Hakone Kowakien Yunessun, which marked its 25th anniversary on January 1, 2026, is set to introduce a new seasonal bath experience — the "Milky Way Bath" — starting July 1, 2026 (Wednesday). This limited-time installation will be available in the swimwear hot spring area, inspired by the Japanese star festival, Tanabata.
Tanabata is one of Japan's most beloved summer traditions and one of the five seasonal festivals. On this day, people write wishes on small paper strips called tanzaku and hang them from bamboo branches, entrusting their wishes to the stars. The Milky Way — known as "Milky Way" in English — is where the two star-crossed lovers, Hikoboshi and Orihime, are said to meet just once a year. While the Milky Way can be observed throughout the year, summer is considered the best season to see it most clearly.
Milky Way Bath Features
The new "Milky Way Bath" transforms the indoor area into an otherworldly space beneath a domed ceiling displaying a sparkling starlit sky. Yunessun's official character Hakoneko Bozappy and his girlfriend Bong-Jar Non appear dressed as Hikoboshi and Orihime, dancing through the night sky. Star-shaped bath toys float on the water's surface, creating the sensation of swimming among the stars in the Milky Way.
As an added summer feature, the Milky Way Bath will be offered as a specially chilled hot spring — a welcome relief during the intense summer heat. Visitors can cool off in the bath while soaking in the atmosphere of a beautiful night sky, available throughout the event period.
Image is for illustrative purposes. Admission to the Yunessun swimwear area is required: Adults (junior high school students and above) from ¥2,500 (tax included), Children (ages 3 and above) from ¥1,400 (tax included).
Milky Way Bath Details
Venue: Swimwear Hot Spring "Yunessun," Indoor Area "Turkish Hammam"
Period: July 1, 2026 (Wednesday) — end date to be announced
Operating Hours:
- Weekdays: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Weekends & Holidays: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Scent: Vanilla
Photo Contest Also Running
The Yunessun swimwear area allows smartphones and cameras inside, and as part of the 25th anniversary celebration project, the "Yunessun NICO NICO Photo Contest" is currently underway. Visitors can capture memories in the park's unique baths and share them on social media.
About Hakoneko Bozappy
A cat who lives in the forests of Hakone and loves hot springs, Hakoneko Bozappy gets its name from its box-like appearance.
- Name: Hakoneko Bozappy
- Breed: Hakotisshu Fold (Hako species), with a yellow body
- Special skill: Dancing the samba
- Personality: Friendly and affectionate, always cheerful, though occasionally forgetful and prone to little mishaps
This summer, consider visiting Yunessun with friends, family, or a special someone to enjoy the Milky Way Bath and a refreshing break for body and mind.
