Watarase Onsen is a large, relatively new onsen, restaurant, and hotel complex on the site of Watase Onsen spring. While it lacks the authenticity of some of the nearby onsen (which have been around for centuries), Watarase Onsen offers bathers some treats that should not be overlooked. Its expansive 6-bath rotenburo system is said to be large enough for 1000 people to bathe, though you'll likely feel like you have plenty of room even if there's only 100. Better yet, Watarase Onsen is one of the few places to offer higaeri (day use) kashikiriburo (private, reservable) rotenburo (outdoor baths), and they are quite large, each with its own pine tree and tiny garden. For couples or families, these kashikiriburo are a great way to get away from it all.
Like most spots in rural Wakayama, Watarase Onsen is accessible by bus or car...or pilgrimage road, if you're hiking by foot. It's located close to Yunomine Onsen near Hongu Taisha. Day trippers can also enjoy a meal here; overnights are possible in the adjoining hotel.
33.818546, 135.766541
