Conclusion
Kawayu Onsen in Wakayama Prefecture is one of the few hot spring destinations in the world where hot spring water naturally bubbles up from the riverbed. As the hot spring water mixes with the cool river water, it reaches a comfortable bathing temperature, turning the river itself into a natural open-air hot spring. Here are three reasons why Kawayu Onsen is especially worth visiting in winter:
- A huge open-air hot spring bath that is open only in winter
- You can dig your own hot spring.
- Tattoo-friendly and worry-free. You can enjoy the hot spring while wearing a swimsuit.
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A huge open-air hot spring bath that is open only in winter
If you are planning to visit Kawayu Onsen, winter is the most highly recommended season.
The reason is that the Kawayu Onsen, a huge natural open-air hot spring, is available only during the winter season.
The Kawayu Onsen is a special seasonal open-air bath created by partially damming the Oto River. The hot spring water rising from the riverbed mixes with the clear river water, creating a magical landscape where the entire river feels like a natural hot spring.
The size of the bath is far larger than a typical open-air hot spring, allowing many visitors to relax and enjoy the experience at the same time. Surrounded by magnificent mountains, soaking in the warm water while listening to the gentle sound of the flowing river offers a truly unique experience of becoming one with nature.
In addition, the steam rising from the hot water in the crisp winter air, and the chance to enjoy the bath surrounded by snow-covered scenery on lucky days, are special experiences that can only be enjoyed during this season.
The fact that the Kawayu Onsen is available for a limited time only in winter is another reason why it attracts so many travelers. Although Japan has countless hot spring destinations, opportunities to experience such a vast natural open-air hot spring are extremely rare.
For those seeking a unique hot spring experience that can only be enjoyed in Japan during winter, Kawayu Onsen is a destination that is highly worth visiting.
You can dig your own hot spring
Kawayu Onsen offers a unique experience that is difficult to find at other hot spring destinations: you can dig your own hot spring and create your very own open-air hot spring.
Because hot spring water naturally flows beneath the riverbed, simply digging into the gravel and sand allows warm water to rise from the ground. By arranging stones around the area to create a small enclosure, you can make your own original natural open-air hot spring.
The amount of water and its temperature vary depending on the location and depth of your digging. Trying different spots and discovering “the perfect place to create the ideal temperature” is part of the unique fun that can only be experienced at Kawayu Onsen.
Tattoo-friendly and worry-free. You can enjoy the hot spring while wearing a swimsuit.
At many hot springs in Japan, people with tattoos are still restricted from bathing, and the number of facilities where they can freely enjoy a hot spring experience remains limited. In addition, many first-time visitors to Japan may feel hesitant about entering a hot spring bath without clothing.
However, at Kawayu Onsen, guests can enjoy the experience while wearing swimsuits, making it feel more like a beach or a hot spring resort where everyone can relax comfortably. Being able to bathe together with family, friends, or couples is also one of its greatest attractions.
Even for those who are interested in Japanese hot spring culture but have tattoos or feel a little unsure about bathing naked, Kawayu Onsen offers a welcoming environment where they can experience the beauty of Japan’s onsen culture with peace of mind.
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