Ikaho Onsen
Climb the Golden Stone Steps to Healing Waters
Ikaho Onsen has over 1,400 years of history and was mentioned in the ancient poetry anthology Man'yoshu from the 8th century. The town developed its unique character during the Warring States period (16th century) when it was rebuilt in its current terraced layout on Mt. Haruna's slopes. The distinctive stone staircase connecting the town's levels became Ikaho's iconic feature, lined with ryokan and shops taking advantage of the steep topography.
The town is famous for having two types of hot spring water: 'kogane-no-yu' (golden water) rich in iron that oxidizes to a brown color, and 'shirogane-no-yu' (silver water) discovered in 1996 that is colorless and transparent. The golden water's high iron content gives it therapeutic properties and the distinctive color that has made Ikaho famous for centuries. During the Meiji period, Ikaho became a favorite resort of writers and artists, inspiring numerous literary works.
The iconic stone staircase was renovated in 1980 and now has 365 steps (representing the days of the year), each marked with a number and occasional hot spring outlets where water flows alongside. The staircase walk, passing steaming water channels, traditional architecture, and shops selling local crafts and hot spring manju (steamed buns), epitomizes the Japanese hot spring town experience. At the top sits Ikaho Shrine, the town's spiritual center overlooking the valley below.
Key Highlights
- Iconic 365-step stone staircase through town center
- Two types of therapeutic hot spring water (gold and silver)
- Traditional terraced town built on mountainside
- Ikaho Shrine at the staircase summit
- Rotemburo outdoor bath with valley views
- Historic literary and artistic associations
Access Information
Location
Ikaho, Shibukawa, Gunma 377-0102, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Shibukawa Station (JR Joetsu Line) - then bus
Opening Hours
Town: 24 hours | Public baths: 9:00-21:00 | Shrine: 24 hours
Admission Fee
Town: Free | Public baths: ¥400-450 | Ropeway: ¥830 round trip
How to Get There
From Tokyo
JR Joetsu Shinkansen to Takasaki, JR to Shibukawa, then bus (25 min)
2.5 hours
From Tokyo (Shinjuku)
Highway bus directly to Ikaho Onsen bus terminal
2.5 hours
From Kusatsu Onsen
Bus connection (seasonal, limited schedule)
2 hours
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Climb All 365 Stone Steps
The stone staircase IS the experience - allow 30-45 minutes to climb leisurely from bottom to top, exploring shops and viewing points. Golden hot spring water flows in channels alongside. Each step is numbered. At the top, visit Ikaho Shrine for valley views. Early morning or evening offers the best atmosphere.
Try Both Golden and Silver Water Baths
Public baths: Ishidannoyu (golden water, ¥450, midway up stairs) and Ikaho Rotemburo (outdoor bath, ¥450, near top). Most ryokan have golden water. The brown 'kogane-no-yu' is Ikaho's signature - rich in iron with healing properties. Silver water is gentler on skin.
Stay Overnight at Traditional Ryokan
Ikaho's charm is best experienced with an overnight stay at a ryokan lining the stone steps (¥15,000-35,000 per person with meals). Evening yukata strolls up the illuminated steps, in-room kaiseki dinners, and morning mountain views define the onsen town experience. Book ahead, especially weekends.
Try Onsen Manju and Local Specialties
Ikaho manju (steamed buns with sweet filling), invented here in the Meiji period, are sold everywhere. Try them fresh and hot from shops along the steps. Also sample yaki-manju (grilled manju with sweet miso), local soba, and Joshu beef. Cafes offer mountain views.
Explore Beyond the Main Staircase
Walk to Kawara-no-yu (free outdoor foot bath), visit the source of the golden water (Kogane-no-yu source), hike to nearby waterfalls, or take the ropeway to Mt. Monokiki for panoramic views. The area around the shrine has quieter paths and observation points.
Evening Illumination Creates Magic
The stone steps and golden water channels are illuminated after sunset, creating a romantic, nostalgic atmosphere. Ryokan guests in colorful yukata walking the steps make perfect shots. Early morning (6:00-8:00 AM) also offers beautiful misty mountain scenery with few tourists.
Visit During Festivals
Ikaho Onsen Matsuri (September) features portable shrine processions on the stone steps and traditional performances. The Oyama Festival and various seasonal events celebrate local culture. Winter illuminations (December-March) add magical lighting to the snowy staircase.
Each Season Offers Different Beauty
Spring: mountain flowers and fresh green. Summer: cool mountain escape from Tokyo heat, festivals. Autumn (Oct-Nov): spectacular foliage on surrounding mountains. Winter: snow-covered steps and steaming hot springs create magical scenes. Less crowded than summer.
FAQ
How long should I spend in Ikaho?
One night is ideal to enjoy the baths and atmosphere. Day trips from Tokyo are possible but allow limited time. Two nights lets you fully relax and explore surroundings.
What are the stone steps about?
The 365 stone steps are Ikaho's symbol, lined with shops, restaurants, and inns. Each step represents a day of the year. Climbing them is the quintessential Ikaho experience.
What's special about the golden water?
Ikaho's 'golden' water contains iron, giving it a distinctive brown color. It's said to help with fatigue and women's health. The newer 'silver' water is colorless and gentler.
Can I bathe with tattoos?
Most public baths prohibit tattoos. Some ryokan offer private baths or room baths for tattooed guests. The public Ikaho Outdoor Bath has stricter policies.
What food is Ikaho famous for?
Mizusawa udon is the local specialty - thick, chewy noodles served cold or hot. Onsen manju (brown sugar steamed buns) originated here. Try both during your visit.
Is it good for families?
Yes, many ryokan welcome families. The ropeway, toy and car museums, and nearby Green Bokujo ranch offer kid-friendly activities beyond bathing.
What's there besides hot springs?
Ikaho Shrine at the top of stone steps, ropeway for mountain views, several museums, and seasonal activities. Autumn colors are particularly beautiful.
How does it compare to Kusatsu?
Smaller and less famous than Kusatsu but more accessible from Tokyo. Less sulfuric smell. The stone steps create unique atmosphere. Both offer authentic onsen experiences.
When is the best time to visit?
Autumn for fall colors, winter for snow scenery and warming baths. Spring and summer are pleasant but busier. Avoid Japanese holiday periods when fully booked.
How do I get there from Tokyo?
JR to Shibukawa Station then bus (2 hours total) or direct highway bus from Shinjuku (2.5 hours). The train option offers more flexibility for departure times.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Kusatsu Onsen
Japan's most famous hot spring resort, renowned for its highly acidic healing waters, traditional yumomi performances, and charming mountain town atmosphere at 1,200 meters elevation.
Minakami Onsen
A collection of hot spring resorts in the mountains north of Tokyo, famous for outdoor adventure sports, river rafting, and traditional ryokan hospitality.
Oze National Park
A pristine highland marshland famous for wooden boardwalks through flowering wetlands, mirror-like ponds, and some of Japan's most spectacular alpine scenery.
Takaragawa Onsen
Japan's largest outdoor mixed-gender hot spring bath along a pristine mountain river, featuring rustic wooden ryokan architecture and therapeutic waters in a remote mountain valley setting.