A Hidden Hot Spring Retreat Deep in the Holy Mountains
Nestled at the foot of the sacred Mt. Omine in central Nara Prefecture, Dorogawa Onsen is a hidden gem that offers a tranquil and rejuvenating experience for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its healing hot springs and charming old-town atmosphere, this retreat is a haven for relaxation and spiritual rejuvenation.
How to Get There
To reach Dorogawa Onsen, you can take the Kintetsu Line from Kyoto, Osaka, or Nara and then transfer to a bus at Shimouchiguchi Station. The train ride from Kyoto Station takes approximately an hour and 40 minutes, while it takes about an hour and 25 minutes from Osaka’s Abenohashi Station and 50 minutes from Kintetsu Nara Station. If you are traveling from Kyoto or Osaka, you will need to change trains at Kashihara-jingu-mae, while from Nara, you will have two changes, first at Yamato-Saidaiji and then at Kashihara-jingu-mae. Once you arrive at Shimoichiguchi Station, a bus will take you to Dorogawa Onsen in about an hour.
Mild Hot Springs and a Mellow Evening Atmosphere
The hot springs at Dorogawa originate at the base of Mt. Omine, a sacred mountain that holds significant religious importance. Mt. Omine is a major center of worship for practitioners of Shugendo, an esoteric religion that blends Buddhism, Shinto, and mountain worship. The town’s high elevation and mild hot springs, with a temperature of 26 degrees Celsius, make it an ideal destination for a summer retreat. The healing properties of the hot springs are said to relieve fatigue and promote relaxation. The town’s quaint and well-preserved townscape, lined with traditional inns, restaurants, and souvenir shops, offers a glimpse into its heyday as a popular onsen destination in the post-war era.
In the evening, as the sun sets, the main street of Dorogawa transforms into a magical scene with lanterns lining the way. Taking a leisurely stroll in your yukata robe and sandals, following the locals’ lead, is a delightful way to immerse yourself in the traditional Japanese atmosphere.
A Center for Pilgrimage
Dorogawa Onsen is located in close proximity to Kinpusenji Temple, a renowned temple where Shugendo mountain ascetics gather in August to embark on their spiritual journey up Mt. Omine. During this time, you may have the opportunity to witness the lead priests in their distinctive white robes blowing conch shells, as they lead groups of pilgrims bearing staffs and ringing bells. While the surrounding temples and shrines have lifted the traditional ban on female visitors, Mt. Omine itself remains off-limits to women.
Dorogawa’s Lively Gyoja Festival
If you happen to visit the area in early August, don’t miss the Dorogawa Gyoja Festival, a vibrant celebration that commemorates the legendary return of Shugendo founder En no Gyoja from exile. The festival features processions of masked dancers in summer robes, and you will have the chance to see many Shugendo mountain ascetics in town during this time. It is a unique cultural experience that offers insight into the rich heritage and traditions of the region.
Further Afield
From Dorogawa Onsen, you can embark on a 4.5-kilometer walking trail that leads to the pristine Mitarai Valley and the nearby village of Tenkawa. The Mitarai Valley is a picturesque spot with crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush greenery. It is a perfect place for nature lovers to explore and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. In Tenkawa, you can also visit some superb limestone caves, which are a fascinating natural wonder. Tenkawa itself is a designated World Heritage site, part of the Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range. It is a place of profound spiritual significance and offers a unique insight into japan‘s religious and cultural history.
In conclusion, Dorogawa Onsen is a hidden hot spring retreat that offers a serene and rejuvenating experience in the heart of the holy mountains. Whether you are seeking relaxation, spiritual enrichment, or a chance to immerse yourself in Japan’s rich cultural heritage, this charming town has something to offer. From its healing hot springs and enchanting old-town atmosphere to its proximity to sacred sites and natural wonders, Dorogawa Onsen is a destination that will captivate your senses and leave you with lasting memories. So, why not escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and embark on a journey to this hidden paradise?
Address And Maps Location:
528-1 Dorogawa, Tenkawa-mura, Yoshino-gun, Nara-ken
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