Kawayu Onsen is famous for its hot spring water that gushes out when the riverbank is dug.
Hot water also gushes into the river, and bubbles can be seen rising from the bottom of the river.
In winter, when the river’s flow rate is low, a huge open-air bath is created by holding back the river.
The temperature is adjusted to around 40°C by drawing in the clear water of the Oto River into the 73°C spring water that springs from the bottom of the river.
During the daytime, the bath is like an urban swimming pool with many tourists,
At night or early in the morning, visitors can enjoy bathing under the stars while listening to the murmuring of the stream.
The Hermit Baths, a popular wintertime tradition, is said to have begun in the early Edo period (1603-1867).
During January, a karuta tournament is held in which wooden karuta cards are floated in the bathtub.
6:30 - 22:00
Basically open every day during the period
May not be available depending on the amount of rainfall, etc.
Open period
Usually from December to the end of February
Free of charge
Approximately 60 minutes from Shingu Station on the Kisei Main Line by Kumano Gobo Nankai Bus and Yagi Shingu Express Bus of Nara Kotsu
Yagi Shingu Express Bus of Nara Kotsu from Kintetsu Yamato Yagi Station via Kintetsu Takada-shi Station, Kintetsu Gosho Station, and Gojo Station on JR Wakayama Line (about 5 hours and 30 minutes from Yamato Yagi Station)