Oigami Onsen

Small hot spring village along the Katashina River east of Numata, with 13 inns spread across steep hills on both sides of the water. According to legend, the springs were discovered when a wounded snake deity, avatar of the god of nearby Mt. Akagi, pulled out an arrow and thrust it into the ground, causing hot water to burst forth and heal its wounds. That deity is now enshrined at Akagi Shrine above the village. The 13 inns serve communal baths and meals of local freshwater fish and seasonal vegetables. The Nairaku Bridge, a bright red suspension bridge over the river, offers a good view of the valley and surrounding landscape.