Wakayama Photo Library

The Appeal of Enjoying Watarase Onsen as a Day Trip

Located in Hongu-cho, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture, Watarase Onsen is a natural hot spring nestled in the mountains, just a short distance from Kumano Hongu Taisha. The area is also home to Kawayu Onsen and Yunomine Onsen—together known as the three hot springs of Kumano—making it a popular base for hot spring hopping. Day-use bathing is available, so you can easily savor the atmosphere of a hidden hot spring.

One of Western Japan's Largest Open-Air Baths

Watarase Onsen is best known for its spacious open-air bath. Soaking leisurely while gazing at the lush green mountains and listening to the babbling of a clear stream is truly a special experience. The colorless, transparent water feels gentle on the skin and slowly soothes away the fatigue of long travels.

Perfect After Walking the Kumano Kodo

The surrounding area is dotted with highlights of the Kumano Kodo, such as Kumano Hongu Taisha and Hosshinmon-oji. As a day-use hot spring where you can wash off your sweat after walking the ancient trails, it is beloved by travelers from Japan and abroad.

How to Enjoy a Day Trip Plan

We recommend a course where you visit Kumano Hongu Taisha in the morning, have lunch, and then take a break at Watarase Onsen. On the way back, the riverbank at Kawayu Onsen and the breathtaking scenery along the Kumano River are also worth a stop. Even on a day trip, you can enjoy a luxurious day that lets you experience Kumano's nature, faith, and famed hot springs all at once.

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)