Soaking in Oku-Hida Onsen-go (奥飛騨温泉郷)

Onsen villages, outdoor baths, and traditional stays in Japan’s Northern Alps.

Tucked into the high valleys of the Northern Japan Alps, Oku-Hida Onsengo is a constellation of five hot spring villages—Hirayu, Shin-Hirayu, Shin-Hotaka, Fukuji, and Tochio—each known for distinct mineral waters, mountain scenery, and a slower, more rural rhythm. Here, hot spring bathing blends seamlessly with timber ryokan, riverside rotenburo, and post-hike soaks under snow or stars.

What is an Onsen, Anyway?

In Japan, onsen (温泉) are geothermally heated hot springs rich in minerals, often found in mountain regions. The word can refer to the water, the bath, the facility—or even the town built around it. Many onsen are connected to a ryokan, a traditional inn offering meals and lodging.

Not to be confused with sento (銭湯), which are public baths that use regular heated tap water, onsen have specific criteria set by law based on water temperature and mineral content.

In Oku-Hida, open-air rotenburo (露天風呂) are the highlight—natural pools nestled in forests or along rivers, offering prime views of the surrounding peaks.

Soaking Etiquette: What to Know Before You Bathe

Bathing here is about much more than getting clean—it's a ritual of purification and quiet reflection. Respect the space and follow these basic customs:

• Wash before you enter. Shower thoroughly at the washing station before soaking.

• Bathe naked. Swimsuits are not allowed (exceptions exist at mixed-gender or outdoor donation baths where modesty towels or suits may be used).

• No towels or hair in the water. Keep your towel on the edge, and tie up long hair.

• Soak quietly. Onsen are for unwinding, not chatting loudly.

• BYO towel and soap if visiting unmanned or day-use baths.

• Donation baths are common in Oku-Hida—drop ¥200–¥500 in the box provided.

Tattoos are sometimes prohibited in larger public baths. Smaller outdoor or rural spots are often more relaxed, but check signage or ask discreetly if unsure.

Staying Local: Ryokan, Minshuku & Guesthouses

Ryokan (旅館)

These are traditional Japanese inns—typically family-run—where you sleep on tatami mats, wear a yukata robe, and eat elaborately prepared kaiseki-style meals made with local produce.

• Onsen access is usually included—often both indoor and outdoor baths, some private.

• Dinner and breakfast are usually served in-room or in a communal dining area.

• Meals are a highlight: expect mountain vegetables, river fish, wild herbs, and seasonal delicacies.

• Arrive before 5–6pm to enjoy the full experience.

Minshuku (民宿)

Similar in atmosphere but simpler than a ryokan. Think of it as a Japanese B&B—hosted stays, home-cooked meals, and more rustic charm.

• Fewer amenities, but great value.

• Often family-run with warm local hospitality.

• Some may offer access to a small shared bath (not always an onsen).

Guesthouses & Pension-style Lodging

Western-style or mixed accommodation, sometimes run by younger hosts or those experimenting with rural tourism. Great for budget travellers or solo hikers.

• May or may not have hot springs.

• Some include kitchens, shared spaces, or camping options.

Taking the Waters

In Oku-Hida, bathing is not just cleansing—it’s about connection. To the water. To the land. To the moment. Whether you're soaking alone in a forest pool, joining locals in a simple riverside bath, or stepping barefoot across tatami to a steaming rotenburo at dusk, the onsens of Oku-Hida invite you to be still, naked, and present.

Bring a towel. Leave your phone. Let the mountains do the rest.

Day-Use Onsen in Oku-Hida’s Five Villages

Many ryokan open their baths to day guests—usually mid-morning to late afternoon. It’s a great way to sample different waters without staying overnight. Below are some of the best options across the region:

Hirayu Onsen (平湯温泉)

The oldest and largest town in the region, Hirayu was discovered in the 1560s by Takeda Shingen’s troops. It’s also the main transport hub.

• Hirayu no Mori (ひらゆの森)
  Hours: 10:00–21:00 (private baths: 12:00–15:00)
  Fee: ¥700 (private: ¥3000 / 45 mins)
  A large public bathhouse with expansive gender-separated outdoor baths nestled in forest. Private baths and simple accommodation also available.

• Hirayu-no-Yu (平湯の湯)
  Hours: 6:00–21:00 (from 8:00 in winter)
  Fee: Donation (~¥300)
  This simple, open-air onsen sits on the site of one of the region’s oldest hot springs. Legend has it that Hirayu Onsen was discovered when wounded warriors of the 16th-century Takeda clan found healing in its mineral-rich waters.

Shin-Hirayu Onsen (新平湯温泉)

Located across the river from Fukuji, this is Okuhida’s second-largest onsen town.

• Okuhida Garden Hotel Yakedake
  Hours: 12:00–22:00 (entry until 21:00)
  Fee: ¥900
  Known for its mixed-gender outdoor baths (modesty towels provided) and high-sulfur yellow water. Includes cave and waterfall features.

Shin-Hotaka Onsen (新穂高温泉)

Tucked deep into the valley beneath the Hotaka Mountains, with views of some of Japan’s highest peaks.

• Yarimikan (槍見館)
  Hours: 10:00–14:00 (irregular closures)
  Fee: ¥500
  Offers riverside outdoor baths with views of Mount Yarimidake. Two are mixed-gender and one is women-only. Indoor baths are for guests only.

• Shinhotaka Outdoor Public Onsen
  Hours: 8:00–18:00 (closed in winter
  Fee: Donation
  Mixed-gender outdoor baths on the river, women often wear swimming costumes. BYO towel

Fukuji Onsen (福地温泉)

A quiet, atmospheric village with traditional-style ryokan, many built using reclaimed farmhouses. A few open their baths to day guests—check locally for availability.

Tochio Onsen (栃尾温泉)

This is the smallest and least tourist-oriented of the five. Most minshuku (guesthouses) only open their baths to overnight guests, but it remains a great place for budget stays in a local setting.

• Koujin-no-Yu (荒神の湯)
  A simple riverside rotenburo, beloved by locals for its wild feel and view of the mountains.
  Hours: 8:00–20:00 (may vary seasonally)
  Fee: Donation (~¥300)
  Note: Bring your own towel & soap