Takaragawa Onsen: An Authentic Japanese Experience Hidden in the Mountains

Takaragawa Onsen was one of the first stop I set while planning my last Japan travel. I was sure to add one or two traditional ryokan experiences, which I think should not be missing in any Japan itinerary.

It is reported in many articles about Japanese Onsen as one of the most scenic and incredible places you can visit, so I wanted to check how real were these statements, and I was not disappointed.

Takaragawa Onsen

Nestled amidst the serene embrace of Gunma Prefecture’s mountainous landscape, Takaragawa Onsen stands as a hidden gem, beckoning travelers with the promise of tranquility and rejuvenation. This secluded haven of natural hot springs has long been revered for its restorative waters and captivating blend of traditional Japanese hospitality.

My personal experience in Takaragawa Onsen

My girlfriend and I were picked up at the local train station for a 45-minute bus ride. I had booked the place a few months in advance and had been in contact with the owner to arrange the pick-up and departure times.

The bus was already there when we arrived at the Jōmō-Kōgen station, right on time as suggested by the information provided by the facilities.

The ride was not very comfortable as the bus was small and crowded, but being 193cm tall, I’m used to feeling uncomfortable on some Japanese buses. However, the scenery was beautiful, and we could see the vibrant autumn colors, known as Momijigari, through the windows, with various shades of yellow and orange.

Upon arriving at the Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku hotel, we removed our shoes at the entrance and were provided with slippers and yukata to use during our stay.

Traditional Japanese Room

One of the reasons to stay in a Ryokan is the traditional Japanese rooms. The tatami rooms are always a delight for my eyes.

They completely change the feeling of your stay, making you feel like you’re living in the Edo era (Japan’s middle ages), which in itself is a valuable experience. Like many other Ryokans, they provide hot water and green tea, along with a variety of sweets.

The true magic of our stay unfolded as we reached our room. It was November 13th, 2023, and the air outside felt slightly warmer for the season. However, as we made our way from the reception to our room, a heavy snowfall began, creating a unique and enchanting atmosphere. It fulfilled one of my greatest wishes when I’m in Japan: experiencing an Onsen Bath in an outdoor Rotenburo while it’s snowing.

Onsen Bath

This is where the true added value of the Takaragawa Onsen Onsenkaku structure comes into play. It is a large, beautiful wooden structure nestled in the mountains, providing a serene and natural ambiance. Here, you will find four external Onsen Baths that you can enjoy:

• Mixed Man/Women Hot Water Area
• Women Only Hot Water Area
• Mixed Men/Women Mid-Temp Area
• Mixed Men/Women Cold Area

I honestly didn’t enjoy the cooler areas of the onsen, as I primarily seek hot water for relaxation. However, the scenery was absolutely incredible. We arrived at lunchtime and spent the entire afternoon moving from one pool to another.

Referring to them as ‘pools’ is limiting and doesn’t do justice to the natural beauty of many onsen. They often feature large stone basins that appear to have been naturally created in their surroundings, with hot water flowing from underground springs.

Typically, onsen baths are enjoyed completely nude, but in many cases and particularly in mixed-gender pools, the facilities provide bathing suits for both men and women. Takaragawa Onsen was no exception.

Are you convinced to go yet? Book here:

Kaiseki Meals

The icing on the cake of the Ryokan experience is the Kaiseki dinner and breakfast that the establishment offers. When booking a Ryokan, I recommend checking if they provide both dinner and breakfast.

Kaiseki meals are multi-course feasts that showcase seasonal ingredients. During our stay, we had the opportunity to try a wide variety of delicious local specialties. My girlfriend was amazed, and everything was absolutely fantastic.

This photo was taken during dinner. We had the chance to try a larg variety of delicious typical food. Everything was great and perfect.

Takaragawa Onsen is a sanctuary for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It is a place where you can reconnect with nature, embrace the tranquility of traditional Japanese hospitality, and rediscover the essence of inner peace. As the cares of the world melt away, you’ll emerge from this secluded retreat feeling rejuvenated, refreshed, and ready to embrace life’s journey with renewed vigor.

Now it’s time to book your own stay at Takaragawa Onsen Onsenkaku:

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