Vast Open-Air Baths in Harmony with Nature
Takaragawa Onsen is a hot spring area located in Minakami Town, Gunma Prefecture. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the four seasons, Takaragawa Onsen is situated along a picturesque mountain stream and is especially famous for its open-air baths. The spring water is alkaline simple hot spring, gentle on the skin, and reputed to have beautifying effects.
The biggest attraction of this onsen is its vast open-air baths, which are considered some of the largest in Japan. Visitors can indulge in the luxury of soaking in hot springs amidst the grandeur of nature, drawing many tourists. There are separate baths for men and women, as well as mixed-gender baths, all offering spacious areas to relax. The surrounding area is rich in outdoor activities like hiking and stream fishing, allowing visitors to fully enjoy nature. The autumn season is particularly stunning with beautiful fall foliage, providing a perfect combination with the hot springs. Meals feature fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for all guests.
The best seasons to visit Takaragawa Onsen are autumn and winter.
Autumn (September to November)
In autumn, the surrounding mountains are adorned with beautiful fall foliage, creating stunning scenery. The combination of autumn leaves and the open-air baths is exceptional, with the peak season being from mid-October to early November.
Winter (December to February)
In winter, you can experience soaking in hot springs amidst a snowy landscape. The snow-covered open-air baths are enchanting and highly popular. The beauty and tranquility are especially pronounced right after fresh snowfall.
Here’s how to get to Takaragawa Onsen from Tokyo:
By Train and Bus
- Take the JR Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Jomokogen Station. The journey takes about 70 minutes.
- From Jomokogen Station, take the Kanetsu Kotsu Bus to the Takaragawa Onsen bus stop. The bus ride takes about 50 minutes.
By Car
- From Tokyo, take the Kan-Etsu Expressway and exit at Minakami IC. The drive takes about 2 hours.
- From Minakami IC, head north on National Route 291 for about 30 minutes to reach Takaragawa Onsen. Parking is available.
Notes
- In winter, roads may be icy, so it is recommended to have snow tires or chains.
3 tourist spots
1. Mount Tanigawa
Mount Tanigawa is a beautiful mountain located about 40 minutes by car from Takaragawa Onsen. With an elevation of 1,977 meters, it is a popular spot for hiking and climbing. The ropeway allows even beginners to enjoy the stunning views from the summit easily. The autumn foliage is particularly breathtaking, attracting many visitors.
2. Minakami Onsen
Minakami Onsen is an area with numerous hot spring inns, located about 20 minutes by car from Takaragawa Onsen. You can stroll through the onsen town, enjoying foot baths and drinking hot spring water. In winter, it becomes a popular ski resort, offering activities like skiing and snowboarding.
3. Takinogawa Tourist Orchard
Located about 30 minutes by car from Takaragawa Onsen, Takinogawa Tourist Orchard offers seasonal fruit picking experiences. In autumn, you can enjoy picking fresh mandarin oranges and tasting them on the spot. It’s a fun spot for families and friends to spend a delightful time together.
7 Recommended ryokan hotels
1. Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku
Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku is renowned for its vast open-air baths, which are among the largest in Japan. The ryokan offers a range of accommodations, from traditional Japanese-style rooms to modern suites, each designed to provide a relaxing and comfortable stay. The rooms are equipped with tatami mats, futon bedding, and some even have private open-air baths.
Services: Guests can enjoy a variety of services, including traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, massage treatments, and seasonal outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing. The ryokan also provides a free shuttle service from Jomokogen Station.
Restaurants: The ryokan features a main dining hall where guests can savor kaiseki (multi-course) meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients. The dishes change seasonally, ensuring a unique dining experience with every visit. Breakfast is typically a Japanese-style meal, but Western options are available upon request.
Pricing: Rates start at approximately $250 per night per person, including breakfast and dinner.
2. Minakami Kogen Hotel 200
Minakami Kogen Hotel 200 is located near Takaragawa Onsen and offers a blend of traditional and Western-style accommodations. The hotel boasts spacious rooms with stunning mountain views, comfortable furnishings, and modern amenities.
Services: The hotel provides a range of recreational activities, including tennis, golf, and winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Guests can also enjoy the on-site hot spring baths and a fitness center.
Restaurants: The hotel features several dining options, including a buffet restaurant serving international cuisine, a Japanese restaurant offering traditional dishes, and a café for light snacks and beverages.
Pricing: Rates start at around $200 per night per person, including breakfast.
3. Ryokan Tanigawa
Ryokan Tanigawa is a traditional Japanese inn that offers a serene and authentic experience. The ryokan features elegant Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats, futons, and some rooms have private outdoor baths with scenic views.
Services: Guests can indulge in various traditional Japanese cultural experiences, such as yukata wearing and calligraphy. The ryokan also offers massage services and has a beautiful garden for guests to explore.
Restaurants: The on-site restaurant serves exquisite kaiseki meals, with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients. Breakfast is typically a traditional Japanese meal, providing a hearty start to the day.
Pricing: Rates start at about $220 per night per person, including breakfast and dinner.
4. Hotel Ichiyoutei
Hotel Ichiyoutei combines modern comforts with traditional Japanese hospitality. The hotel offers a variety of room types, including Japanese-style rooms and Western-style rooms, all equipped with modern amenities.
Services: Guests can relax in the hotel’s hot spring baths, which include both indoor and outdoor options. The hotel also offers a range of leisure activities, such as karaoke, table tennis, and a game room.
Restaurants: The hotel’s main dining area serves a variety of dishes, including both Japanese and Western cuisine. The meals are prepared with fresh, local ingredients, ensuring a delicious and satisfying dining experience.
Pricing: Rates start at approximately $180 per night per person, including breakfast.
5. Shima Onsen Kashiwaya Ryokan
Shima Onsen Kashiwaya Ryokan, though slightly further from Takaragawa, offers a quintessential ryokan experience. The inn features charming Japanese-style rooms with modern amenities, providing a perfect blend of tradition and comfort.
Services: The ryokan offers three private open-air baths that guests can reserve, ensuring a personal and tranquil bathing experience. Additionally, guests can participate in cultural activities such as tea ceremonies and traditional crafts.
Restaurants: The on-site restaurant serves gourmet kaiseki dinners, with an emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients. Breakfast includes both Japanese and Western options, catering to diverse tastes.
Pricing: Rates start at about $240 per night per person, including breakfast and dinner.
6. Bettei Senjuan
Bettei Senjuan is a luxurious ryokan that offers an intimate and exclusive experience. The ryokan features spacious suites with private open-air baths, elegant decor, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Services: Guests can enjoy personalized services, including private dining, in-room massages, and guided tours of the area. The ryokan also offers cultural experiences such as flower arranging and traditional music performances.
Restaurants: The dining experience at Bettei Senjuan is exceptional, with kaiseki meals prepared by skilled chefs using the finest ingredients. The menu changes seasonally, offering a unique culinary journey with each visit.
Pricing: Rates start at around $400 per night per person, including breakfast and dinner.
7. Tatsumikan
Tatsumikan is a charming ryokan known for its warm hospitality and traditional atmosphere. The inn features Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats, futons, and lovely views of the surrounding nature.
Services: The ryokan offers a range of services, including hot spring baths, massage treatments, and a souvenir shop selling local crafts and goods. Guests can also enjoy seasonal activities such as cherry blossom viewing in spring.
Restaurants: The on-site restaurant serves delicious kaiseki meals, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Breakfast is a traditional Japanese meal, but Western options are available upon request.
Pricing: Rates start at about $210 per night per person, including breakfast and dinner.