Kawayu Onsen, nestled in the lush greenery of Wakayama Prefecture, is one of Japan’s unique hot spring areas. The area is renowned for a special thermal spring that emerges from the riverbed of Oto River. The most unusual feature of Kawayu Onsen is the ability to dig your own personal hot spring bath in the river’s gravel during winter, creating a unique sennin-buro (thousand person bath) experience.
Beyond the hot springs, Kawayu Onsen is also famous as a gateway to the spiritual sites of the Kii Mountains, including the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes and Kumano Sanzan shrines. The serene ambiance, combined with the rich cultural heritage and the healing properties of the springs, make Kawayu Onsen a captivating destination for wellness seekers and culture enthusiasts alike.