Ikaho Onsen is a renowned hot spring town with a rich history, renowned for its dazzling golden and silver waters. The “golden” springs are rich in iron, giving the water a distinctive reddish-brown hue, and are believed to have therapeutic effects, particularly for muscle and joint ailments. The “silver” springs are clear and have a gentler mineral composition, offering a different, yet equally soothing, bathing experience.
Ikaho Onsen is famous for its 365 stone steps that lead up through the town, lined with traditional inns, shops, and bathhouses. This staircase is central to the town’s charm and a symbol of its long history as a popular onsen destination. At the top of the steps, visitors can find the Ikaho Shrine, which has a deep connection to the area’s onsen culture. Ikaho presents numerous attractions, including the picturesque Mount Haruna, which offers the prospect of hiking and taking in breathtaking vistas. The nearby Kajika Bridge is especially beautiful in autumn when the surrounding foliage turns vibrant shades of red and gold.
