Japan Guide : Ikaho Onsen in Gunma (群馬県)
Ikaho Onsen （伊香保温泉）is a historic hot spring resort located in the city of Shibukawa, in the Gunma Prefecture of Japan. It is renowned for its soothing waters and scenic views, nestled on the slopes of Mount Haruna. The onsen has been a popular destination for relaxation and wellness for centuries, dating back to the Edo period.
Ikaho Onsen is also famous for its seasonal beauty, with cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant foliage in autumn, and a peaceful winter atmosphere. The town is an ideal spot for anyone looking to experience traditional Japanese onsen culture in a picturesque setting.
3 Things to do at Ikaho
- Take 2 kinds onsen
In Ikaho, visitors can enjoy two types of hot springs: “golden hot water” and “silvery white water”.
Originally, the only hot spring in Ikaho was “golden hot water” characterized by its color. The golden hot water was called “golden hot water” because the iron contained in the hot water oxidizes and turns a distinctive brownish-brown color. This soft, non-irritating water warms the body from the core and promotes blood circulation, making it especially popular among women as a “fertility hot spring”. It has also been popular as a therapeutic bath for a long time because it is good for recuperating from illnesses and injuries.
The hot spring “Shiragin-no-yu” is colorless and transparent, and its abundant flow of 110 liters per minute was confirmed in recent years. This hot spring is known to be good for recovery from illness and fatigue, as well as for improving health.
- Enjoy 365 steps!
Famous since long ago, Ikaho Onsen is famous for its 365 stone steps.
These stone steps are built with the wish that the hot spring resort will be bustling with people 365 days a year.
There was a plaza where visitors could experience footbaths on the stone steps, a “hot spring waterfall” with hot spring water flowing through it, and a store where visitors could play target shooting. (I was the most addicted to it, even more than my children.)
Souvenir shops, Manju (bun filled with red bean paste) shops, and playgrounds are lined up across the stone staircase, and the hot spring atmosphere is very appealing to tourists.
- Have a relaxing time at the Ryokan
The town offers a variety of accommodations, from luxurious ryokan with private hot spring baths to more affordable guesthouses. In addition to enjoying the baths, visitors can explore local attractions such as the Haruna Shrine, which is located near the top of the stone steps and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
My family and I stayed at the Fukuichi (福一). At dinner at the ryokan, we were treated to a kaiseki dinner featuring local and seasonal ingredients, which made for a very satisfying three-generation trip for parents and children.
Local Foods that I recommend
- Onsen manju
Related Video :
この投稿をInstagramで見る
Location:
