Hojen Square

A group of school kids on a field trip. The hats help the teachers keep track of their students. There will be different groups of students out at the same time and they will have hats unique to their class. Next to the Ashi-yu there is a suggestion box shaped like the Ashi-yu. The backpacks the children are wearing are outing backpacks and not the formal school backpacks that cost a small fortune. The formal backpacks are traditionally purchased for the children by the grandparents.

Hojen Square

The area outside of Dogo Onsen is a popular meeting spot. Besides the Ashi-yu, there is a Meiji era station, a shopping district and other attractions. It is also a place to meet someone for a walk around town or find a place to eat. Many school outings begin and end in the area near the Ashi-yu.

Ashi-yu

Ashi-yu are Japanese foot bath's. Outside Dogo Onsen there are nine for visitors to sit down at, remove their shoes and socks and enjoy a free soak in the wonderfully warm spring water. This Ashi-yu is the most popular one outside Dogo Onsen. It is located in Hojen Square, opposite Dogo Onsen and the train station.

Lonely Plant Guide to Dogo Onsen