Hakone Kowakien Yunessun, celebrating its 25th anniversary on January 1, 2026, presents the SDGs-inspired special bath "Cacao Husk Bath" at its authentic day-trip hot spring facility "Motoyu Mori no Yu" from February 1 to February 28, 2026.
With Valentine's Day approaching on February 14, when chocolate is traditionally given to loved ones in Japan, Mori no Yu partners with a chocolate factory in Odawara, the gateway to Hakone, to create this sustainable bath experience using cacao husks from the chocolate manufacturing process.
What Are Cacao Husks?
Cacao husks are the seed coats of cacao beans. These fibrous and hard shells emerge during cacao bean processing for chocolate production. For many years, they were discarded because their inclusion in chocolate would negatively affect texture and flavor. However, with recent increased focus on achieving SDGs goals, sustainable initiatives have gained attention. Rather than being discarded, cacao husks are now utilized in various applications such as dyeing materials and aromatic fragrances. Mori no Yu contributes to cacao husk upcycling through this SDGs-inspired special bath, making effective use of limited resources.
Health and Beauty Benefits
Beyond sustainability, cacao husks offer numerous health benefits. Like chocolate, cacao husks contain polyphenols with antioxidant properties, expected to help prevent skin aging such as spots, wrinkles, and sagging. They also contain theobromine for improved blood circulation, anti-inflammatory properties to suppress skin inflammation, and cacao ceramides that help maintain skin firmness and moisture. These components provide potential skincare and rejuvenation effects, while the sweet, gentle chocolate-like aroma delivers relaxation benefits.
During the harsh winter cold when health concerns increase, bathing in the Cacao Husk Bath promotes both physical and mental wellness while offering an opportunity to experience SDGs firsthand. This unique chocolate-inspired bathing experience can only be enjoyed at Mori no Yu.
Cacao Husk Bath Details
Location: Motoyu Mori no Yu indoor bath (men's and women's baths)
Period: February 1, 2026 to February 28, 2026
Operating Hours: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Last admission: 7:30 PM)
Admission Fee: Adults (junior high school students and above) from ¥1,500 (tax included), Children (ages 3 and above) from ¥1,000 (tax included)
Note: Admission fee to Motoyu Mori no Yu (hot spring area) is required.
About Hakone Kowakien Yunessan
Hakone Kowakien Yunessun opened as an all-weather hot spring theme park in 2001. After undergoing the largest-scale renovation since its opening in 2023, it celebrated its 25th anniversary on January 1, 2026. The facility makes maximum use of abundant hot spring water flowing from its own source and idle land, developing various content as a complex experience resort facility. As a must-visit destination in Hakone, it aims to energize the entire Hakone Kowakien area while contributing to the revitalization of the Hakone region.
Official Website: https://www.yunessun.com/
