Kinugawa Onsen
Healing Waters in the Mountain Gorge
Kinugawa Onsen was discovered in 1692 during the Edo period, initially serving as a therapeutic bath for monks and feudal lords. The town's name comes from the Kinugawa River ('silk river'), which flows through a dramatic gorge with sheer rock walls. For over 200 years, the hot springs were restricted to Buddhist monks from nearby Nikko and samurai of the ruling class, earning it the nickname 'the secret bath of Nikko.'
After the Meiji Restoration in 1868, Kinugawa opened to commoners and gradually developed into a resort. The opening of the Tobu railway line in 1929 made the area accessible from Tokyo, transforming it into one of the Kanto region's premier hot spring destinations. Large resort hotels were built along the river, taking advantage of the gorge views and proximity to Nikko's shrines and temples just 20 minutes away.
Today, Kinugawa Onsen serves as a convenient base for visiting Nikko's World Heritage sites while enjoying hot spring baths. The town offers a mix of large resort hotels and traditional ryokan, most with views of the Kinugawa Gorge. The area has diversified with theme parks like Tobu World Square and Nikko Edomura (Edo Wonderland), making it popular with families. The river's scenic beauty, particularly during autumn foliage season, continues to attract visitors seeking both cultural experiences and natural relaxation.
Key Highlights
- Scenic hot spring town along dramatic river gorge
- Only 20 minutes from Nikko's World Heritage sites
- Kinugawa River boat rides through the gorge
- Large resort hotels with river-view rotemburo
- Nearby attractions: Tobu World Square, Edo Wonderland
- Beautiful autumn foliage reflected in the river
Access Information
Location
Kinugawa Onsen, Nikko, Tochigi 321-2522, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Kinugawa-Onsen Station (Tobu Kinugawa Line)
Opening Hours
Town: 24 hours | Hotels check-in typically 15:00, check-out 10:00
Admission Fee
Public facilities vary | Day-use onsen at hotels: ¥1,000-2,000 | River boat rides: ¥2,900
How to Get There
From Tokyo (Asakusa)
Tobu Limited Express directly to Kinugawa-Onsen Station
2 hours
From Tokyo (Shinjuku)
JR-Tobu Limited Express to Kinugawa-Onsen Station
2 hours
From Nikko
Tobu train to Kinugawa-Onsen Station
20 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Choose Hotels with River-View Rotemburo
Most large hotels offer outdoor baths overlooking Kinugawa Gorge - the combination of hot water and river scenery is Kinugawa's signature experience. Many hotels offer day-use bathing (¥1,000-2,000) if not staying overnight. Autumn foliage views from the bath are spectacular.
Combine with Nikko Visit
Kinugawa is only 20 minutes by train from Nikko's World Heritage shrines and temples. Stay at Kinugawa and day-trip to Nikko, or vice versa. The Tobu passes (2-4 days) cover trains and buses in both areas, offering excellent value (¥4,150-6,050 from Tokyo).
Take a River Boat Ride
Traditional wooden boats navigate the Kinugawa Gorge rapids (40 min, ¥2,900, Apr-Nov). Boatmen use poles to navigate rocks while explaining the scenery. Thrilling and scenic, especially during autumn foliage. Be prepared to possibly get splashed. Reservations recommended on weekends.
Family-Friendly Destination
Nikko Edomura (Edo Wonderland) recreates an Edo-period town with ninja shows and samurai performances (¥5,800 adults). Tobu World Square displays 1:25 scale models of world famous buildings (¥2,800). These attractions make Kinugawa ideal for families with children interested in both culture and entertainment.
Enjoy Kaiseki and Local Cuisine
Most ryokan and hotels include elaborate kaiseki meals featuring Tochigi wagyu beef, river fish, yuba (tofu skin) from nearby Nikko, and seasonal mountain vegetables. Even budget hotels often offer good meal plans. The food quality is a highlight of staying in Kinugawa.
Weekdays Offer Better Value and Availability
Kinugawa is very popular with Tokyo residents for weekend getaways. Weekday rates are significantly lower (sometimes 30-50% less) and facilities less crowded. Autumn foliage season (Oct-Nov) is most expensive and crowded - book months ahead.
Explore the Gorge Walking Paths
Walking paths along the river offer views of the gorge, suspension bridges, and autumn colors. The Tategami-no-taki Falls area provides scenic hiking. The paths connect various points in town and offer photo opportunities of the dramatic rock formations and clear river.
Winter is Quiet but Atmospheric
Winter sees fewer visitors and lower rates. Snow-covered mountains surrounding the steaming hot springs create beautiful scenes. Some outdoor activities close, but hot spring bathing in cold weather is wonderfully atmospheric. The combination of snow and onsen is quintessentially Japanese.
FAQ
How long should I stay in Kinugawa?
One or two nights is ideal to enjoy the hot springs and nearby attractions. Day trips are possible but rushed. Families often stay 2-3 nights to visit theme parks.
Is it good for families with kids?
Yes! Tobu World Square, Edo Wonderland, and Western Village nearby provide entertainment beyond hot springs. Many hotels have family-friendly facilities including pools and game rooms.
How far is it from Nikko?
About 30 minutes by train. Many visitors combine Kinugawa hot springs with Nikko sightseeing. Stay in Kinugawa for better value accommodation than Nikko.
What's the best public bath?
Kinugawa Park Bath offers affordable public bathing. Many hotels allow non-guests to use their baths for a fee during daytime. Check specific policies.
Can I bathe with tattoos?
Most hotels prohibit tattoos in public baths. Some offer private baths or have relaxed policies. Verify when booking. Private onsen rooms are available at some properties.
What's special about the hot springs here?
The alkaline water is gentle on skin, called 'bijin no yu' (beauty waters). Less sulfuric than other famous springs. Good for relaxation after Nikko sightseeing.
Are there activities besides bathing?
River boat rides, ropeway for valley views, hiking trails, and nearby theme parks. The autumn illumination event is popular. Spring cherry blossoms along river are beautiful.
Is it very touristy?
Popular with domestic tourists, especially families. Less international than Hakone or Kusatsu. Can feel dated but that's part of its nostalgic charm.
What food should I try?
Yuba (tofu skin) dishes from nearby Nikko, river fish, and local vegetables. Most visitors eat at their ryokan. Restaurant options in town are limited.
How do I get there from Tokyo?
Tobu Limited Express from Asakusa to Kinugawa Onsen Station (2 hours). JR+Tobu via Shinjuku also possible. Direct trains are most convenient.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Ashikaga Flower Park
A spectacular floral theme park featuring the world-famous Great Wisteria, seasonal flower displays, and Japan's largest winter illumination creating a flower fantasy throughout the year.
Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura
An immersive Edo-period theme park where visitors dress as samurai, ninja, or townspeople while exploring a meticulously recreated feudal Japanese town with live shows and interactive experiences.
Lake Chuzenji & Kegon Falls
A stunning mountain lake formed by volcanic eruption, paired with Kegon Falls - one of Japan's three most beautiful waterfalls cascading 97 meters into a dramatic gorge.
Nikko Toshogu Shrine
A lavishly decorated UNESCO World Heritage shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, featuring spectacular gilded carvings including the famous 'Three Wise Monkeys' and 'Sleeping Cat.'