Overview
Nakagawa Onsen is a hot-spring resort in Nakagawa, Yamakita Town, Ashigarakami District, Kanagawa Prefecture. Nestled in the folds of the Tanzawa Mountains along the clear Nakagawa stream, its inns are scattered through a valley that feels deeply secluded despite being relatively close to the metropolis. Its soft-feeling waters are cherished as a 「beauty bath」, and together with the valley greenery and the murmur of the river, it gently eases everyday fatigue, carrying the air of a grown-up's hidden hot spring.
Highlights
- ●The soft-feeling waters of Nakagawa Onsen, cherished as a 「beauty bath」
- ●Valley scenery where inns are scattered along the clear Nakagawa stream in the folds of Tanzawa
- ●The air of a hidden hot spring, wrapped in deep mountain stillness yet relatively near the city
- ●A location close to Lake Tanzawa and mountain trails, pairing hot springs with nature walks
History
Nakagawa Onsen wells up in Nakagawa, Yamakita Town, Ashigarakami District, which in old provincial terms belonged to Sagami Province. Cradled by the Tanzawa mountains, it has long been used as a hot spring of the mountain village. Because the facts on hand hold no firm record of its founding year or the origins of the spring, please confirm these with each ryokan or the area's official tourism information. It is a quiet resort that has walked alongside the nature of Tanzawa.
Access
The resort lies in Nakagawa, Yamakita Town, Ashigarakami District (around 35.44N, 139.05E), on the western side of the Tanzawa Mountains. From the metropolitan direction, it is usually reached by bus or car starting from stations such as Yamakita on the JR Gotemba Line. As it is a mountain-valley resort with winding roads, check bus frequency, travel time, and whether the inn offers pickup with the ryokan or official information beforehand.
Best season
Early summer, when the fresh greenery dazzles, through autumn, when the slopes of Tanzawa turn color, is especially recommended, letting you fully enjoy the pairing of valley scenery and hot springs. The cherry blossoms and budding of spring and the snow-dusted winter each have their own charm. As this is mountainous country, mornings and evenings can be chilly, so bringing an extra layer keeps you comfortable.
Map
35.4422, 139.0489 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Head to Nakagawa Onsen in Tanzawa by bus or car from stations such as Yamakita on the JR Gotemba Line
- 2Check in at your inn and first ease the fatigue of travel in the 「beauty bath」
- 3The next day, stroll along nearby Lake Tanzawa or the valley to take in the mountain and river scenery
- 4Soak in the spring once more, then set off home with the stillness of the mountain village lingering
Did you know?
💡 Nakagawa Onsen is known as a 「beauty bath」 for the softness of its water. Nearby spread the scenery of Lake Tanzawa and its dam reservoir, and the area is used as a base for hiking and mountain climbing, making it a place well suited to combining hot springs with nature walks. Its appeal lies in the atmosphere of a secret hot spring so close to the city.
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