Ikaho Open-Air Bath
A rustic, natural outdoor hot spring bath nestled in the woods, featuring unique 'gold' thermal waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Ikaho Open-Air Bath
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rustic, natural outdoor hot spring bath nestled in the woods, featuring unique 'gold' thermal waters.
"Highly recommended for a very local experience!"
Bring Your Own Towel! 🧖♀️
Towels are not provided, so bring one from your accommodation or purchase one at the counter.
Rinse First, Soak Later :droplet:
No soaps allowed before entering. Rinse your body thoroughly with the hot spring water first.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 'Gold' Thermal Waters
Main pools
Experience the unique sulfurous 'gold' waters, known for their skin benefits, in both warm and very hot pools.
Forest Ambiance
Surrounding area
Soak in the natural setting, shaded by trees and surrounded by moss-covered rocks for a peaceful escape.
Kajika Bridge Views
Near Kajika Bridge
Enjoy views of the fall leaves from this simple rotenburo, a short walk from the iconic Kajika Bridge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Mount Haruna - Sights in the area?
Bring Your Own Towel! 🧖♀️
Towels are not provided, so bring one from your accommodation or purchase one at the counter.
Rinse First, Soak Later :droplet:
No soaps allowed before entering. Rinse your body thoroughly with the hot spring water first.
Cash is King 💰
The entrance fee is a modest 450 yen per adult. It's best to have cash on hand.
Rustic Changing Area 🌳
Be prepared for an outdoor changing area and lockers. It's part of the charm!
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Own Towel! 🧖♀️
Towels are not provided, so bring one from your accommodation or purchase one at the counter.
Rinse First, Soak Later :droplet:
No soaps allowed before entering. Rinse your body thoroughly with the hot spring water first.
Cash is King 💰
The entrance fee is a modest 450 yen per adult. It's best to have cash on hand.
Rustic Changing Area 🌳
Be prepared for an outdoor changing area and lockers. It's part of the charm!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Ikaho Open-Air Bath for its authentic, local experience and the unique benefits of its 'gold' thermal waters. The natural, rustic setting is a major draw, offering a peaceful soak surrounded by nature. However, the lack of amenities like showers and the 'rinse only' rule are points to be aware of.
"The bath smells daunting at first but when you are in it, it is fairly good.
One downside is there is no shower so you need to rinse yourself with the bath water before getting in."
Kittipon Tanadej
"Highly recommended for a very local experience!
This outdoor onsen might be small and very local but it’s worth the experience. Entrance is 450yen per adult and this gives you access to the pool and a locker.
Different from other onsens, this onsen doesn’t allow you to use soaps before entering, instead you just rinse your body with the onsen water. I highly suggest you bring your own towel or purchase one at the counter.
There is a lukewarm and a hotter pool, both featuring the local ‘gold’ thermal water. I have tattoos but no one seemed to say anything."
Michele Chang
"A simple outdoor onsen to view the fall leaves. It is a few minutes away by foot from Kajika Bridge. There are no hairdryers. Changing area and lockers are outdoors. It's 450 yen for adults and 200 yen for children."
Jessica Ing
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ikaho Open-Air Bath is located near Mount Haruna. If you're visiting Mount Haruna and renting a car for the day, it's a convenient stop in the area. It's also about a 15-minute walk from the main Ikaho Onsen area and Kajika Bridge.
Parking availability can vary, especially during peak seasons. If you're driving, look for designated parking areas in the vicinity.
While possible, it's a significant journey. Many visitors combine it with a trip to Mount Haruna or explore the wider Gunma Prefecture for a more relaxed experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is very affordable, typically around 450 yen for adults and 200 yen for children. It's recommended to have cash on hand as payment methods might be limited.
Opening hours can vary, and it's advisable to check locally or online before your visit. Generally, it's open during daylight hours.
No advance booking is typically required for this local, open-air bath. You can usually pay the entrance fee upon arrival.
The main restriction is that soaps and shampoos are not allowed in the pools. You must rinse your body with the hot spring water before entering. While some onsen have tattoo policies, reviews suggest it's generally not an issue here.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
This is a very local and minimalist facility. You'll find the hot spring pools, a changing area, and lockers. There are no showers or hairdryers.
The bath features the local 'gold' thermal water, which has a distinct sulfur smell but is considered beneficial for the skin. There are usually two pools: one lukewarm and one very hot.
No, soaps and shampoos are not permitted. You are required to rinse your body with the hot spring water before entering the pools.
Yes, it's often recommended as a spot to view fall foliage, especially as it's located near Kajika Bridge, a popular autumn viewing spot.
Based on traveler experiences, there haven't been issues with tattoos at this particular bath, unlike some more formal onsen.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, the open-air bath itself does not offer food services. You'll need to find dining options in the nearby Ikaho Onsen town.
Ikaho Onsen town offers a variety of local Japanese cuisine, including soba noodles, udon, and regional specialties.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography within the bathing areas is generally not permitted to respect the privacy of other bathers. However, you can capture the surrounding natural beauty and the exterior of the facility.
The surrounding forest and the nearby Kajika Bridge offer excellent photographic opportunities, especially during autumn.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🌿 Nature Lovers & Hikers
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique 'Gold' Thermal Waters
It's important to note the specific etiquette for these waters. Unlike many modern onsen facilities, soaps and shampoos are not permitted before entering the pools. The practice is to rinse your body thoroughly with the hot spring water itself. This ensures the purity of the mineral-rich water and is a traditional aspect of the bathing experience.
Embracing the Rustic Charm
Visitors often describe it as a 'little cute onsen that's in the forest,' highlighting its intimate scale and serene atmosphere.
Social
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