Okuhida Onsen: Secluded Tranquility in the Northern Alps

Okuhida Onsen Village is nestled amidst the majestic peaks of the Northern Alps, including notable summits like Yari-ga-take, Oku-hotaka-dake, and Mount Kasagatake, the highest in Gifu Prefecture. These mountains, part of the Chubu Sangaku National Park, boast diverse alpine flora and unique wildlife, offering seasonal climbing opportunities that attract mountaineers.

Hot Spring Areas

The village is renowned for its five natural hot spring resorts, each offering a range of baths from secluded outdoor hot springs to private baths. These tranquil settings provide a soothing escape for visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation away from the urban hustle and bustle. Foot bath information for Okuhida Onsen Village is available for those looking to enjoy a therapeutic soak while surrounded by the natural beauty of the area. Explore the enchanting Onsen towns nestled in the Okuhida region of Japan, featuring the serene hot spring areas of Hirayu, Fukuji, Shin-Hirayu, Tochio, and Shin-Hotaka. Each town offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making them perfect destinations for relaxation and adventure.

Hirayu Onsen

Hirayu Onsen is renowned for its discovery legend involving Takeda Shingen and an old monkey healing its wounds in the hot springs. This historic onsen has been soothing travelers since the Edo period. Nestled at the foot of Mount Norikura, Hirayu retains a rustic charm with its continuous flow of hot water.

Must-Visit Spots:

• Hirayu Folk Museum & Hirayu no Yu: This hidden gem features traditional Gassho-style houses relocated from Toyama Prefecture and offers free tours and rest areas. The adjoining "Hirayu no Yu" is a popular day-use bath with tea-brown waters.
• Hirayu no Mori: A resort with 16 outdoor baths surrounded by nature, offering a perfect blend of hot spring and forest bathing. Enjoy Hida beef dishes at the on-site restaurant.
• Hirayu Otaki: A majestic 64-meter waterfall, one of Japan's top 100, with a winter illumination festival.
• Hirayu Ski Resort: Known for its powder snow, the resort caters to all levels with diverse courses.

Fukuji Onsen

Fukuji Onsen is a quaint village with legends of fallen Heike warriors and imperial visits from the Heian era. It's also known as "Emperor's Onsen."

Highlights:

• Mukashibanashi no Sato & Isurugi no Yu: Experience traditional mountain village life with communal baths, rustic meals, and a fossil museum showcasing local finds.
• Fukuji Morning Market: A vibrant market offering seasonal produce and local delicacies, from mountain vegetables in spring to fresh fruits in autumn.

Shin-Hirayu Onsen

Combining historical charm and modern amenities, Shin-Hirayu Onsen is bustling with activity. The area features numerous inns, hotels, and ryokan, with abundant hot spring water.

Key Attractions:

• Enku Buddhist Statues: Visit the Zenjoji Temple to see carvings by the monk Enku, who stayed here during the Genroku period.
• Okuhida Kuma Bokujo (Bear Park): Home to over 100 bears, the park offers feeding experiences and close encounters with cubs.

Tochio Onsen

Tochio Onsen, named after the chestnut trees in the area, is known for its unpretentious inns and local cuisine featuring mountain vegetables and river fish.

Noteworthy Sites:

• Kojin no Yu: A rustic, riverside communal bath where you can soak in natural hot springs amidst towering mountains.
• Fishing and Nature: Enjoy trout fishing and the simple beauty of the surrounding nature.

Shin-Hotaka Onsen

Perched in the highlands, Shin-Hotaka Onsen offers breathtaking views of the Northern Alps and a plethora of outdoor hot spring baths.

Top Experiences:

• Shin-Hotaka Ropeway: Japan's only two-story ropeway, providing panoramic views from 2,200 meters above sea level.
• Nakasendai Hotsprings: Luxuriate in open-air baths alongside the Kamata River, with views of the changing seasons.
• Entertainment Facilities: From foot baths at Shirakaba-daira Station to retro game centers and comic corners, there's plenty to enjoy even on rainy days.

Day Use Hot Springs

Here are some hotels in Okuhida Onsenkyo that offer day use of their hot spring facilities:

1. Hodakaso Yamano Hotel

• Description: This hotel features open-air baths with stunning views of the Northern Alps. Day-use visitors can enjoy these baths and relax in the serene natural surroundings.
• Hours: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
• Fee: Varies depending on the season.

2. Hirayu no Mori

• Description: Hirayu no Mori offers a variety of outdoor baths set in a forest, providing a tranquil experience. The facility is known for its spacious bathing areas and traditional Japanese ambiance.
• Hours: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
• Fee: ¥600 for adults, ¥400 for children.

3. Yarimikan

• Description: This traditional ryokan provides open-air baths with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The hot springs are rich in minerals and offer a relaxing experience.
• Hours: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
• Fee: ¥1,000 for adults, ¥500 for children.

4. Shinhodaka Onsen Yamano Hotel

• Description: Located at the base of the Shinhotaka Ropeway, this hotel features a variety of hot spring baths, including private and public options. The panoramic mountain views add to the experience.
• Hours: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
• Fee: ¥1,200 for adults, ¥600 for children.

Nearby Attractions

• Norikura Skyline: Drive along Japan's highest paved road, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
• Hida Daishonyudo Cave: Japan's highest elevation cave, a perfect summer escape with its cool temperatures.
• Okuhida Mountain Village Farm: A charming farm offering horse riding and interactions with goats and rabbits.

Whether you're soaking in the therapeutic hot springs, exploring historical sites, or enjoying local cuisine, the Okuhida region promises an unforgettable experience blending relaxation, culture, and adventure.

Access

• From Tokyo: Shinkansen to Nagoya, then Limited Express to Takayama, then Nohi Bus to Okuhida Onsenkyo (Approx. 5 hours total by train).
• From Osaka or Kyoto: Shinkansen to Nagoya, then Limited Express to Takayama, then Nohi Bus to Okuhida Onsenkyo (Approx. 4 hours total by train). Direct bus options are also available from Kyoto.

From Tokyo:

By Train:

1. Tokyo to Takayama:
   • Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagoya Station (approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes).
   • Transfer to the JR Hida Limited Express from Nagoya Station to Takayama Station (approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes).
2. Takayama to Okuhida Onsenkyo:
   • Take the Nohi Bus from Takayama Station to Okuhida Onsenkyo (approximately 1 hour).

By Bus:

• Direct Bus:
  • Take a highway bus from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal (Busta Shinjuku) directly to Hirayu Onsen in Okuhida Onsenkyo (approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes).

From Osaka / Kyoto (Kansai area):

By Train:

1. Osaka / Kyoto to Takayama:
   • Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station to Nagoya Station (approximately 35 ~ 50 minutes).
   • Transfer to the JR Hida Limited Express from Nagoya Station to Takayama Station (approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes).
2. Takayama to Okuhida Onsenkyo:
   • Take the Nohi Bus from Takayama Station to Okuhida Onsenkyo (approximately 1 hour).

By Bus:

• Direct Bus:
  • There are direct highway buses from Kyoto Station to Takayama (approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes).
  • From Takayama, take the Nohi Bus to Okuhida Onsenkyo (approximately 1 hour).