Takaragawa Onsen

One of Japan's most spectacular rotenburo (open-air baths), set along the Takara River deep in the mountains of Gunma prefecture. Four massive riverside rock pools hold naturally heated spring water, surrounded by dense forest that transforms with each season, cherry blossoms in spring, lush green in summer, fiery maples in autumn, and snow-laden branches in winter. The remote mountain setting and generous bath sizes create an atmosphere of genuine wilderness bathing.