Overview of Kaga Onsen-kyo
Kaga Onsen-kyo, located in Ishikawa Prefecture, is composed of four hot springs: “Awazu Onsen,” “Katayamazu Onsen,” “Yamashiro Onsen,” and “Yamanaka Onsen.” Situated along the coast of the Sea of Japan, this hot spring resort area is surrounded by rich nature, and its beautiful landscapes and high-quality hot springs have earned it the nickname “the hidden retreat of Kansai.”
Access is convenient, with a train ride from Tokyo taking approximately 3 hours and from Osaka about 2 hours, making it a popular destination for tourists both domestic and international.
Features of Each Hot Spring Area
Awazu Onsen
Awazu Onsen has a history of 1,300 years and is said to have been founded by the monk “Taicho.” Historic inns are still in operation, offering a lodging experience steeped in history.
Katayamazu Onsen
Katayamazu Onsen is located by Lake “Shibayama-gata” and offers stunning views of the “Hakusan Mountain Range.” The modern architecture of the “Soyu” public bath is a highlight. In summer, you can enjoy fireworks over the lake, and at night, the illuminated large fountain is a must-see.
Yamashiro Onsen
Yamashiro Onsen boasts a history of over 1,300 years and is known for the legend of the three-legged crow “Yatagarasu.” You can experience traditional hot spring culture at the communal baths “Soyu” and “Ko-Soyu.” The historic streets, once visited by literary figures, are also worth exploring.
Yamanaka Onsen
Yamanaka Onsen, praised by the famous poet Matsuo Basho, is characterized by the beautiful scenery of the “Kakusenkei Gorge.” It features impressive bridges such as “Koorogi Bridge” and “Ayatori Bridge.” The “Yuge Kaido” street, lined with galleries showcasing “Yamanaka lacquerware” and “Kutani porcelain,” is also worth visiting.
Enjoying Kaga Onsen-kyo
Staying at Onsen Inns
Kaga Onsen-kyo offers a variety of accommodations where you can spend luxurious time. There are many options, including private open-air baths and traditional Japanese-style rooms. Enjoying meals made with fresh local ingredients is also one of the pleasures.
For example, at the inn “Rurikoh,” you can enjoy hot springs in five private open-air baths, providing a private space for relaxation.
Strolling Through Onsen Towns
The onsen towns are lined with cafes and souvenir shops where you can enjoy food and shopping. Traditional craft workshops and gallery tours are also recommended.
For instance, in Yamanaka Onsen, you can explore galleries showcasing “Yamanaka lacquerware” and “Kutani porcelain” on “Yuge Kaido.”
Activities and Events
Seasonal Events
Kaga Onsen-kyo hosts various seasonal events such as summer lake fireworks and winter illuminations in the onsen towns. Traditional events like the “Shobu-yu Festival” and “Koikoi Festival” are not to be missed.
Nature and Outdoor Activities
You can enjoy hiking and cycling around “Kakusenkei Gorge” and “Shibayama-gata,” as well as seaside walks and picnics along the Echizen-Kaga Coast. Hiking in “Kakusenkei” is popular for its beautiful gorge views.
Cultural Experiences
Craft experiences with “Kutani porcelain” and “Yamanaka lacquerware,” as well as tours of local sake breweries, are also attractive. You can also enjoy traditional performances like “Yamanaka-bushi” and “Kaga Taiko.” For example, at “Kissho Yamanaka,” you can watch the traditional performance of “Yamanaka-bushi.”
Kaga Onsen-kyo is a wonderful tourist destination full of natural beauty and the charm of hot springs. Be sure to visit and experience its allure.
Official Website: https://www.tabimati.net/
