Takaragawa Onsen

Onsen

Prefecture

Gunma

Type

Onsen

N/A

0 reviews

¥2,000

Entry Fee

Shuttle Bus

About This Destination

Famous for having some of Japan's largest mixed-gender open-air baths set along the Takara River in a mountain valley. The rustic riverside setting with 470 tatami mats of bathing space has appeared in numerous films and travel guides.

Four massive mixed-gender rotenburo baths line the banks of the Takara River, making this secluded mountain onsen one of Japan's most spectacular outdoor bathing experiences. The riverside boulders and forested mountainsides create a wild, natural atmosphere unlike typical hot spring resorts, with separate baths available for those preferring privacy. The journey to this remote Gunma valley rewards visitors with some of Japan's largest open-air pools, fed by waters said to benefit skin ailments and promote relaxation.

Location

Prefecture: Gunma

Address: Minakami, Gunma, Japan

Nearest Station: Minakami Station

Best time to visit: Autumn for riverside foliage at the large outdoor baths; snowy winter rotenburo are especially magical

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Takaragawa Onsen from Tokyo?

Take the Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo to Jomo-Kogen and continue by bus to JR Minakami, which together take about 70 minutes plus the bus leg. From Minakami Station, a bus reaches Takaragawa Onsen in about 40 minutes for around 1,150 yen; staying guests can use a free shuttle.

What is Takaragawa Onsen known for?

It has some of Japan's largest riverside open-air baths, running along the Takara River with a combined area of about 470 tatami mats. Several of the baths are mixed bathing, with rental yugi bathing wear available. In winter the pools sit rimmed with snow.

What are the day-visit fees and hours at Takaragawa Onsen?

Day visits cost 2,000 yen and run roughly from 10:00 to 16:00. Overnight stays are available at the Osenkaku ryokan. Winter is a good time to visit for the snow-rimmed baths, though access can be slower in heavy snow.