Minakami Onsen
Discover serene hot springs amidst stunning nature, from vibrant autumn leaves to snowy landscapes. Experience traditional ryokan stays and rejuvenati...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak autumn foliage
Minakami Onsen
Best Time
Peak autumn foliage
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover serene hot springs amidst stunning nature, from vibrant autumn leaves to snowy landscapes. Experience traditional ryokan stays and rejuvenating baths.
"The outdoor bath is fantastic. The ambiance was breathtaking whether day or night."
🎒 Pack for Onsen Etiquette
Bring cash for lunch options, as most places only serve breakfast/dinner.
🛏️ Traditional Sleeping
Expect tatami mats and futons; western-style beds are rare.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Takaragawa Onsen's Grand Outdoor Baths
Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku
Immerse yourself in Japan's largest open-air bath, surrounded by pristine nature and the flowing Takaragawa River.
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Autumn Foliage Spectacle
Minakami Onsen area
Witness breathtaking fall colors painting the landscape, especially vibrant in early November.
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Traditional Ryokan Experience
Various Ryokans in Minakami
Stay in a traditional Japanese inn, complete with tatami mat rooms, yukata robes, and exquisite multi-course meals.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Onsen Culture
Timing is Key for Foliage & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Pack for Onsen Etiquette
Bring cash for lunch options, as most places only serve breakfast/dinner.
🛏️ Traditional Sleeping
Expect tatami mats and futons; western-style beds are rare.
📸 Respect Bathing Privacy
Avoid filming in onsen areas; it's disruptive and disrespectful.
🚗 Day Trip Logistics
Takaragawa Onsen can be a day trip from Tokyo, but plan travel time carefully.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Pack for Onsen Etiquette
Bring cash for lunch options, as most places only serve breakfast/dinner.
🛏️ Traditional Sleeping
Expect tatami mats and futons; western-style beds are rare.
📸 Respect Bathing Privacy
Avoid filming in onsen areas; it's disruptive and disrespectful.
🚗 Day Trip Logistics
Takaragawa Onsen can be a day trip from Tokyo, but plan travel time carefully.
🧥 Provided Attire
Many outdoor baths offer clothing for mixed-gender use.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Minakami Onsen is widely praised for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the expansive outdoor baths at Takaragawa Onsen and the vibrant autumn foliage. Visitors rave about the relaxing atmosphere, traditional ryokan stays, and attentive service. However, some guests have noted issues with cleanliness in certain areas and disruptive filming by social media users in bathing zones.
"This Onsen was the highlight of our Japan trip. We went the first week of November at the peak of fall colors and I couldn't believe how beautiful it was. Our room was right above the river and we had such a good view. The indoor and outdoor baths were clean and lovely to enjoy. I could not give this location a higher recommendation. The service and respect from the staff was top notch and we really enjoyed staying there. Having everyone in Yukatas was an added bonus - really added to the theme.
Some notes as mentioned in other reviews:
1)They only serve breakfast and dinner so you'll want to either bring cash to buy some ramen from the gift shop or bring some food in for lunch.
2)Yes they could dust more and get of some of the cobwebs on the ceilings. I'm tall and there were many short beams and ceilings I had to duck under. Hit my head a fair amount of times and had some cobwebs in my hair lol
3)They do not have western style beds and you sleep on a few tatami mats with comforters. I don't have an issue with these sleeping arrangements, but just something to note if you are more comfortable sleeping on softer surfaces
Overall - very relaxing and enjoyable experience. I would recommend going in fall/winter to avoid bugs (Nov - Mar)."
Benedict Fargus
"beautiful and amazing trip with family. we came just in time to see the beautiful autumn foliage. as its my first time being in japan in autumn, and coming to the countryside outside of major cities like tokyo, this was such a beautiful retreat from the hustle and bustle of rhe city. the onsens were wonderful and mixed gender public onsen was great for family time! while the gender separated ones were perfect for some personal time relaxing after a long day of travelling and exploring the region. Of course, in true japanese hospitality style, we enjoyed delicious meals (we stayed for 3 days) for breakfast and dinner — everyone in our family, both young and old, enjoyed it greatly. Its definitely a trip to remember!"
Morg Q
"We stayed here for two nights in mid-November—my sister, my 1-year-old baby, and myself—and absolutely loved our experience. The ryokan is older, but everything is clean and well maintained. The staff were truly wonderful and went above and beyond for us.
Because the property was fully booked, we weren’t able to stay in the same room for both nights. The ryokan has three buildings with different room types: one with a toilet and shower, one with only a toilet, and one with neither, so be sure you know which one you’re reserving. We had a room with a toilet and shower on the first night and a room with only a toilet for the second. Honestly, having a shower in the room isn’t really necessary since you’ll probably spend most of your time enjoying their five beautiful onsens, where you can shower as well.
We had to switch rooms after the first night, and this is where the staff really shined. Although check-out is normally at 10 a.m. and check-in at 2 p.m., they prioritized cleaning our second room so we could move in right away. We checked out at 10 and were in our new room by 10:30.
Traveling with a baby, we were so grateful for the thoughtful touches: without us even asking, the staff provided a high chair, a bowl of rice with condiments, water, and baby dishes and utensils. Their attention to detail was incredible.
The rooms are beautifully positioned along the river, and the entire ryokan has such charming character. We truly loved our stay and would happily return."
Krys Bratz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by Shinkansen (bullet train) to Jomo-Kogen Station, then a local bus or taxi to Minakami Onsen. The journey takes about 1-1.5 hours.
