basic information

Ikaho's main attraction, besides its uniquely colored baths, is the stone steps (ishidan gai) which progress upwards through the center of this mountain town for about 300 meters. The steps have been reconstructed in recent years, but original examples of the stone work are still visible near Ishidan no yu, a public bath.

At the bottom of the steps is a former checkpoint for travelers one of the old foot roads that connected the towns and cities of pre-modern Japan. The building now houses a small museum. Ikaho Shrine is located at the top of the steps.

Ikaho Shrine

Ikaho's stone steps (ishidan gai)

As the center of town, the stone steps are the main thoroughfare for visitors seeking restaurants, ryokan, gifts (omiyage), or arcade game shops. These shops offer old arcade style games with various prizes for about 300 to 500 yen. Games such as ring toss, or "target shooting" are popular examples.

Past the top of the steps and towards the public outdoor bath is Kajika Bridge, offering an impressive view of the leaves in autumn. Here, the deep brown colored hot spring water is also visible as it flows under the bridge. The iron rich water can be tasted at a small drinking fountain on the side of the road.

Arcade game shop

Kajika Bridge

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how to get there

The attractions around Ikaho town center can all be reached on foot. The stone steps are approximately 300 meters in length and have handrails in place for those who require a bit of assistance. At the top of the steps, a road veers to the right leading to Kajika Bridge, about 250 meters away. Further along the same road, the Ikaho Rotemburo is another 300 meters past Kajika Bridge.

How to get to and around Ikaho Onsen

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