Ikaho Onsen is a famous hot spring town located in Gunma Prefecture. Known for its rich history and thermal waters, it has been a popular destination for travelers seeking relaxation, glimpse views of nature, and traditional Japanese architecture.
Access from Tokyo
Located approximately 150 km from Tokyo, Ikaho Onsen is relatively easy to reach.
Train: The most straightforward way is to take a train from Tokyo to Shibukawa Station, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. From Shibukawa, a bus ride of around 25-30 minutes will take you directly to Ikaho Onsen.
Bus: There are also long-distance highway buses that can take you directly from various points in Tokyo to Ikaho Onsen. Depending on traffic conditions, it takes about 3 to 3.5 hours. This is a convenient option to avoid transfers.
What You Can Do at Ikaho Onsen
Hot Spring (Onsen): Ikaho Onsen is renowned for its hot springs, which are believed to have therapeutic properties for skin ailments and muscular pains. Most onsen resorts in the area offer both indoor and outdoor baths.
Ikaho Stone Steps: The historic 365-steps main street of the town is lined with quaint shops and eateries. Walking up these steps is like traveling back in time, as the ambiance is distinctly traditional. The steps lead to Ikaho Jinja shrine for good luck and a great view.
Approximate Cost
Accommodation: Ikaho Onsen can range from budget-friendly guesthouses at around ¥6,000-¥8,000 per night to luxurious ryokans, which could cost ¥20,000-¥40,000 per person per night, including meals.
Transportation: approximately ¥10,000-¥50,000 per person per day, depending on your preferences.
Public Onsen: Around ¥1,000-¥2,000 if you prefer a day trip.
Must-Try Foods
Onsen Manju: A steamed bun filled with red bean paste, this is a popular snack in many onsen towns, including Ikaho. Several shops sell it.
Tama konjaku (konnyaku ball): It is recommended as a gourmet food to eat. It is said that this konnyaku is soaked in soy sauce flavor, firm and elastic, and has a delightful texture.
Mizusawa udon: Mizusawa udon is one of the three best udon noodles in Japan, along with Inaniwa in Akita and Sanuki in Kagawa. The noodles are made with wheat, pure water, and salt, and are characterized by their translucent sheen and smooth texture.
Local Freshwater Fish: Try local fish dishes like char and trout prepared in traditional Japanese styles like grilling or served as sashimi.
Trip itinerary
Morning:
08:30 am – Depart from your Accommodation Leave early to reach Tokyo Station. Make sure to pack essentials like water, some snacks, and your camera.
09:00 am – Arrive at Tokyo Station Get to Tokyo Station and purchase your tickets for the train to Shibukawa Station. If you have a rail pass that covers this route, be sure to have it activated. Board your train. You can use this time to catch some sleep, read, or plan your day in more detail.
Late Morning:
11:00 am – Arrive at Shibukawa Station Once you arrive, look for the bus terminal. Buses to Ikaho Onsen are fairly frequent.
11:30 am – Take the Bus to Ikaho Onsen The ride to Ikaho Onsen takes about 25-30 minutes.
12:00 am – Arrive at Ikaho Onsen Start by exploring the area near the bus stop or go straight to the Ikaho Ropeway for a panoramic view of the surroundings.
Afternoon:
12:30 am – Ikaho Ropeway Take the Ikaho Ropeway to the summit and enjoy the view. Take the ropeway back down by 11:30 am to give yourself enough time for other activities.
1:30 pm – Ikaho Stone Steps Begin your ascent of the Ikaho Stone Steps. Take your time to browse shops, take photos, and enjoy the scenery. Enjoy a late lunch and try onsen manju.
3:30 pm – Ikaho Shrine Visit the Ikaho Shrine near the top of the Stone Steps.
4:30 pm – Kajika Bridge Walk to Kajika Bridge, which should be nearby. Take some photos and enjoy the view.
Late Afternoon:
03:00 pm – Head Back to Bus Stop Begin your walk back down the Stone Steps and head to the bus stop. Catch a bus back to Shibukawa Station.
04:00 pm – Arrive at Shibukawa and Head to Tokyo Upon arriving at Shibukawa, board the train back to Tokyo. If you're staying in Shibukawa onsen, you can enjoy the night.
Evening:
05:00 pm – Return to Ryokan for Onsen Head back to your accommodation for an evening onsen bath to relax your muscles and soak in the warm, therapeutic waters.
07:00 pm – Dinner at Ryokan Indulge in a traditional kaiseki dinner featuring seasonal and local produce. Enjoy the multi-course meal and reflect on your day’s adventure.
09:00 pm – Stroll or Rest Depending on your energy levels, take a quiet evening stroll around the ryokan or rest up for the following day’s journey.
Nearby Attractions
Haruna Shrine: About a 20-minute drive from Ikaho Onsen, this beautiful Shinto shrine offers a peaceful atmosphere amidst stunning natural scenery.
Mount Haruna: A popular spot for hiking and picnicking, Mount Haruna is also known for Lake Haruna, where you can enjoy boating or fishing.
Kusatsu Onsen: Another one of Japan's most famous hot spring resorts, located in Gunma Prefecture. Believed to have healing properties that can help treat a wide range of ailments, Kusatsu Onsen attracts tourists, wellness enthusiasts, and local visitors alike.
Conclusion
Ikaho Onsen provides a fulfilling experience, blending the richness of nature with Japanese tradition and culture. You can relax in nature and enjoy the hot springs. As Ikaho Onsen is near Kusatsu Onsen, you can enjoy two famous hot springs at the same time.
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