Join Us for Fall 2010

          The first two nights we will stay at Shirahama Onsen, about 3 hours by train from Osaka. This seaside onsen has a collection of public baths, a nice mix of restaurants, and several convenience stores -- making it the perfect place to relax and get over any jet lag. Of the baths, Sakinoyu is the most famous: a stunning spot right on the oceanside where you can soak looking out at the sea. Not to be missed. A beach makes for romantic strolls in the evening. Here you'll be able to unwind after your long trip and still be able to dash across the street if you get late night munchies or whatever.

          Ryuujin Onsen (night 3): One of 3 official "Bijin no Yu" (Springs of Beauties), Ryuujin Onsen is where the Wakayama feudal lord came each year to relax and heal himself -- we will stay in one of the same buildings which he used. With stunning antique shoji screens and beautiful flower arrangements, you'll feel like you're staying overnight in a museum, not just a hotel. The food is fantastic and there are male, female, and kashikiri (private reservation) options right by a beautiful rushing mountain stream.

          Night 4 will be spent in nearby Kawayu Onsen, where the close proximity of the volcanic heat to the surface of the riverbed means that you can actually make your own onsen bath at the edge of the river. Those not up to digging their own bath are welcome to bathe in the hotel's riverside bath or in the male/female baths inside the hotel. A semi-permanent public bath is also nearby. If the timing and weather permit we will be there for the famous "1000 person bath" event, where a giant bath is dug and is lit at night -- a beautiful, special event that only comes once a year.

          Night 5 we will visit Yunomine Onsen, famous as a cleansing and purification stop as one traveled towards Hongu Shrine on the pilgrimage route. Those interested in walking on the ancient road will be able to do a nice day hike or several shorter options. Those not interested in hiking can tour the shrines, relax, or visit the new Kumano Visitors Center, just opened in July 2009. Trips along the Kumano River are also an option, where you'll have a chance to see the stunning gorge and maybe even some mountain goats if you're lucky.

          Night 6 we will travel to Kii-Katsuura and stay by the sea. There we can take a short boat trip to Urashima's famous cave baths, fashioned out of giant caves along the island shores. This town also has an interesting fish market which is the largest in the area, and is famous for its delicious tuna.

          Day 7 will start with a morning visit to Rakuda no Yu, a spectacular rotenburo in an isolated island that requires a 10 minute boat-taxi. Surrounded by nature on all sides, this is truly one of the area's most peaceful and awe-inspiring baths. The boat ride brings you right past some gorgeous rock formations, but nothing beats sitting in a hot bath as you look out at the bird life and salt-stunted pines. It's the perfect end to a great trip and will leave you with a great taste of Japan's best onsen, as well as a lifetime of memories. Once we return from this jewel of a bath we will head to the train station, where we will return to Osaka. Those of you wishing to stay in Japan are welcome to do so -- we would be happy to provide sightseeing suggestions or plan a customized itinerary for you.

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