Japan Opens Revamped Hot Spring and Immersive Experience Centers

The natural hot‑spring facility Houtenno Yu in Ichikawa, Chiba Prefecture, reopened on 6 August after a large‑scale renovation that marked the 20th anniversary of its original opening. The upgrade added a sauna, open‑air bath, a new dining area, cashless payment options and revised admission fees, and the venue held a two‑day opening event with special menu prices and promotional giveaways.

A separate attraction, the immersive experience centre Kobito Hakubutsukan, is set to open on 12 August at Aeon Lake Town Mori in Koshigaya, Saitama Prefecture. The roughly 100‑pyeong venue recreates the world of the popular "Kobito" picture‑book series with life‑size figures, interactive displays, a large diorama and exclusive merchandise, including trading cards. Admission will be ticketed and a pre‑opening merchandise area began operating on 17 July.