Kaikake Onsen

Kaikake Onsen is found within the borders of the Joshinetsu Kogen National Park, deep within Yuzawa and surrounded by forest. There are no shops or convenience stores anywhere close by. It is a truly secluded onsen that requires you to go out into the mountains, and cross a narrow bridge that can only just fit the width of a car. This is an unusual onsen experience where you can enjoy bathing deep in nature in waters that are believed to be beneficial for your eyes.

Kaikake Onsen is located out in the mountains so it has to coexist with nature. To this end it has to be kind to the natural environment, as well as carrying out different measures to look after the forests and the rural landscape.
Due to its location, no herbicides are used. This avoids chemicals entering into the river and protects the environment and the ecosystem. With regards to waste, the garbage cans in the facility are for different kinds of trash, and the guests are encouraged to separate their garbage as they throw it away. The heat from the onsen is used for floor heating to conserve energy. Taking advantage of its position in the mountains, the cool natural breeze is the only cooling used in warmer months and is sufficient for a comfortable temperature. Water monitoring is carried out daily to ensure that the water quality is of an acceptable level. There is also a system that allows some waste water to be reused.
There is a full complement of activities that allow guests to experience nature throughout the year. For example there is a workshop on foraging for mountain plants, or snowshoeing trekking in the forest.

Kaikake Onsen is a hot spring site with a long history, and the ryokan there is made of wood. The main building was built in the second year of the Meiji era (1869) and throughout the whole building you can enjoy the warm feeling of being surrounded by timber. The historical ambience of the building is enhanced by the abundance of items and photos related to Kaikake Onsen that are displayed throughout the interior. You can also find many retro items and furniture that are typical of the Yukiguni region as you stroll the corridors.
The cuisine is typical countryside fare, with rice from a specially selected farmer in Minami Uonuma, and other seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby producers. There are also many local sakes from Niigata available, so even though you are in a remote location in the mountains you can enjoy a great meal full of the bounty from the nature of the region.
At Kaikake Onsen it is still possible to experience a traditional long stay to take the water for your health in order to recover and recuperate. Even today there are many guests here who come to enjoy this cure with many staying ten nights or more.
Eighty percent of staff come from the local area.