Nozawa Hot Spring Kawarayu
Hot Spring Overview
Located slightly downhill from Ōyu, Kawarayu gets its name from its original location in a sunken riverbed area along a mountain stream.
The water temperature is relatively high, making it ideal for morning baths, and it is especially popular during the summer.
Though smaller than Ōyu, it features a traditional wooden bathhouse with a classic architectural style.
The hot spring water comes from the Ogama and Kawarayu sources.
Hot Spring Details
Practical Info
Visit Log
Bath Types
Facilities
Access Information
Take the Shinkansen to JR Iiyama Station, then transfer to the direct bus “Nozawa Onsen Liner”, which takes approximately 25 minutes to reach Nozawa Onsen.
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About Secluded Rating
Access (Difficulty to Reach)
15min walk
Scenery & Atmosphere
City area
Onsen Value
Historic unique spring
Nozawa Onsen is an easily accessible hot spring village, reachable by car or public transportation.
Despite its accessibility, it holds a unique distinction—it is the only village in Japan with "Onsen" (hot spring) in its name, and the hot spring culture is deeply woven into the fabric of daily life.
Scattered throughout the village are 13 communal bathhouses (soto-yu), each with a simple and modest design—just a space to remove your shoes and a small changing area. Rather than being tourist facilities, these baths are considered "baths for daily life," intimately connected to the local community.
These communal baths are maintained and managed by a group of local residents known as “Yunakama”, who distribute hot spring water from the source free of charge to each facility.
Though Nozawa Onsen is a popular destination, its enduring culture of communal bathing and its deep local traditions give it the authentic charm of a hidden onsen.