station.

  After a while walking, this shall be the reference for turning right, cross the train tracks again and you're almost there.  The spa itself is a very nice building next to a big forest and rice field, an ideal setting for relaxation.

  There's a couple of interesting restaurants and a relaxation lounge inside. The baths are very nice and varied, with 3 floors to enjoy and 2 of the floors having open air features, you can dip in bubbles, murky water and an outside stone bath, or enjoy some time in the dry and steam saunas. There's enough water to keep you entertained quite a while.


  The times I've visited here was because I was staying in Narita town, however, if only connecting at Narita airport, I don't really recomend going here unless you have 4-5 hours between flights, you can probably squeeze in with slightly less time but you'd be really cutting it close and you'll be in such a hurry that you probably won't be able to enjoy the experience as much as you should.


  Yamato no Yu is open from 10am to 10pm, seven days a week. Click here for current admission prices. Last time I was there it was 700 yen plus 200 yen for the small bath towel which is yours to keep.