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Kawaji Onsen (Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture)
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Kawaji Onsen is a quiet hot spring resort located upstream of the Kinugawa River, with inns and lodgings dotted along the mountain stream. It has been popular as a therapeutic hot spring resort since the Edo and Meiji periods, and was developed as a tourist destination after the war. The hot spring town is surrounded by nature, and is attractive for its beautiful valleys and seasonal scenery (especially fresh greenery, autumn leaves, and snowscapes). Many of the inns have open-air baths and private baths along the river, allowing you to enjoy the hot springs in peace and quiet, making them popular.
Highlights
- Hot spring town along the valley and river: You can enjoy a stroll in a calm atmosphere, viewing the stream from the walking paths and bridges along the river.
- Ryuokyo Gorge: A popular nearby spot, the suspension bridge and walking trails offer up-close views of the gorge, its strange rock formations, and waterfalls (the autumn foliage is especially beautiful).
- Footbaths and public baths: There are footbaths and public baths where you can easily experience the hot springs, so you can enjoy the hot spring feeling even on a day trip.
- Nature around Kawaji Dam: Enjoy nature walks and photography around the dam lake and surrounding forest.
- Meals at the inn: Guests can enjoy kaiseki cuisine made with local mountain produce and river fish (seasonal river fish, wild vegetables, etc.).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train + Bus (from Tokyo): Take the Tobu Railway Limited Express (departing from Asakusa) towards Kinugawa. From stations in the Kinugawa or Kawaji direction, take a local bus or taxi. The journey from Asakusa by express train takes around 2 hours (depending on connections).
- Nearest station: Access by bus or taxi from the nearest station in the area (e.g. Kawajiyumoto Station, Kinugawa Onsen Station, etc.). Many accommodations offer shuttle services, so it's convenient to check when making a reservation.
- By car: Take the Tohoku Expressway (towards Imaichi and Utsunomiya) or the Nikko-Utsunomiya Road to the site. Parking availability and number of spaces varies depending on the accommodation. Estimated travel time from Tokyo is approximately 2 to 2.5 hours (varies depending on traffic conditions).
- Please note: There are not many buses running, so we recommend checking the timetable in advance and using your accommodation's shuttle service.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip: If you want to enjoy a foot bath, a stroll, a day trip to the hot springs, and a meal, it will take about 4 to 6 hours.
- 1 night: If you want to relax at a hot spring inn and combine it with sightseeing in the surrounding area (such as a stroll through Ryuokyo Gorge), a 2-day, 1-night stay is the standard.
- Relaxed stay: If you plan to visit hot springs and sightseeing in the surrounding area (such as sightseeing in Nikko city or the Yunishigawa area), we recommend staying at least two nights.
Nearby spots
- Ryuokyo Gorge: Close by on foot or by car. With well-maintained walking trails and observation spots, it's perfect for hiking.
- Kinugawa Onsen: Convenient if you want to enjoy tourist facilities, sightseeing boats, and the bustle of the hot spring town.
- Nikko Shrines and Temples (Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine, etc.): The World Heritage Site is about 40-60 minutes by car (varies depending on traffic conditions).
- Yunishigawa Onsen: A hot spring resort known for its secret hot springs and Kamakura Festival. Seasonal events are a highlight.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: During the autumn foliage season (October to November), long weekends, and holidays, the number of tourists increases, and accommodations and surrounding roads become crowded. Make your accommodation reservations early and plan your itinerary with ample time.
- Transportation: There are some sections where buses are infrequent. We recommend using your accommodation's shuttle service to arrive at the destination in time, or consider arranging a taxi or rental car.
- Winter roads and clothing: As this is a mountainous area, snow and ice may accumulate in winter. Chain regulations and winter tires may be required. Please be sure to take sufficient cold weather precautions.
- Onsen etiquette: Please observe general bathing etiquette, such as pouring water over yourself before bathing, not putting your towel in the bathtub, and following the rules of the accommodation regarding tattoos. Many accommodations do not allow people with tattoos.
- Consideration for the natural environment: Please cooperate in protecting the local environment by refraining from bringing trash with you and making noise around streams and walking trails.
When planning your trip, it's a good idea to check in advance the nearest station to the inn you want to stay at, pick-up and drop-off information, winter road information, and local bus schedules. Enjoy the nature and famous hot springs of the four seasons at this quiet valley hot spring.
