Kinugawa Onsen Hotel, A historic hot spring retreat amidst scenic valleys

Sumiya, Aizu Nishi-kaido, Nikko, Shioya, Tochigi, Japan

Autumn is the season to enjoy hot springs while admiring the red leaves

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Introduction

Kinugawa Onsen is one of the most representative hot spring tourist destinations in North Kanto region of Japan. It is located on the banks of a valley between the Oyama Mountains and the Shikagatake Mountains in the central part of Tochigi Prefecture. The hot spring town has a history of more than 300 years and has been known as the "town of secret hot springs" since its establishment in 1691. In the past, only daimyos and monks traveling to Nikko on pilgrimages could bathe in the hot springs. It was not until the Meiji period that the beautiful hot springs in the mountains were opened to the general public. There is a legend that there are "evil spirits" in Kinugawa Onsen that drive away evil and attract good fortune. The angry copper statue on the square in front of Kinugawa Onsen Station is the local guardian deity, Kinugawa Tai. Actually, Kinugawa is the name of the small stream that runs through the area. The hot spring street is built on both sides of the stream. Along the Kinugawa valley, there are hotels arranged along the river that emit a strong Japanese atmosphere. There are not only long-established hot spring ryokans and large hotels, but also many tourist facilities worth visiting, making it an unforgettable experience. The transportation to Kinugawa Onsen from Tokyo is also very convenient, attracting many tourists every year.

Address

Sumiya, Aizu Nishi-kaido, Nikko, Shioya, Tochigi, Japan