Hot Springs Scattered Across the Southern Slopes of Mount Akagi
The hot spring areas are located on the southern slopes of Mount Akagi, mainly around Gunma Prefectural Route 16, the Ōgo-Akagi Line, at elevations of approximately 700 to 900 meters.
Akagi Onsen and Chūji Onsen are located along the Arato River, while Takizawa Onsen lies along the Kasukawa River. Each is surrounded by beautiful mountain valleys and a rich natural environment.
The wider area is sometimes introduced together with Akagi Kōgen, at an elevation of approximately 430 meters, and the accommodations in these areas are collectively referred to as the “lodgings of the southern foothills of Mount Akagi.”
The region is also a convenient base for hiking and mountain excursions. Visitors can combine a stay at the hot springs with sightseeing around Mount Akagi, with summer offering cool mountain air and winter providing ideal conditions for a traditional hot spring retreat.
The History of Akagi Onsenkyo
Yunosawa Onsen: Records Dating Back to the Edo Period
The exact origins of Akagi Onsenkyo remain uncertain, but written records trace the history of its main hot spring to the Genroku era (1688–1704). At the time, the hot spring was known as Yunosawa Onsen before later taking the name Akagi Onsen.
A letter written in 1689 by Sakai Tadataka, lord of the Maebashi Domain, contains a reference to the hot spring. As more people began visiting, simple bathing facilities were established.
The hot spring also had a close connection with Miyosawa Akagi Shrine. Historical records indicate that the hot spring area was once regarded as part of the shrine’s sacred territory. A deity known as the Hot Spring Myōjin was enshrined there, reflecting the deep connection between the hot springs and the religious traditions surrounding Mount Akagi.
From the Edo Period to the Meiji Era
During the Edo period, the hot spring was associated with visits to Akagi Shrine by people connected with the Maebashi Domain. It is also said that rituals involving the ceremonial collection of hot spring water were once performed.
From the final years of the Edo period into the Meiji era, inns and restaurants increased in number. Records from 1877 indicate that the area had approximately 85 inns and welcomed around 2,500 visitors per year.
Later, Chūji Onsen and Takizawa Onsen were developed, gradually expanding the area into the hot spring resort known today as Akagi Onsenkyo. Chūji Onsen, in particular, was established in 1939 and is associated with the legendary outlaw and folk hero Kunisada Chūji.
The Character of Each Hot Spring
Akagi Onsen
Akagi Onsen is the historic heart of the resort, with roots in the former Yunosawa Onsen of the Edo period. Located at an elevation of approximately 850 meters along the Arato River, it is now home to several small, quietly operated inns.
The hot spring water rises from a source approximately 180 meters underground, producing around 210 liters per minute. The source temperature is approximately 44°C.
One of its most distinctive characteristics is the color of the water. It emerges from the source almost clear, but exposure to air causes oxidation, gradually turning it from a yellowish-green color to a reddish-brown cloudy bath.
The spring is classified as a calcium-sodium-magnesium bicarbonate spring and was historically known as an “iron mineral spring.” It has traditionally been used as a therapeutic bath for conditions such as digestive disorders, neuralgia, rheumatism, and high blood pressure.
Chūji Onsen
Chūji Onsen is located approximately 2 kilometers downstream from Akagi Onsen, at an elevation of around 700 meters.
The hot spring enjoys a scenic setting overlooking Asahi Falls on the Arato River. Its water has a temperature of approximately 38°C and, like Akagi Onsen, is a bicarbonate spring.
The water contains naturally occurring carbon dioxide and gently warms the body. The name is traditionally associated with Kunisada Chūji, who is said to have sought refuge in this area.
Takizawa Onsen
Takizawa Onsen is a historic hot spring established in 1895 and located along the Kasukawa River.
Its characteristic reddish-brown cloudy water contains carbon dioxide and is known for creating a pleasantly warming bathing experience. The secluded mountain setting gives the accommodation here the atmosphere of a traditional hidden hot spring retreat.
The natural surroundings are particularly suited to quiet relaxation and traditional tōji, or hot spring therapy. Visitors can also appreciate the power of the naturally emerging spring water in this remote mountain environment.
Akagi Kōgen
Akagi Kōgen is located at an elevation of approximately 430 meters along National Route 353. It serves as one of the gateways to Mount Akagi and offers accommodation and other facilities that make it a convenient base for sightseeing in the area.
Enjoying the Hot Springs in Every Season
One of the greatest attractions of Akagi Onsenkyo is its spectacular natural setting at the foot of Mount Akagi.
Fresh green foliage in spring, cool streams and deep greenery in summer, brilliant autumn leaves, and snowy winter landscapes each create a completely different atmosphere around the hot springs.
Local cuisine is another highlight. Meals often make use of the natural bounty of the mountains, including wild mountain vegetables and freshwater fish. Their simple, traditional flavors complement a stay in this peaceful mountain retreat.
A Base for Hiking and Sightseeing
Akagi Onsenkyo is also used as a base for climbing Mount Akagi, one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains.
After spending time hiking through the mountain landscape, relaxing in a warm outdoor bath is an especially rewarding experience. Nearby attractions include Akagi Shrine and various natural parks, allowing visitors to combine hot spring bathing with sightseeing and outdoor activities.
A Quiet Mountain Retreat for Rest and Renewal
Unlike large-scale hot spring resorts filled with numerous hotels and entertainment facilities, Akagi Onsenkyo is characterized by its small inns scattered through a peaceful mountain environment.
Soaking in a hot spring while listening to the sounds of the surrounding forest and streams offers a simple but memorable way to escape the noise of everyday life.
With its long history, traditional legends, natural hot spring waters, and warm hospitality, Akagi Onsenkyo provides an authentic mountain hot spring experience. Surrounded by the forests and peaks of Mount Akagi, it is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat and a chance to experience the traditional culture of Japanese hot springs.