Yumura Onsen Neighborhood, Hyogo

Japan’s hottest hot springs can be found in this small village, Yumura, where the water temperature goes up to 98 degrees Celsius. Once a year, the community gets together to give thanks to the Buddhist monk Ennin (Jikaku-Daishi), who discovered these hot springs in the 9th century. The highlight is the Shobu Tug of War where locals and tourists together pull the 40-ton rope that is 100 meters long and 50 centimeters thick. This rope is handcrafted by local residents the day before by weaving together the sweet flag plant shobu, which signifies good health.