🗺️ Okunikkō Onsen奥鬼怒（おくきぬ）温泉

Located in the Kinugawa River basin of Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture, the hot spring area "Oku-Kinugawa Onsen" features four hot spring inns, each offering a variety of different hot spring sources. Due to its early lack of road infrastructure and inconvenient transportation, it has earned the nickname "the last hidden hot spring of Kanto." Situated within the Nikko National Park, which preserves the original beech forest, general vehicle access is still prohibited to protect the natural landscape. Some inns provide shuttle services, and non-staying guests can only reach the area on foot. Enjoying a leisurely one-hour walk amidst the lush greenery before relaxing in the hot springs can be a delightful experience. Some inns also welcome day visitors to soak in the hot springs, making it a great opportunity for a hot spring tour. Nearby Oku-Kinugawa Onsen, there are well-known hiking areas such as "Kinuguma," "Oroosoroshi Falls (オロオソロシの滝)," and "Hinataosoroshi Falls (ヒナタオソロシの滝)," among many other scenic spots worth visiting. You can enjoy a healing time while bathing in both the forest and the hot springs.

There are four hot spring accommodations in the area, known as the "last hidden hot spring of Kanto." Located within the "Nikko National Park," general vehicle access is currently prohibited to protect the natural landscape. Some accommodations allow day-use hot spring access for non-staying guests. There are popular hiking areas nearby, so it’s a good idea to visit after a hike.