Tochigi-Ji-Guide in English
Kinugawa & Kawachi
renowned as unrivaled hot spring resorts in the Kanto Region
Kinugawa Hot Spring boasts of being one of the largest hot spring sites in the Kanto Region. Various theme parks are also located in the vicinity. Kawaji Hot Spring prospered in the Edo Period as a post town along the Aizu Nishi Route, and also as a spa resort. The legacy of those days is still visible here.
There are many must-see landmarks around this area, including theme parks featuring unique attractions and the dynamic Ryuokyo Ravine with many unusual and intriguing rocks.
Sightseeing spot navigation
Ryuokyo Ravine
Volcanic rocks, formed as a result of underwater volcanic activity some 22 million years ago, have been eroded by the flow of the Kinugawa River, producing a dynamic vista reminding viewers of a dragon wiggling along the river bank. The nature trail along the river is the best place to admire the beautiful valley that changes its appearance by season.
Nichien Momiji (Maple) Line
The 28-kilometer driving course connecting Shiobara Hot Springs, the Kinugawa River and Kawaji Hot Springs offers a superb view, particularly during the seasons of fresh greenery and autumnal tints. Along this route, there are also Arayu Hot Springs, Keicho Highland, Taiko-oroshi Falls and Shirataki Falls, an observatory commanding a panoramic view of the Nikko Mountain Range on fine days and ski hills (Hunter Mountain, Edelweiss, etc.).
Theme parks
Kinugawa Hot Springs has many popular theme parks that are always bustling with tourists. Nikko Edo Village has reproduced post stations, the downtown area and old samurai residences of the Edo Period. Tobu World Square has elaborate miniature reproductions of architectural masterpieces and renowned worldwide monuments. In Western Village, the streetscapes of the pioneer era American West of the 19th century are revived faithfully. Have a pleasant time at the Nikko Monkey Corps Center where funny monkeys stage various shows, prompting spectators to burst into laughter.
Kinugawa River Boat Rides
Japanese-style boats accommodating 30 people go on a 40-minute ride for some 6 km down the Kinugawa River. The boatman’s skillful rowing enables passengers to enjoy a dynamic, thrilling ride while admiring the remarkable scenery produced by unusual rocks and intriguing stones.
Ryuosai Festival
This festival is the main festival of the Kinugawa River and Kawaji Hot Spring area. A variety of portable shrines are paraded in the street, and folk entertainments are staged and Ryuo drum playing is demonstrated as an offering to the god of the Ryuo Shrine.
Kinugawa Hot Springs
Japanese-style inns and hotels line the magnificent Kinugawa River valley. This area has developed into a leading hot spring resorts because of its convenient transportation access from the Tokyo metropolitan area. The simple alkaline hot spring is effective for healing neuralgia and fatigue. The surrounding environment shows different aspects by season, and is particularly impressive in the seasons of fresh greenery, autumnal tints and snow.
Kawaji Hot Springs
A quiet hot spring resort nestled in the valley where the Ojika River and the Kinugawa River merge. Since around 1723 when the spa is believed to have been discovered, Kawaji has prospered as a post town along the Aizu Nishi Street by attracting travelers and guests coming to cure diseases. Although large hotels with modern facilities have been built by the river in recent years, this area retains a traditional atmosphere exclusive to hot spring resorts. The simple alkaline hot spring is efficacious for neuralgia and rheumatism. This area is particularly beautiful in the seasons of verdant green and fall colors.