7 must-see tourist spots to enjoy Dorogawa Onsen and nature in the historic post town of Tenkawa Village

Dorogawa Onsen is a hot spring located in Tenkawa Village, Nara Prefecture, situated at the trailhead to Mt. Ōmine and Mt. Sanjōgatake. Being at a high altitude, it is cool during the summer and is popular as a summer retreat. More than 20 inns line the area around Dorogawa Onsen, attracting tourists throughout the year.

Dorogawa has a long history as a post town, dating back to before World War II. Mt. Ōmine has long been known as a sacred mountain for practitioners of Shugendō, and even today it draws ascetics and worshippers. In addition, there are numerous nature-rich spots such as Kamakiri no Iwaya (Praying Mantis Cave) and Godaimatsu Limestone Cave. In this article, we introduce the charming inn district of Dorogawa Onsen and the surrounding tourist attractions.

1. Village-Run Dorogawa Onsen Center

Dorogawa Onsen’s hot spring is a mildly alkaline simple spring. As the only onsen center in the area, it serves as a place of rest and relaxation for many visitors including mountain climbers. The view from the open-air bath is magnificent and offers an exceptional relaxation effect.

The hot spring at the Village-Run Dorogawa Onsen Center is said to be effective for ailments such as cold sensitivity, rheumatism, neuralgia, and muscle pain. There are indoor and outdoor baths made using Yoshino cedar, giving off a calming aroma. With a jet bath available, it’s the perfect place to heal tired bodies after sightseeing.

2. Kamakiri no Iwaya

Kamakiri means praying mantis, and this spot is called “Kamakiri no Iwaya” (Praying Mantis Cave) because the posture of ascetics crouching to pass through the cave’s low ceiling resembles a mantis.

Through the experience of crouching and walking in the cave, one learns that it's better to live humbly than arrogantly. Today, not only ascetics but also tourists visit this spot to gain life guidance. When sightseeing in Dorogawa, this is a great place for a meaningful, experiential visit.

3. Godaimatsu Limestone Cave

A dim and mystical space where water drips from the ceiling—if you're a fan of limestone caves, you won’t want to miss this top attraction in Dorogawa: Godaimatsu Limestone Cave. The cave is named after Mr. Godaimatsu, who discovered it in 1929 (Showa 4).

Its main highlight is the “Great Golden Pillar,” an 8-meter tall stone column. Other features include 20–30 cm stalactites and 3–4 m stalagmites. Visitors must check in at “Gorogoro Chaya” before entering. A trolley takes you to the entrance, and a guide accompanies the tour.

The cave has been formed entirely by nature, shaped millimeter by millimeter each year, and continues to evolve. Visiting this cave lets you witness nature’s wonder and feel a sense of awe and sacredness. Experience the marvels of nature here in Dorogawa.

4. Gorogoro Water (Gorogoro Chaya)

Exploring limestone caves takes a fair bit of energy. After a while, you’ll likely break a sweat from the effort. At such times, refresh yourself with pure water that springs from Godaimatsu Limestone Cave.

“Gorogoro Water” originates from the limestone layer of Godaimatsu Cave. It’s named for the sound of pebbles rolling as the water flows. This natural, untouched water has a very clean quality, and it’s popular among visitors for making tea or coffee.

You can taste this water at Gorogoro Chaya, a water collection spot managed by the Dorogawa district. Not only the water but also the coffee and kuzu mochi (arrowroot rice cakes) served here are superb. A highly recommended stop during your Dorogawa visit.

5. Karigane Bridge

If you're seeking a thrilling experience, Karigane Bridge is the spot. Also known as the “Great Suspension Bridge,” it spans about 120 meters in length and rises 50 meters high, offering a panoramic view of Dorogawa Onsen town.

The name comes from “karigane,” a local word for the rock swallow, a natural monument in Nara. Its flight pattern resembles crossing the bridge. As a suspension bridge, it sways when walked on or when the wind blows. But the view that awaits at the end makes the challenge worth it.

The historic Dorogawa Onsen at the foot of Mt. Ōmine looks small and secluded from afar, surrounded by nature. The scenery from tourist spots like this bridge is one you’ll want to capture in your travel photos.

6. Tenkawa Village History Museum

To fully enjoy sightseeing in Dorogawa, learning about the history of Tenkawa Village is essential. The "Tenkawa Village History Museum" displays tools used in daily life and shows what mountain work and living in the mountains entails. There’s also a rich collection of materials on mountain worship, which Dorogawa is known for.

The entrance gallery features local paintings, photographs, and woodblock prints. Depending on the season, concerts and talk shows are held. It’s not only a place of history but also occasional entertainment—an enriching experience, especially for families with children.

7. Dorogawa Eco Museum Center

The Dorogawa Eco Museum Center offers detailed information on the nature around Mt. Ōmine and is a popular hub for hikers and tourists alike.

The facility is divided into theme zones with exhibits tailored to each theme. As a hands-on museum, it allows for more than just observing displays—you can play in water or run freely on the lawn.

A must-see highlight is the visual corner showcasing the seasonal beauty of Tenkawa’s nature. Occasionally, they also organize nature experience tours. If the timing works out, participating in one is highly recommended.

◎ Summary

Located close to Dorogawa, Mt. Ōmine has a deep history as a center of mountain worship and remains a training ground for ascetics. Rather than one mountain, it refers to a long mountain range. The mystical and otherworldly atmosphere in Dorogawa likely stems from this legacy, giving the town a unique character even as a flourishing tourist destination.

When people think of sightseeing, they often picture theme parks or amusements. But visiting a place like Dorogawa, untouched by excessive development, allows for true travel experiences and deep relaxation. For healing and an escape from the ordinary, Tenkawa Village's Dorogawa is highly recommended.

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7 must-see tourist spots to enjoy Dorogawa Onsen and nature in the historic post town of Tenkawa Village