Gunma: Kiryu and Akagi area — Shibukawa onsen Ikaho stone steps

The Ikaho Onsen Stone Steps (伊香保温泉石段街, Ikaho Onsen Ishidan-gai) are one of the most famous landmarks in Ikaho, a historic hot spring town located in Shibukawa City in Gunma Prefecture, Japan. This iconic site is renowned for its picturesque stone staircase, which leads visitors through the heart of the town and offers a unique glimpse into the rich cultural and natural heritage of the region. The Stone Steps are central to the experience of visiting Ikaho Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest and most beloved hot spring resorts.

 

この投稿をInstagramで見る

 

パセリすぴーど(@parsley.speed)がシェアした投稿

1. Overview

• Name: Ikaho Onsen Stone Steps (伊香保温泉石段街)
• Location: Ikaho Onsen, Shibukawa City, Gunma Prefecture, Japan
• Main Feature: A long set of 365 stone steps, which climb a hill leading up to the hot spring area of Ikaho.
• Type: Historic site, cultural landmark, tourist attraction

2. Historical Background

Ikaho Onsen has been a popular hot spring destination for centuries, with its roots dating back to the 6th century. The Ikaho Onsen Stone Steps have been a central feature of the town since the early Edo period (1603–1868), when the town began to develop as a famous hot spring resort. The steps were originally constructed to provide easy access for visitors to the upper hot spring baths and the town’s shrine.

• The 365 stone steps symbolize the 365 days of the year, and they are designed to guide visitors through the town while offering them a scenic and immersive experience of Ikaho’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
• Over time, the steps became a symbol of the town and its historic onsen culture, and they continue to be a central point of attraction for visitors, both local and international.

 

この投稿をInstagramで見る

 

モチゾー(@mochizoo1220)がシェアした投稿

3. The Stone Steps: Features and Layout

• The stone steps are divided into two sections: the lower stone steps and the upper stone steps. The entire staircase is about 300 meters long, with 365 individual stone steps made from local granite.
• The staircase is lined with traditional Japanese inns (ryokan), shops, and restaurants, many of which have been operating for generations and offer visitors an authentic taste of Ikaho’s hot spring culture.
• At the top of the steps, you’ll find the Ikaho Shrine, a small, picturesque shrine that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. This shrine is an important spiritual site for the town and adds a sense of reverence to the climb.
• The steps are often bathed in light at night, creating a magical atmosphere as they wind through the town.

 

この投稿をInstagramで見る

 

ひろしし(@nekoyajiryu)がシェアした投稿

4. Ikaho Onsen’s Famous “Golden” and “Silver” Waters

• Ikaho Onsen is unique for having two distinct types of hot spring waters: the “golden” water (kin no yu) and the “silver” water (gin no yu).
• The golden water comes from iron-rich springs and has a characteristic brownish color. It is said to be good for joint pain and skin ailments.
• The silver water is clear and is believed to be beneficial for relaxation and beauty treatments. The two types of water are a highlight of the town’s baths, and the journey through the stone steps gives visitors easy access to both types of springs.

 

この投稿をInstagramで見る

 

パセリすぴーど(@parsley.speed)がシェアした投稿

5. Cultural and Scenic Highlights

As you ascend or descend the stone steps, you’ll encounter several cultural and scenic attractions:

• Shops and Stalls: Along the stone steps, there are many traditional shops selling local specialties, such as sweets (including Ikaho manju, a local steamed bun), souvenirs, and handicrafts. You’ll also find restaurants serving local delicacies, including soba noodles and hot spring eggs (a local treat, boiled in the hot springs).
• Historical Sites: The area around the Stone Steps is home to various historic ryokan (Japanese inns) and hot spring baths. Some of these inns date back several centuries, offering visitors a taste of Japan’s traditional hospitality.
• Ikaho Shrine: The shrine at the top of the steps offers a quiet, serene atmosphere and beautiful views over the town and the surrounding mountains. It’s a popular spot for visitors to stop, take photos, and enjoy the view.
• Viewpoints: As you climb the steps, the views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and Ikaho Onsen town become more panoramic, making the journey itself an aesthetically pleasing and relaxing experience.

 

この投稿をInstagramで見る

 

Piconsoda(@piconsoda)がシェアした投稿

6. The Ikaho Onsen “Ishidan” (Stone Step) Festival

• The Ikaho Onsen Ishidan Festival is held annually, celebrating the history of the stone steps and the town’s hot springs. During the festival, the steps are adorned with lanterns, and various performances and traditional activities are held, including Taiko drum performances and tea ceremonies.
• The festival creates a festive, community atmosphere and is a highlight of the year for both locals and tourists.

7. Ikaho Onsen and Its Attractions

• In addition to the Stone Steps, Ikaho Onsen offers several attractions that make it a popular destination:
  • Ikaho Onsen Public Bathhouse: A large public bathhouse near the Stone Steps that allows visitors to experience the hot spring waters. The bathhouse features both indoor and outdoor baths with views of the town.
  • Ikaho Green Bokujo: A nearby farm and amusement park that’s perfect for families, offering animal interactions and stunning views of the surrounding nature.
  • Lake Haruna: A scenic lake located just outside of Ikaho, offering boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities, especially during the autumn months when the foliage is at its peak.
  • Hot Spring Eggs: One of the most famous local specialties of Ikaho is its hot spring eggs, which are boiled in the naturally hot springs of the town. These eggs have a unique flavor and are sold in various places around the Stone Steps.

8. Visitor Information

• Access: Ikaho Onsen is easily accessible from Shibukawa Station (about 20 minutes by bus) or Ikaho Station (for those traveling by car). From Ikaho Station, you can walk up to the Stone Steps and the hot spring baths.
• Admission: There’s no admission fee to walk up the Stone Steps, as it is a public area. However, some of the shops, inns, and baths may charge fees for entry or services.
• Best Time to Visit: The Stone Steps are popular year-round, but they are especially beautiful during the autumn foliage season, when the surrounding mountains are painted with vibrant colors. The winter months, with their crisp air and snow-capped surroundings, offer a tranquil and picturesque experience.

9. Summary

The Ikaho Onsen Stone Steps are an iconic symbol of Ikaho, offering a scenic and cultural journey through one of Japan’s most historic hot spring towns. With its 365 steps, beautiful natural surroundings, traditional inns, and rich cultural history, the Stone Steps provide visitors with both a visual and emotional experience, making it a must-see when visiting Ikaho Onsen. Whether you are climbing the steps to visit the historic Ikaho Shrine, soaking in the famous golden hot springs, or simply enjoying the local shops and restaurants, the Stone Steps offer a peaceful yet memorable experience that connects you to Japan’s past and its enduring hot spring culture.