道後温泉椿の湯

Didn’t go inside but the outside was beautiful!

100% Recommended. A true locals onsen experience, which I appreciated! The staff here are so friendly - I got confused and lost my 100 Yen in the coin locker and she apologized and gave me the money back. She was so sweet! Also, if you don't carry cash they accept credit cards.

Authentically local experience. Mostly 👴 who seem like they've been going there for years, hanging out chatting whilst 🛀🧽..😅 The space is basic, yet spacious and airy due to the ultra high ceiling. I counted 28 stalls all around and the tub can easily fit 15-20 people. Go to the next door one for better decor, but this one feels just right to have a relaxing soak. There is also a small open-air space to catch some fresh air. Towel rental (50 yen) and soap/shampoo (50 each) available. Get the fruit milk from vending machine after! Its slight sweet and sour, almost taste like a yogurt drink.

Avoided the crowd at Dogo Onsen Main Building. Mainly a local crowd here. Managed through with basic Japanese. Went in for the normal soak for about 400yen, paid a bit more for a small towel and a tiny bar soap (bring your own soap!). Shoe rack is free, but there is payable shoe lockers. The lockers before the bath is payable. The total area for soak and bath is not huge, but decent. Came late so I missed the fruits milk at the vending machine. Recommend if you can manage basic Japanese and want to avoid the crowd at the main building.

A hot spring seem targeted for local people. The admission fee is 400 Yen and the facility is fair. The clothes locker is not free, although it is only 10 yen.