Yes, it's feasible as a day trip, but requires early departure and careful planning of train and bus schedules. Consider the travel time to maximize your visit.
Local buses connect many of the main onsen areas. Renting a car offers more flexibility, especially for exploring further afield.
Yes, there are direct buses from Tokyo to Takaragawa Onsen, but check schedules in advance as they can be limited.
The closest major station is Jomo-Kogen Station on the Joetsu Shinkansen line. From there, you'll need to take a bus or taxi.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For day-use onsen, booking is often not required, but it's wise to check with individual resorts, especially during peak season. For ryokan stays, advance booking is essential.
Onsen hours vary, but many are open from morning (around 9-10 AM) until evening (around 8-9 PM). Some ryokan baths are accessible 24/7 for guests.
Day-use onsen typically have an entrance fee, ranging from ¥1,000 to ¥3,000. Ryokan stays include onsen access.
Yes, Gunma sometimes offers 'Onsen Hopping' passes, allowing access to multiple onsen for a set period. Check local tourism information for current offers.
Many onsen resorts, like Takaragawa Onsen, offer day-use options, allowing you to enjoy their baths for a fee even if you're not a guest.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Takaragawa Onsen provides special robes for use in their mixed-gender outdoor baths, allowing everyone to enjoy the experience comfortably.
Some ryokans offer private onsen (kashikiri buro) for an additional fee, providing a more intimate bathing experience.
Early November is ideal for stunning autumn foliage. Winter offers a magical snowy landscape, while spring and summer provide lush greenery.
Minakami is also known for outdoor activities like hiking, rafting, and skiing in winter. The surrounding nature offers plenty to explore.
It's generally a tranquil and relaxing destination, offering a peaceful escape from city life, especially outside of peak seasons.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Ryokans typically serve traditional Japanese multi-course dinners (kaiseki) and breakfasts, featuring local and seasonal ingredients.
Many ryokans only offer breakfast and dinner. For lunch, you might find limited options in the town center or need to bring your own food.
Yes, you might find local dishes like horse meat (basashi) or regional sake. Exploring local izakayas can be a great way to experience regional cuisine.
It's best to inform your ryokan in advance about dietary restrictions. While traditional Japanese cuisine can be adapted, options might be limited.
Some onsen resorts have cafes or restaurants open to day visitors. Otherwise, look for eateries in the main town area near the station.
📸 📸 Photography
The outdoor baths at Takaragawa Onsen, especially during autumn foliage or with snow, offer stunning photographic opportunities. The surrounding river and forests are also picturesque.
Photography is generally prohibited inside the bathing areas of onsen to respect privacy. Always check signage and ask staff if unsure.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially around private accommodations and sensitive natural sites. Always check local regulations before flying.
A versatile camera with good low-light performance is ideal. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto for capturing details.
Many travelers highlight the views from the ryokan rooms overlooking the river and the expansive outdoor baths as prime photo locations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
This allows for shared relaxation and memorable moments without the usual nudity concerns. Many ryokans are welcoming to children and offer delicious meals that even picky eaters can enjoy.
💑 Couples Seeking Romance
The serene atmosphere, especially during autumn or winter, creates a magical setting for a getaway. +1Enjoying a kaiseki dinner together, followed by a soak in the hot springs under the stars, is an ideal way to unwind and reconnect. The picturesque landscapes provide ample opportunities for romantic strolls and quiet moments amidst nature.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Staying in a ryokan allows for an authentic cultural experience, and the communal nature of some onsen can lead to pleasant interactions. Many solo travelers find the experience of soaking in the onsen to be incredibly relaxing and a great way to de-stress. The natural beauty of the area also provides a calming backdrop for exploration, whether it's a gentle hike or simply enjoying the views.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Takaragawa Onsen
+1The resort provides special robes for both men and women, allowing for a comfortable and inclusive experience in the mixed-gender bathing areas. This unique feature makes it a popular choice for families and couples seeking a shared onsen adventure. The ambiance is often described as magical, with the sound of the river and the natural surroundings creating a deeply relaxing atmosphere.
While the onsen itself is the main draw, the accompanying ryokan, Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku, offers traditional Japanese accommodation and dining. Reviews often praise the attentive service and the quality of the meals served. However, it's important to note that some visitors have encountered issues with filming in the bathing areas, so respecting privacy is paramount.
Experiencing a Traditional Ryokan Stay
The dining experience at a ryokan is often a highlight. Expect elaborate multi-course kaiseki dinners, showcasing seasonal ingredients and artistic presentation, followed by a traditional Japanese breakfast. This culinary journey is a significant part of the cultural immersion.
While the charm of a ryokan is undeniable, be prepared for a different style of comfort. Sleeping on futons on tatami mats might be a new experience for some, and western-style amenities like en-suite bathrooms might be less common in older establishments. It's advisable to confirm these details when booking.
Best Times to Visit Minakami Onsen
+1Winter brings a different kind of magic with snow-covered landscapes. The contrast of the steaming outdoor onsen against the crisp, snowy air is incredibly picturesque and offers a cozy, serene experience. This season is perfect for those seeking a tranquil retreat and a chance to enjoy the onsen in a unique, wintry setting.
For those looking to avoid the largest crowds, visiting during weekdays in the shoulder seasons (spring or late autumn outside peak foliage) can offer a more peaceful experience. While summer offers lush greenery and outdoor activities, it can also be more humid and prone to rain.
Social
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