One of the Kanto region’s premier hot spring areas, Kinugawa Onsen attracts over 2 million visitors annually. The area is surrounded by nature-rich sightseeing spots, theme parks, souvenir shops, and about 40 hotels and inns, making it a place you can enjoy in any season of the year. In recent years, more and more day-use hot spring facilities have opened, boosting its popularity as a destination accessible for a day trip from the Tokyo area. This time, we’ll introduce recommended accommodations and sightseeing information for Kinugawa Onsen, blessed with beautiful gorge scenery.
1. Hot Spring Towns Along the Gorge
When you think of Kinugawa Onsen, you probably picture the hotels and inns lined up along the gorge. Blessed with seasonal beauty, Kinugawa offers azaleas in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn foliage, and winter landscapes—scenery to enjoy year-round. Wouldn’t you like to soak in a hot spring while gazing at such beautiful gorge views?
The Kinugawa Onsen area also has hiking trails, allowing visitors to take leisurely strolls while enjoying the surrounding nature. For those who want to enjoy the gorge from the river, the famous Kinugawa Line Kudari boat ride is highly recommended. It’s available only from mid-April to late November, so don’t miss it.
2. Elegant Moments at the Dreamy “Kanaya Hotel”
When you hear “Kanaya Hotel,” you might think of the famous one in Nikko, but Kinugawa also has its own Kanaya Hotel, affectionately nicknamed the “Villa of the Gorge.” Many visitors come here seeking a refined escape from daily life, and every piece of furnishing in the hotel is of exceptional value.
While the accommodation rates are on the higher side, considering the attentive service and the quality of the meals, it’s by no means overpriced. Even with a short stay, you can fully enjoy the hotel experience.
3. Hoshino Resorts Finally Expands into Kinugawa
Hoshino Resorts, now a nationally renowned hotel chain, operates resort hotels such as RISONARE, hot spring inns like HOSHINOYA and KAI, and city hotels under the OMO brand. In November 2015, they opened KAI Kinugawa.
The property features guest rooms adorned with Mashiko ware, spacious hot springs where you can feel the changing seasons, and meals made with carefully selected local ingredients—showcasing the charms of Tochigi Prefecture throughout the premises. Even the unique touch of riding a slope car from the entrance to the guest buildings nestled in the forest reflects the distinctive style of Hoshino Resorts.
Name: Hoshino Resorts KAI Kinugawa
Address: 308 Kinugawa Onsen Taki, Nikko-shi, Tochigi
4. Popular with All Ages! The Charm of the Long-Established “Asaya”
A true symbol of Kinugawa Onsen, the long-established Asaya Hotel has been welcoming guests since its founding in 1888. The moment you enter, you’re greeted by the open atrium lobby, and its famous dinner buffet offering a wide variety of dishes. Loved by countless travelers for over 130 years, this hotel continues to be a favorite.
Accommodation plans range from budget-friendly options to luxurious packages perfect for special occasions, allowing guests to choose according to their needs and purpose. Another highlight is the “Sky Garden Open-Air Bath,” said to be located at the highest point in Kinugawa Onsen.
5. For a Day-Trip Onsen Experience, This is the Place! “Akebi”
For those who want to enjoy Kinugawa Onsen on a day trip, Akebi is highly recommended. It offers 10 private open-air bath rooms, each with two different types of baths, where you can soak while gazing at the Kinugawa Gorge through the trees.
The front building also has a women-only stone sauna facility, as well as foot baths and a relaxing lounge—providing everything you need for a comfortable visit. The reasonable pricing is another attractive feature.
Name: Shizenyoku Hanare-no-Yu Akebi
Address: 19-26 Osagoe Aza Hara, Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture
6. Enjoy Sightseeing with the Kinugawa Ropeway
From Kinugawa Onsen Sanroku Station, a 3-minute ride on the Kinugawa Onsen Ropeway will take you to the summit of Mt. Maruyama, located at an altitude of 738 meters. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Nasu Highlands and the entire Kinugawa Gorge.
The autumn foliage season is particularly stunning, with the whole area dyed in vivid shades of red and yellow, like a beautiful carpet spread across the landscape. At the summit, you’ll find the “Onsen Shrine” and “Monkey Mountain,” making it a popular spot for families with children as well as couples.
Name: Kinugawa Onsen Ropeway
Address: 834 Kinugawa Onsen Taki, Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture
Official Website: https://ropeway.kinu1.com/
◎ In Conclusion: There Are Plans and Tours to Match Your Needs
Aside from the places introduced here, Kinugawa Onsen offers many other wonderful hotels and attractions. For example, Wakatake-no-Sho Bettei Sasane, which does not accept guests with elementary school-age children or younger, is perfect for anniversaries and romantic getaways. If you want to travel with your pet, visit Nikko Kinugawa Kizuna.
Additionally, by joining the Kinugawa Onsen Town Walking Tour led by local guides, you can learn about the nature and history of Kinugawa. Plan the perfect Kinugawa Onsen trip tailored to your scene and purpose, and make the most of your visit.