What to know
Ikaho is one of Gunma Prefecture's most famous hot spring resorts. While not as well-known as nearby Kusatsu, its baths offer a unique experience thanks to the unusually high iron content in the spring water, which gives it a reddish-brown color and a metallic taste. Bathing in or drinking the water is said to help with conditions like fatigue and poor circulation.
The hot spring source is located about 500 meters past the top of the stone steps and can be viewed through a clear casing near the public outdoor bath (Ikaho Rotemburo). Ikaho has two public bathhouses open to day visitors. Additionally, many local ryokan along the steps allow non-guests to use their baths during the day for a small fee (typically 500 to 1500 yen).
Ratings: best of the best best of Japan outstanding
How to get to and around Ikaho Onsen
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- 9:00 to 18:00 (from 10:00 from October to March)
- Closed
- 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month (except national holidays)
- Admission
- 600 yen (~$3.84)
- English name
- Original name
- Ikaho Hotspring Baths
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.