Time Capsule: Ureshino City, Saga
In the depths of winter, when the steam from the drains rises thick and white against the cold air, Ureshino Onsen transforms. Known across Japan as one of the “Top Three Skin-Beautifying Hot Springs,” this quiet town offers a different kind of warmth from January 24 to February 8, 2026.
The Ureshino Attaka Matsuri (Ureshino Warmth Festival) is not a loud, flashing spectacle. It is a gentle, glowing embrace. Under the theme “Twilight Art Museum,” the streets of the hot spring district are lined with artistically crafted lanterns, casting a soft, paper-filtered light that invites visitors to slow down, breathe in the steam, and reconnect with the warmth of human hospitality.
Unveiling the Essence: The Twilight Art Museum
The festival reimagines the entire town as an open-air gallery. As dusk falls, hundreds of lanterns—many handcrafted by local artists and children—flicker to life.
- The Aesthetic: Unlike the LED dazzle of city illuminations, Ureshino relies on the organic warmth of paper and ceramic lanterns (utilizing the region’s famous Hizen Yoshida porcelain heritage). The light is soft, designed to complement the traditional ryokan architecture and the rising steam of the hot springs.
- The Atmosphere: It is a romantic, contemplative vibe. The “Warmth” (Attaka) in the title refers not just to the temperature, but to the feeling of Omotenashi (hospitality) that permeates the town.
Your Insider Odyssey: Savoring the Warmth
1. The “Attaka-dokoro” (Warmth Spots)
The festival establishes designated resting spots known as “Attaka-dokoro.” These are not just waiting rooms; they are hubs of interaction where locals offer tea, sweets, and conversation. It is a rare opportunity to bridge the gap between tourist and resident.
2. The Gastronomy of Warmth
You cannot visit Ureshino without tasting its soul food: Onsen Yudofu (Hot Spring Tofu).
- The Chemistry: Ureshino’s alkaline thermal water performs a culinary miracle when boiling tofu—it dissolves the proteins, turning the water into a milky, soy-soup and the tofu into a texture akin to melting silk.
- The Festival Menu: During the festival, local eateries offer limited-time “Attaka” menus. Look for dishes that incorporate Ureshino Tea (a prize-winning local tea) and the famous tofu.
3. The Skin-Beautifying Soak
The festival is best experienced in a yukata (cotton kimono). Start with a soak in the famous “Bihada no Yu” (Skin Beautifying Water). The sodium bicarbonate spring water emulsifies skin and secretions, washing them away and leaving skin smooth and rejuvenated. Then, step out into the lantern-lit streets, your body radiating heat against the cool night air.
Elite Navigator’s Codex: Strategic Logistics
The opening of the West Kyushu Shinkansen has made Ureshino more accessible than ever, but the “last mile” requires planning.
- The Station Gap: The JR Ureshino Onsen Station (Shinkansen stop) is located about 1.5km from the main hot spring town center.
- The Walk: It is a 20-minute walk. In winter, this can be chilly, though the route is well-paved.
- The Bus: Taking the bus to “Ureshino Onsen Bus Center” is the most efficient method (approx. 5-10 mins).
- Timing the Lights: The lanterns typically light up at sunset (around 17:30 – 18:00). Arrive in the afternoon to visit a public bath, have an early dinner of Onsen Tofu, and then walk the illuminated streets.
- Weekend vs. Weekday: Weekends feature more events and pop-up stalls, but weekdays offer a serene, almost private viewing experience of the lantern art.
Kyushu Codex: Instant Insights
| Feature | Details | Expert Reference Tip |
| Dates | Jan 24 – Feb 8, 2026 | A two-week window of warmth. |
| Theme | Twilight Art Museum | Look for the Hizen Yoshida porcelain lanterns. |
| Key Food | Onsen Yudofu | Tofu cooked in spa water; a must-eat. |
| Location | Ureshino Onsen District | The main street is the center of action. |
| Access | JR Ureshino Onsen Stn | Take the bus to the town center. |
| Vibe | Romantic / Relaxing | Perfect for couples or solo retreaters. |
FAQ Nexus: Essential Knowledge
Q: Is there an admission fee?
Walking through the town to view the lanterns is free. However, specific events, workshops, or entering certain “Attaka-dokoro” experiences may have small fees or require food purchases.
Q: How do I get there from Hakata (Fukuoka)?
Take the Relay Kamome express train from Hakata Station to Takeo-Onsen Station, then transfer across the platform to the West Kyushu Shinkansen to Ureshino Onsen Station. The total journey is approximately 1 hour.
Q: Can I drink the hot spring water?
Yes, in specific spots. Ureshino water is drinkable (and used for cooking tofu!). Look for the drinking fountains, but drink in moderation as it is mineral-rich.
Q: Is it snowy in Ureshino in late January?
It is rare for snow to pile up, but flurries are possible. The juxtaposition of snow and the warm lantern light is considered a lucky, photogenic bonus. Dress in layers.
Q: What is “Ureshino Tea”?
Ureshino is the birthplace of Japanese tea cultivation (dating back to the 1400s). It is famous for Tamaryokucha (coiled tea), which has a distinctively rich, savory flavor. Be sure to visit a tea shop during the festival.
Coda
The Ureshino Attaka Matsuri is a reminder that warmth is not just a physical sensation—it is an emotion. Surrounded by the gentle glow of art and the steam of ancient waters, you will find that the chill of winter simply melts away.