Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Ikaho Onsen is an ancient hot spring located in Shibukawa City, Gunma Prefecture, and is a hot spring resort characterized by its stone steps and two types of spring water. Its origins as a hot spring resort are ancient, and it has long been popular as a therapeutic hot spring resort, with an inn district and pilgrimage routes developed from the Edo period onwards. The Ikaho Stone Steps (said to be 365 stone steps) that stretch through the centre of the hot spring town are a symbolic presence, with souvenir shops, restaurants and inns lined up along the stone steps, retaining a retro Showa-era atmosphere.
Another attraction of Ikaho is the difference in the quality of its spring water. You can enjoy two types of water: "Kogane no Yu" (Golden Hot Spring), which is rich in iron and has a murky brown color, and "Shirogane no Yu" (Silver Hot Spring), which is colorless and clear and feels good on the skin. The waters are generally said to be effective for neuralgia, muscle pain, sensitivity to cold, and fatigue recovery (though the effects may vary from person to person). Another attraction is the natural and cultural aspects of the surrounding mountains and nearby tourist spots (such as Mount Haruna).
Highlights
-
Ikaho Stone Steps Street (Stone Steps Street)
A total of 365 stone steps run through the hot spring town. Along the steps, there are souvenir shops, footbaths, restaurants, shooting galleries and other recreational facilities, making it a fun area to stroll around. At the top of the steps is Ikaho Shrine, where you can worship and enjoy the view. -
Golden hot spring and silver hot spring
The brown "Golden Hot Spring" is an iron-containing spring, and has a distinctive appearance. The clear "Silver Hot Spring" is pleasant to the touch, and some facilities offer both. You can bathe in the day-trip bathing facilities, large public baths at inns, or private baths. -
Ikaho Ropeway and Observation Spot (surrounding area)
From the surrounding hills and observation points, you can see the city of Shibukawa and the distant mountains. The evening and night views are especially beautiful. -
Ikaho Green Ranch
This popular facility is perfect for families, and offers opportunities to interact with animals, flower fields, and seasonal events (accessible by car). -
Local gourmet
The local specialty, Mizusawa udon, is a popular local delicacy, and you can enjoy hot spring manju and other local delicacies in the hot spring town.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
-
Train + Bus
Access by bus from Shibukawa Station, which is served by the JR Agatsuma Line and Joetsu Line, or the nearest area in the Isobe/Mizusawa area. From Shibukawa Station, there is a bus bound for Ikaho Onsen (about 25-30 minutes). The number of buses varies depending on the time of day, so please check the timetable in advance. -
car
It's about 20-30 minutes from Shibukawa-Ikaho IC on the Kan-etsu Expressway (depending on traffic conditions). From Tokyo (Nerima), it takes about 2 hours. Parking lots in the hot spring town get crowded on weekends and during peak seasons, so we recommend arriving early. -
Express bus/direct bus
Depending on the season and time of year, direct express buses and tour buses may operate from Tokyo. Please check the official websites of travel agencies and route bus companies for operation information. -
taxi
It's about a 15-25 minute taxi ride from Shibukawa Station, which is convenient if you have a lot of luggage or want to save time.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip: Walking around the stone steps and taking a day trip to the hot springs (half a day to a full day, 3 to 6 hours)
- Two days and one night: A relaxing stay, including a hot spring bath in the evening and a morning stroll (one night recommended)
- Relaxed stay: 1-2 nights if you combine it with sightseeing in the surrounding area (Mount Haruna, Ikaho Green Ranch, etc.)
Nearby spots
- Mount Haruna (Lake Haruna and Haruna Shrine): Within a 30-40 minute drive, you can enjoy hiking, strolling along the lake, and visiting shrines.
- Ikaho Green Ranch: A leisure facility for families. Includes animal encounters and hands-on events.
- Mizusawa Udon Shop District (Shibukawa/Mizusawa area): You can enjoy our famous chewy udon noodles.
- Tourist facilities in Shibukawa City: Parks, local museums, local festivals and events (held seasonally), etc.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Walking on stone steps: The stone steps have uneven steps and can be difficult to walk on in some places. Please be careful of your footing and avoid heels or slippery shoes. If you have luggage, please leave it at your accommodation or consider taking a taxi.
- congestion: The area gets crowded with tourists on weekends, national holidays, Golden Week, summer vacation, and during the autumn foliage season. If you want to enjoy a leisurely stroll, we recommend weekdays or early morning/evening strolls.
- Bathing etiquette and tattoos: Please observe bathing etiquette in hot springs (wash with soap before entering the bath, avoid using towels in the bath, etc.). Many public baths and inns may refuse entry to people with tattoos, so please check with the facility in advance.
- Seasonal precautions: In winter, snow and ice can make stone steps and paths slippery. Please bring warm, non-slip shoes. In summer, humidity can be high, so please take precautions against heatstroke.
- Payment and sales information: Some small souvenir shops and restaurants only accept cash. Opening hours and closing days vary by store, so be sure to check before visiting.
- Environmental conservation and local customs: Please put your trash in the designated place, stay quiet, and be considerate of local residents.
Additional advice: There are many photo spots along the stone steps. If you stroll around in the quiet morning or in the soft light of the evening, you can avoid the crowds and take pictures with a more picturesque feel. If you are staying overnight, choose an inn with baths of different spring qualities so you can enjoy both.
