About
Nestled within the rugged embrace of the Azuma mountain range, at an elevation of 1,300 meters, lies a sanctuary where time seems to pause, and nature's raw beauty unfolds in its purest form. Here, the air is crisp, carrying whispers of ancient tales through the dense forests of Japanese hemlock, beech, and birch. The landscape is a dramatic canvas of towering cliffs and peculiar rock formations—Lion Rock, White Elephant Rock, and Tiger Rock—each standing as silent sentinels to the passage of centuries.
In this secluded haven, a single inn stands as a testament to human resilience and harmony with nature. Established in 1533 by Endo Oikura, a prospector who stumbled upon this geothermal wonder, the inn has been stewarded by seventeen generations of the Endo family. Legend speaks of a mountain crone, or 'yamauba,' who appeared to Endo, offering the healing waters in exchange for his guardianship—a pact that has been honored through the ages.
The hot springs here are a gift from the earth, with six natural outlets spewing forth mineral-rich waters. The inn channels one of these sources, allowing the rest to cascade freely into the river below. The baths, both indoor and open-air, are filled with milky, sulfurous waters that soothe the body and spirit. The open-air baths, in particular, offer an immersive experience; as you soak, the symphony of the river's flow and the melodies of forest birds envelop you, while the imposing cliffs loom overhead, their rugged faces etched with time's passage.
Each season paints the surroundings with a unique palette. Spring brings a tender green, as new leaves unfurl and the forest awakens. Summer offers a cool respite from the lowland heat, with the dense canopy providing shade and serenity. Autumn transforms the landscape into a fiery spectacle of reds, oranges, and golds, as the foliage prepares for winter's embrace. And though the inn closes during the heavy snows, the memory of its warmth lingers, promising return visits as soon as the paths are clear.
The journey to this retreat is an adventure in itself. From the nearest station, a winding mountain road leads you through a tapestry of natural wonders. The final stretch requires a short walk, allowing the anticipation to build with each step. As you approach, the scent of sulfur mingles with the fresh mountain air, a prelude to the rejuvenation that awaits.
In the evenings, traditional meals crafted from local ingredients are served, each dish a reflection of the region's bounty. After dining, guests often return to the baths, where, under a canopy of stars, the waters seem to dissolve the boundaries between self and nature.
This place is more than a destination; it's a passage into a world where nature's grandeur and human tradition intertwine seamlessly. It's a reminder of the healing power of the earth and the stories that flow like the waters, from one generation to the next.