Where Festive Energy Meets Serene Luxury
Every year, Atagawa Onsen bursts into a powerful wave of excitement and historic tradition during the Ishibiki Dokan Festival—the town’s most anticipated celebration, honoring the legendary samurai and castle builder Ota Dokan.
The festival’s centerpiece is the hauling of massive, multi-ton stone pillars using thick ropes, where both locals and visitors pull together in unison. Conveniently, our inn, “Futari no Yuyado Yubana Mankai,” is located just a short walk from the heart of the action.
“I want to experience the festival excitement, but I also want peaceful, private time with my partner.”
If that is what you are looking for, Atagawa—and our intimate inn—offers the ultimate combination.
“When Everyone’s Hearts Beat as One, the Stone Moves” — A Former Samurai General’s Insider Tips
Not many know this, but I (the owner of Yubana Mankai) once had the honor of serving as a Samurai General (Samurai-Taisho) leading this very festival. Standing before the gathered crowd, inspiring everyone to give their all, and feeling that surge of collective energy is an experience I will never forget.
As a former Samurai General and a proud local, here is my top advice for experiencing the festival to its fullest:
1. Don’t just watch—join as a puller!
To truly feel the festival, you have to grab the rope. With the traditional cry of “Sore, dokkoi!”, tourists and locals become one team. The moment everyone’s timing and spirit align, the heavy stone suddenly glides forward as if by magic. That overwhelming sense of unity and shared triumph will give you goosebumps. It is so addictive that many travelers return year after year just to feel it again.
2. Savor the local street food and the grand finale of fireworks
Beyond the stone pulling, the streets come alive with local food stalls offering authentic regional delicacies. It is a wonderful chance to interact with the warm-hearted people of East Izu. And as night falls, the festival culminates in a breathtaking display of fireworks lighting up the night sky directly overhead. Experiencing that brilliant display in the crisp evening air, wrapped in the pleasant, satisfying fatigue of a day well spent, is pure magic.
From Festival Thrills to Private Sanctuary
After a day of cheering, laughing, and pulling alongside the community, you return to Yubana Mankai.
The moment you step through our doors, the vibrant energy of the festival gives way to profound, soothing silence. With only 16 rooms dedicated exclusively to adults, our inn offers six private hot spring baths where you can unwind together in absolute privacy.
Soaking in 100% natural, free-flowing hot spring water while sharing stories of the day’s excitement—this is the ultimate “festival journey” designed by those who know Atagawa best.
This season, come experience the perfect harmony of thrilling tradition and serene luxury at Yubana Mankai.
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