Ishidan no Yu Onsen - A Tattoo-Friendly Hot Spring in Ikaho Onsen, Gunma

Ishidan no Yu (石段の湯) stands as a living monument to Japan's bathing heritage, nestled among the 365 ancient stone steps of Ikaho Onsen in Gunma Prefecture. This historic public bath captures the essence of traditional Japanese onsen culture with its iron-rich "golden waters" (Kogane no Yu) that oxidize to a captivating reddish-brown hue when exposed to air. Dating back over 400 years, this unpretentious bathhouse offers travelers an authentic glimpse into the bathing rituals that have nourished Japanese culture since the Edo period.

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For tattooed visitors seeking to experience Japan's onsen tradition, Ishidan no Yu represents both challenge and opportunity—a microcosm of the evolving relationship between traditional Japanese bathing culture and international tourism in 2025.

• Authentic Historical Immersion: Bathe in waters flowing along the same path enjoyed by travelers for centuries, surrounded by stone architecture that whispers tales of samurai and merchants who once sought healing here
• Therapeutic "Golden Waters": Experience the unique iron-rich waters that transform from clear to rusty gold through natural oxidation—known to improve circulation and ease muscle fatigue
• Accessible Cultural Experience: At just ¥410 for adults, this day-use facility offers one of Japan's most affordable authentic onsen experiences
• Perfect Starting Point: Centrally located on Ikaho's stone stairway, making it ideal for exploring nearby attractions including the Kajika Bridge and sampling the region's famous Mizusawa udon
• Local Authenticity: Experience an onsen frequented by Japanese visitors rather than international tourists, offering a genuine glimpse into everyday Japanese bathing culture

Stepping into Ishidan no Yu feels like traveling through time. The indoor stone baths—segregated by gender as is traditional in Japan—contain the region's famous Kogane no Yu waters, which emerge colorless from the source but transform to a mesmerizing amber-brown as the iron content oxidizes upon contact with air.

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The mineral composition, rich in sulfates and iron, creates a silky bathing experience that leaves your skin noticeably smoother. Maintained at approximately 42°C (107.6°F), these therapeutic waters work wonders for circulation issues, joint discomfort, and skin conditions while the neutral pH (6.4) ensures a gentle experience even for sensitive skin. As you soak, you'll find your muscles relaxing and tensions melting away—the same restorative effect sought by Japanese visitors for centuries.

🚆 From Tokyo → 🚄 Shinkansen to Takasaki (75 min) → 🚈 JR Joetsu Line to Shibukawa Station (30 min) → 🚌 Bus to Ikaho Onsen (25 min) → 🚶 5 min walk to stone steps

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🚗 By Car → Kan-Etsu Expressway → Shibukawa-Ikaho IC → 20 min drive to Ikaho Onsen parking area

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🚌 From Shibukawa Station → Route Bus bound for Ikaho Onsen → Alight at "Ikaho Onsen" → 🚶 5 min walk to stone steps

No advance reservations are required for this day-use public bath, though visitors with tattoos may wish to call ahead to inquire about current policies or quiet periods when the bath might be less crowded.

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📞 Phone: +81-279-72-4526

📍 Address: 36 Ikaho, Ikahomachi, Shibukawa, Gunma Prefecture 377-0102

⏰ Hours: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM (closed 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of each month)