Recommended Length: 3 Days
Nikko has eight onsen resort areas, each with its own water qualities. Indulge in pure hot spring relaxation in both secluded, rural retreats and some of the country's most popular baths.
The Best of Nikko's Hot Springs
Day 1
Kinugawa-Onsen Station
By bus
75 minutes on buses bound for Meotobuchi, then a 10-minute walk from the Kawamata-Heikeduka bus stop
Nature
Setoaikyo Canyon
Located upstream of the Kinugawa River, Setoaikyo Canyon is 100 meters deep with sheer cliffs extending for two kilometers. The breathtaking scenery is especially popular as the leaves change color from the middle of October to the beginning of November.
Nature
On Foot
30-minute walk
Lake
Lake Kawamata
Surrounded by mountains, Lake Kawamata is a dammed lake of the Kinugawa River. At the lake’s eastern end is a suspension bridge, offering views of the dam from one side, and Setoaikyo Canyon from the other. The blue of the lake is particularly vivid against the colors of the autumn leaves in October and November.
Nature
By bus
15 minutes from Kawamata-ohashi bus stop on buses bound for Meotobuchi. Get off at the Kanketsusen bus stop.
Accommodation
Kawamata Onsen
After passing the spectacular Setoaikyo Canyon and the south edge of Lake Kawamata, you will arrive at Kawamata Onsen. In addition to steam rising from the hot water, you’ll see a dramatic geyser or two alongside the river. The hotels and ryokans of this hot spring resort are dotted along the valley and lakeside, and have relaxing open-air baths from which you can enjoy the dramatic lake and mountain scenery.
HOT SPRING
End of Day 1
Day 2
Kawamata Onsen
By bus
7 minutes from the Kanketsusen bus stop by buses bound for Meotobuchi. Go to the final stop.
Hiking
Okukinu Nature Exploration Path
This hiking trail goes from Meotobuchi Onsen to Okukinu through Hatchonoyu, Kaniyu and Nikkozawa Onsen. Part of the hike is through primeval forest and takes in Orosohi Falls. Hiking the trail takes about one hour from Meotobuchi to Hatchonoyu, one and a half hours to Kaniyu, and two and a half hours to Nikkozawa Onsen. The course features significant inclines and declines and is recommended for more advanced hikers.
Hiking
On Foot
More than 90-minute walk
Accommodation
Okukinu Onsen
Okuniku Onsen is one of the hardest hot spring resorts to visit in the area. Cars are forbidden here, so it’s only accessible by ryokan shuttle bus or a 90-minute walk on a mountain road. Those travelers who take the time to visit are rewarded with abundant hot springs, unspoiled nature and complete seclusion—and in winter, the great pleasure of yukimiburo (bathing while taking in a snowy scene). There are four springs at Okuniku Onsen, each of which has different properties: Kaniyu, Hatchonoyu, Teshirozawa and Nikkozawa.
HOT SPRING
End of Day 2
Day 3
Okukinu Onsen
By bus
90 minutes from the Meotobuchi bus stop to Kinugawa-Onsen Station
Boat Ride
Kinugawa River Boat Tour
Experience the Kinugawa River on a motorless boat guided by a skillful boatman. During the 40-minute ride, enjoy gentle stretches, thrilling moments on rapids, views of changing seasons, and diverse rock formations.
Water Activities
By bus
5 minutes on a free shuttle back to Kinugawa-Onsen Station
Daytrip Onsen
Kinugawa Onsen
Kinugawa Onsen is actually made up of two hot springs—Taki Onsen on the west bank of the Kinugawa River, and Fujiwara Onsen on the east. It’s known for its relaxing properties and it attracts many travelers each year. Currently Kinugawa Onsen has over 80 hotels and ryokans, ranging from traditional Japanese style to modern Western style.
HOT SPRING
On Foot
Short walk