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What is Kumano Hongu Onsen-kyo?
Spread across Hongu Town in Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture, 'Kumano Hongu Onsen-kyo' is the collective name for three distinctive hot spring areas: Yunomine, Kawayu, and Watarase. The culture of therapeutic bathing (toji) alongside pilgrimages to Kumano Hongu Taisha is still alive today, and these springs are cherished as places to soothe the fatigue of walking the Kumano Kodo.
Comparing the Features of the Three Hot Springs
Yunomine Onsen | One of Japan's Oldest Therapeutic Bathing Towns
A historic hot spring area said to have been discovered around 1,800 years ago. Known for 'Tsuboyu,' a UNESCO World Heritage-listed bath, the small village is filled with the atmosphere of rising steam. Long revered as a place for ritual purification (yugori) on the Kumano pilgrimage, its quiet and solemn atmosphere is its greatest charm.
Kawayu Onsen | A Rustic Spring Welling Up from the Riverbed
A unique hot spring where hot water bubbles up when you dig into the riverbed of the Otonashi River (Ototo River). In winter, the enormous open-air 'Sennin-buro' (Bath of a Thousand People) appears when the river is dammed, offering a popular sense of openness in which you can become one with the river. Recommended for those who want to enjoy nature actively.
Watarase Onsen | Spacious Baths the Whole Family Can Enjoy
The newest of the three, featuring one of the largest open-air baths in western Japan. With a campground nearby, it's ideal for families and groups seeking a relaxed stay.
How to Choose Based on Your Travel Style
- Want to experience history and faith → Yunomine
- Want to enjoy bathing in harmony with nature → Kawayu
- Want to relax with family → Watarase
All three hot springs are within a few minutes' drive of each other, making it easy to hop between them. Combine your visit with a pilgrimage to Kumano Hongu Taisha and find your own favorite bath.
Image: 和歌山フォトライブラリー (via 和歌山フォトライブラリー)
