Hotels in Kinugawa Onsen

Whispers of Serenity: Unveil the Hidden Wonders of Kinugawa Onsen

Nestled in the heart of Tochigi Prefecture, Kinugawa Onsen is a picturesque retreat where Japanese tranquility meets rich history. Famous for its soothing hot springs, this charming destination offers stunning views of the Kinugawa River and the scenic Kinugawa Gorge. Explore nearby temples, majestic waterfalls, and the thrilling Edo Wonderland theme park for a taste of traditional Japan. Ideal for couples and nature lovers alike, Kinugawa Onsen is the perfect getaway for relaxation and adventure, making it a must-visit on your Japan trip. Experience the harmony of nature and culture in this enchanting onsen town. For the best hotel rates in Kinugawa Onsen, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Kinugawa Onsen

Some of the best places to stay in Kinugawa Onsen are Nikko, Nasu and Utsunomiya. Nikko, Nasu, and Utsunomiya offer diverse experiences for travelers. Nikko is renowned for its historic shrines and natural beauty, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Nasu features hot springs and outdoor activities, while Utsunomiya is famous for its gyoza and urban charm. Accommodations range from traditional onsen ryokans with tatami rooms and communal hot springs to modern hotels with private onsens. Kinugawa Onsen, near Nikko, boasts numerous onsen hotels and ryokans, perfect for relaxation after exploring. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Kinugawa Onsen:

1. NikkoOpens in a new window: Nikko is a stunning destination known for its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural scenery. Key attractions include the tranquil Lake Chūzenji, the historic Toshogu Shrine, and the family-friendly Tobu World Square. For accommodations, consider The Ritz-Carlton, NikkoOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel with a natural hot spring and adventure activities such as mountain climbing and fishing. Another excellent option is Kinugawa Kanaya HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star ryokan featuring both indoor and outdoor public onsens, perfect for relaxation. For a more affordable yet comfortable stay, Hoshino Resorts KAI KawajiOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel that provides a natural hot spring experience combined with a focus on wellness.
2. NasuOpens in a new window: Nasu is a family-friendly area that offers fun-filled activities, from thrilling rides at Nasu Highland Park to cultural experiences at the Fujishiro Seiji Museum. For lodging, Hotel Epinard NasuOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star resort with both indoor and outdoor hot springs, ideal for families and business travelers alike. If you're looking for a more traditional experience, Nasu Onsen SanrakuOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star ryokan with excellent hot spring amenities and facilities for business meetings. For those who enjoy golf and spa treatments, Nasu Sunlight HotelOpens in a new window is another 4.0-star resort that provides a full-service spa and relaxation options.
3. UtsunomiyaOpens in a new window: Utsunomiya is a lively city that offers a mix of cultural and recreational activities, including the Oya History Museum and Utsunomiya Central Park. For accommodations, Utsunomiya Tobu Hotel GrandeOpens in a new window is a comfortable 3.5-star hotel with a restaurant and entertainment options, making it a great base for exploring the area. Another option is Richmond Hotel Utsunomiya Ekimae AnnexOpens in a new window, also a 3.5-star hotel that caters well to families with its dining choices and entertainment amenities. Lastly, Hotel Higashinihon UtsunomiyaOpens in a new window is a 3.5-star hotel that provides various dining options and leisure activities, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

Things to do in Kinugawa Onsen for first time

Kinugawa Onsen offers travelers a three-day escape into serene Japanese tranquility, surrounded by lush mountains, vibrant forests, and soothing rivers. Visitors can unwind in famous onsens, explore picturesque waterfalls, and enjoy scenic parks, making it a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in a breathtaking natural setting. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Kinugawa Onsen:

• Day 1: Start your Kinugawa Onsen adventure at Edo Wonderland, a historical theme park that immerses you in the Edo period of Japan. Explore the traditional streets, watch live performances, and even dress up in period costumes. Afterward, take a scenic drive to Kirifuri Waterfall, where you can enjoy the serene beauty of nature and capture stunning photographs. Conclude your day at the Trick Art Museum, where you can interact with mind-bending 3D art and enjoy some fun photo opportunities that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
• Day 2: Begin your exploration at Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. Marvel at its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture. Next, visit the Tamozawa Imperial Villa, renowned for its beautiful gardens and historical significance. Take a peaceful stroll through the expansive grounds. Wrap up your day at Rinno-ji Temple, where you can admire the stunning sacred structures and serene atmosphere, perfect for reflection and tranquility.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Lake Chūzenji, a breathtaking spot ideal for nature lovers. Enjoy views of the surrounding mountains and perhaps take a boat ride. Next, head to the iconic Shinkyo Bridge, known for its picturesque beauty and a symbol of Nikko. Finally, end your day at Futarasan Shrine, where you can explore the sacred grounds and appreciate the spirituality of this historic site, making sure to soak in the peaceful surroundings before concluding your trip.

5 tips to find a great Kinugawa Onsen hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: If you're looking for an affordable getaway, the best times to visit Kinugawa Onsen are February, June, and July, when hotel prices are lower. For international travelers, it's wise to book your flight at least a month in advance to secure the best deals. To fully enjoy the area's main attractions, plan to stay for at least 1-2 days. Kinugawa Onsen offers great value for money with its beautiful temples, stunning waterfalls, and scenic lake, making it a perfect destination for those on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for great last-minute deals to Kinugawa Onsen, check out Hotels.com. Navigate to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you may discover enticing discounts on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. You could also enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay informed about flash sales and special last-minute offers, helping you potentially snag a great rate on your stay in the Nikko area. Don't miss your chance to save on your next getaway!
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could help you potentially save on hotel expenses in Kinugawa Onsen.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, think about your location. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, finding a balance between cost and easy access to the sites you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Kinugawa Onsen and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

Best time to go to Kinugawa Onsen

Kinugawa Onsen experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 30.2°F (-1.0°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 74.8°F (23.8°C). July tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Kinugawa Onsen are August, October, and November, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by light to moderate rainfall. In contrast, January, February, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.