Ikaho Onsen in Gunma prefecture is a hot spring town with a charming retro vibe, a long history, and great access from Tokyo. Ikaho Onsen is most well-known for its 365-step staircase, which is sandwiched by stores and businesses on both sides to create a picturesque hillside townscape. Ikaho Onsen is also rich with historical sites and vibrant nature, and will keep you pleased whether your stay is a day trip or overnight stay. This article is your guide to navigating Ikaho Onsen hot spring town's staircase village and history.
About Ikaho Onsen Hot Springs
The beginning of Ikaho Onsen's stone staircase
Ikaho Onsen locates in the city of Shibukawa, in central Gunma prefecture. The hot spring is mentioned in the famous poetry collection from the 8th century, the “Manyoshu”, and has a history of over 1,200 years. During the Edo period, Ikaho Onsen reached its peak popularity as a rest stop for travelers.
Kusatsu Onsen and Shima Onsen are equally popular hot spring towns in Gunma prefecture, but both of these are located further into the mountains. Meanwhile, Ikaho Onsen is close to cities like Maebashi and Takasaki, making access much easier.
The two types of hot springs at Ikaho Onsen
At Ikaho Onsen, there are two hot spring sources.
The first of the two is the "Kogane-no-Yu" (the golden spring). This was originally the only hot spring at Ikaho Onsen, and its name was synonymous with the town itself. Kogane-no-Yu's hot spring water is naturally transparent, but is given a dark brown color as the water's iron content oxidizes in the air. This hot spring is light in stimulus and soft on the skin, and is said to have aid the healing of wounds and illnesses.
The second hot spring is called the "Shirogane-no-Yu" (the silver spring). This natural hot spring was discovered relatively recently, and unlike the former, retains its transparency when exposed to air. The Shirogane-no-Yu is said to aid the recovery of illnesses and exhaustion.
5 Must-see Things at Ikaho Onsen
The 365-step staircase village
The sign for the 365th step
One of Ikaho Onsen’s most well-known spots, is the townscape sandwiching a steep stone staircase. These stairs which will be your walking trail as you stroll through Ikaho Onsen's hot spring town. The original staircase was built approximately 400 years ago, and were most recently renewed in 1980.
The staircase was originally only 315 steps, but was expanded to 365 steps in 2010. The reason for this was the hot spring town's wish for Ikaho Onsen to have the same bustle and energy, for all 365 days of the year. Surrounding the staircase is a variety of restaurants and stores that make perfect rest stops during your stroll through Ikaho Onsen.
Ikaho Onsen Ishidan-no-Yu (Stone Staircase Hot Spring)
Ishidan no Yu
Ishidan no Yu is a public hot springs facility located near the beginning of the stone steps. The baths at Ishidan no Yu use the same stone as the ones used in the stone steps, and are filled with the dark brown Kogane-no-Yu.
Ishidan-no-Yu public bath makes a great, easy hot spring visit because of its location at the bottom of the stairs. Towels are available for purchase on-site as well.
The original "onsen manju" (hot spring bun)
Onsen manju
Many onsen towns in Japan sell onsen manju. Onsen manju are soft steamed buns, and although they have become well-known around the country now, they actually originate from Ikaho.
There are tons of onsen manju vendors in Ikaho. One of the most famous shops is Shogetsudo, which has been making onsen manju since 1910. This shop is said to be where the onsen manju was born. It is located near the top of the stone steps.
Ikaho Jinja Shrine
Ikaho jinja
Ikaho Jinja Shrine can be found at the top of of the stone steps. The shrine was made in 825, and worships the god of hot springs and medicine. Since the shrine is located high up, the view of the town from here is amazing.
Kajika-bashi Bridge
Kajika-bashi Bridge
Kajika-bashi Bridge locates about a 15-minute walk away from Ikaho Jinja. The bridge is surrounded by nature.
The area is especially beautiful in the fall months. From late October to early November, the bridge is lit up after sunset. The leaves surround the bridge has changed colors as well during the autumn months, and creates an unbelievably beautiful view.
Ikaho Ropeway & Uenoyama Park
Hototogisu Station
The Ikaho Ropeway connects Hototogisu Station, located in the onsen town area, and the 932-meter tall Mount Monokiki. The four-minute ropeway ride carries you to the top of the mountain.
The view from Uenoyama Park
Uenoyama Park locates at the top of Mount Monokiki. The park has an observatory space, field and a skating rink. From here, you can observe the Kanto Plains, Mount Tanigawa and more. Come after sunset for a beautiful night view.
Access to Ikaho Onsen Hot Springs
Nearest station: Ikaho Ishidangai Bus Stop / Ikaho Onsen Bus Stop
Access from Shinjuku Station
【Shinjuku Sta.】JR Bus Joshu Meguri / for Kusatsu Onsen
→【Ikaho Ishidangai Bus Stop】
Access from Maebashi Station
【Maebashi Sta.】JR Ryomo Line / for Takasaki
→【Shin-Maebashi Sta.】JR Joetsu Line / for Shibukawa
→【Shibukawa Sta.】Kanetsu Kotsu Local Bus / for Ikaho Onsen
→【Ikaho Onsen Bus Stop】
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