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Kawayu Onsen

Tanabe - Kawayu Onsen

A geothermal river runs through it

The clue to this area's mystique lies in its name, Kawayu Onsen, or hot water river. Thermal water bubbles up from the river bed, allowing for hot-water bathing in a natural setting. Squeezed in between lush green mountain slopes and a huddle of hostels and inns, river relaxation is the order of the day.

How to Get There

A 10-minute bus ride from Hongu-taisha-mae will bring you to the area—the perfect spot for relaxing after visiting the grand shrine and Oyunohara.

Kawayu Onsen

Senninburo River Bath

Visiting in the cold winter months of December to February offers nature lovers a chance to soak in the Senninburo River Bath, an exclusive bathing area set up for the season that crams in hundreds of bathers at its peak. Swimsuits required.

Kawayu Onsen

Excellent place for relaxation

If you are looking for a relaxing dip outside of those months, shovels are available for you to dig your own bathing spot. There are also some pre-dug baths for those who want to get right in.

Kawayu Onsen