Introduction: The Tranquil Sanctuary Where Rivers Meet
Just 11 kilometers upstream from its busier neighbor, Kinugawa, lies Kawaji Onsen (川治温泉), a peaceful sanctuary nestled at the confluence of the Kinugawa and Ojika Rivers. [27, 14, 8] Discovered over 300 years ago during the Edo period, Kawaji has long been cherished as a therapeutic post station for travelers on the Aizu West Highway. [14, 28] Unlike the grand resorts of Kinugawa, Kawaji offers a rustic, “Slow Life” experience where the soundtrack is the rushing water and the rustling leaves of Nikko National Park. [8, 29]
Key Information Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 〒321-2611 栃木県日光市川治温泉川治 / Kawaji, Nikko City, Tochigi |
| Google Maps | View on Google Maps |
| Mapcode for GPS | 367 805 750*51 (Yakushi-no-yu) [30] |
| Spring Quality | Simple Alkaline Spring (Weakly Alkaline / Gentle) |
| Benefits | Historically renowned for healing cuts/wounds, neuralgia, and rheumatism. [14, 28] |
| Access | Alight at Kawaji-Yumoto Station (Yagan Railway). Approx. 20 mins from Kinugawa. [27, 28] |
| Number of Ryokans | Approximately 10 traditional inns. [27, 8] |
| Day-trip Bathing | Yakushi-no-yu Public Bath (10:00 AM – 8:00 PM); Fee: 700 JPY. [30, 31] |
The Healing Waters: The “Bihada-no-yu” Beauty Water
Kawaji’s water is a Simple Alkaline Spring that is extremely gentle on the skin. While Kinugawa is famous for burns, Kawaji is medically recognized for its effectiveness in healing cuts and external injuries—a legacy from its days serving wounded warriors. [7, 14, 29] The water is also nicknamed “Bihada-no-yu” (Hot Water for Beautiful Skin) because its mild alkalinity helps smooth and hydrate the skin surface. [30, 31]
Top 5 Recommended Stays
- TAOYA Kawaji (TAOYA川治): Address: 22. An all-inclusive resort re-branded in 2024, offering mountain views, free-flow snacks and drinks, and a large communal bath with a modern twist on Japanese luxury.
- Iwaiyado Jyuan (祝宿 寿庵): Address: 52. A mid-range, highly-rated traditional ryokan known for its beautiful Japanese gardens and meticulous Kaiseki courses that highlight local Nikko beef and river fish. [32]
- Hoshino Resorts KAI Kawaji (星野リゾート 界 川治): Address: 22. Focuses on “Mountain Living” culture; guests can experience traditional paper-making (Washi) and millstone-grinding of flour on-site. [12]
- Ichiryukaku Honkan (一柳閣本館): Address: 2. A historic value stay that sits right on the riverbank, offering excellent riverside open-air baths for budget-conscious travelers. [32, 29]
- LiVEMAX RESORT KAWAJI: Address: 11. A modern, efficient option for backpackers and hikers, featuring an indoor mineral spring and comfortable, functional rooms.
Must-Visit Public Baths: Yakushi-no-yu
Yakushi-no-yu: This public bathhouse is the heart of the community. [30, 31]
Konyoku (Mixed Bathing): It features a traditional mixed-gender riverside bath (bathing suits or modesty towels are common for international visitors). It offers some of the best views of the Ojika River scenery. [30, 31]
Musubi no Yu: A charming footbath in the Fureai Park where you can interact with the locals. [31]
Walking Guide: Ryuokyo Nature Trail
The Ryuokyo Gorge trail connects Kawaji and Kinugawa. The 6-kilometer nature trail takes roughly 3 hours and showcases stunning rock formations like the “White Dragon” and “Purple Dragon” gorges, formed 22 million years ago by volcanic activity. [31, 33, 34, 35] Don’t miss the Nijimi Falls, where rainbows frequently appear on sunny mornings. [31, 34]
Local Gastronomy & Souvenirs
Kawaji Dam Curry: A specialty at the Dam Museum restaurant—the rice is shaped like Japan’s 4th tallest arch concrete dam, holding back a reservoir of savory vegetable curry. [31, 36]
River Fish Grabbing: In summer, you can catch freshwater fish (Ayu) by hand in the Ojika River, which the local ryokans will grill for you on skewers.
Cultural & Historical Context
Found in 1723 when a massive flood revealed the spring source, Kawaji was a vital stop for the Taira (Heike) clan and later Edo-period feudal lords. [14, 29, 31] The town features the “Onade-ishi,” a sacred rock believed to bring luck in fertility and love to those who pray there. [30, 31]
Practical Travel Tips
- Tattoo Policy: Yakushi-no-yu is generally tolerant of foreign visitors with tattoos, though cover stickers are appreciated in the indoor areas.
- Connectivity: Expect strong mobile signals in town, but the Ryuokyo hiking trail has several “Dead Zones.”
- Driving: The road involves several narrow tunnels. Renting a 4WD vehicle with winter tires is mandatory for the 2025-2026 winter season. [25, 37, 26]
2025-2026 Latest Updates
Ryuoh Festival 2025: A major summer event (July) involving Shinto rituals at the Dragon King Shrine and dramatic fireworks over the gorge. [38]
Sustainable Infrastructure: The town is currently renovating its central bus terminal and developing the new “Momiji Park” to enhance sustainable accessibility for eco-tourists by 2026.
Safety & Manners
In mixed baths, respect the quiet and avoid direct eye contact or photography. While hiking, be aware of land leeches (April–Nov) and wear suitable footwear. [33, 34]
