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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Okukinu Onsenkyo is a hot spring resort town of hidden hot springs scattered along the upper reaches of the Kinugawa River deep in Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture. It has a long history of being used for mountain work and as a therapeutic hot spring resort, and even today several inns remain along the valley, offering a tranquil environment where you can soak in hot springs in the midst of nature. You can enjoy untouched virgin forests and streams, as well as seasonal scenery (fresh greenery, deep greenery, autumn leaves, and snowscapes), and the area is characterized by its many open-air baths, mixed-gender outdoor baths, and hot spring inns that retain the traditional therapeutic hot spring culture.
Highlights
- Secret hot spring inns: Take a bath at hot spring inns that retain the traditional atmosphere, such as Kaniyu and Haccho no Yu.
- Rustic open-air baths and outdoor baths: The open-air baths facing the mountain stream and the mixed outdoor baths blending into nature are experiences you can only have here.
- Mountain and valley scenery: Clear streams close to their source, deep virgin forests of beech and oak, waterfalls and beautiful valleys that change appearance with the seasons.
- Hiking/Trekking: Using the accommodation as a base, you can go on short hikes or day treks through nearby valleys and walking trails.
- Experience the culture of toji: Enjoy simple cuisine and communal baths designed for toji, and spend a relaxing time.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Public transportation: Take a local bus or tourist bus from JR or Tobu stations around Nikko or Kinugawa to the trailhead or entrance into the interior of the area, and then walk from there, or use the accommodation's shuttle (advance reservation required) or a paid shuttle vehicle (4WD, etc.). The departure point and time of the shuttle varies depending on the accommodation, so be sure to check with your accommodation in advance.
- By car: You can access the parking lot/trailhead from Nikko city or Kinugawa Onsen via forest roads and mountain paths, but please drive carefully as the roads are narrow and in poor condition in some sections, and are closed during the winter. It may take around an hour to walk from the parking lot.
- Please note: Routes and roads are subject to seasonal restrictions. In particular, in winter, snowfall often blocks regular vehicles from entering, limiting access options. Be sure to check with your accommodation or transportation company for the latest information.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip: It is possible to combine a short bath with sightseeing in the surrounding area, but it can often feel hectic due to the long travel times.
- 1 night (2 days, 1 night): This is the best option for leisurely enjoying the hot springs and exploring the surrounding area. You can enjoy dinner and breakfast at the inn, bathing in the hot springs at night, and taking an early morning walk.
- 2 nights or more: Suitable for visiting multiple lodgings, trekking in the surrounding area, or combining it with sightseeing in Nikko (Toshogu Shrine, Lake Chuzenji, etc.).
Nearby spots
- Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Nikko Shrines and Temples: A magnificent group of shrines and temples that are a World Heritage Site (city side)
- Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls: A classic tourist attraction in Nikko, it is within driving distance from Oku-Kinu (travel time varies depending on the route).
- Kinugawa Onsen Town: Access point, tourist facilities, and activities such as river boating.
- Nearby natural parks and valleys: Nature walking spots and beautiful valleys in the Nikko National Park area.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Advance reservations: Accommodations are limited and fill up quickly, especially on weekends, consecutive holidays, and during the autumn foliage season. Please confirm shuttle service, bathing times, and meal times when making a reservation.
- Transportation and mobile phones: There are many mountainous areas where mobile phone reception is weak, and routes and roads may be closed depending on the season. Please check the latest traffic information with your accommodation or official local government.
- Cash/Payment: Smaller accommodations may not accept credit cards, so it's a good idea to have some cash on hand.
- Clothing and equipment: You will be walking on mountain trails and forest paths, so please bring waterproof footwear or trekking shoes, rain gear, a flashlight, etc. Insect repellent and cold weather gear are also essential depending on the season.
- Bathing etiquette: Please observe hot spring etiquette (pouring water over yourself, not putting towels in the water, and respecting the washing area). Please note that rules regarding tattoos and mixed bathing may differ depending on the accommodation, so be sure to check in advance.
- Protect the surrounding nature: Please follow the rules for protecting the nature, such as always taking your trash with you, not touching the plants and animals, and being careful with fire.
- Safety measures: Avoid climbing in bad weather and be careful not to slip or fall. Just in case, let your accommodation or the trailhead know your expected arrival time.
Okukinu Onsenkyo is an attractive place for those seeking "secret hot springs" and "a sense of oneness with nature." Access and accommodation conditions are often different from those of ordinary hot spring areas, so be sure to gather information and confirm reservations before visiting.
