About Tsukigatani Onsen
A Mountain Hot Spring with a Spiritual Legend
Tsukigatani Onsen is a secluded hot spring retreat with a single main accommodation facility near the upper reaches of the Katsuura River. Its source is a natural cold spring that rises through fissures in the rocks of Mount Tsukigatani, a mountain regarded as sacred.
According to local legend, Kobo Daishi, the Buddhist monk who founded the Shingon school of Buddhism, was undertaking ascetic training in the area when the Medicine Buddha, Yakushi Nyorai, appeared before him. The deity is said to have described the spring as a healing water capable of driving away illness. This story has contributed to the site’s longstanding spiritual associations.
The spring is classified as a simple sulfur cold mineral spring, with a source temperature of approximately 14.5°C. The facility heats the water for bathing, allowing visitors to enjoy the hot spring in a comfortable setting.
A campground is also located nearby, making Tsukigatani Onsen an appealing destination for travelers who want to combine a relaxing soak with outdoor activities and an overnight stay in the mountains.
Access to Tsukigatani Onsen
Tsukigatani Onsen is approximately a 60-minute drive from JR Tokushima Station. The journey leads away from the city and into the green mountain landscapes of Kamikatsu Town, making the hot spring an excellent stop for visitors exploring the rural side of Tokushima Prefecture.
Discover the Natural Beauty of Kamikatsu
Mountains, Rivers, and Forests
Kamikatsu Town lies about an hour by car from Tokushima City and is known for its rich natural environment. The surrounding mountains include Mount Kumohayama, Mount Takashiro, and Mount Takamaru, while the clear Katsuura River flows through the area. Together, these mountains, forests, and waterways create a scenic setting for hot spring visits, hiking, and countryside exploration.
Seasonal Scenery
Each season brings a different atmosphere to Kamikatsu. In spring, plum blossoms, peach blossoms, and wild cherry blossoms brighten the mountainsides. Summer brings vivid green rice terraces and the soothing sound of the Katsuura River flowing through the valley.
In autumn, the forests around Tonokawauchi Gorge and Hyakken Falls become especially attractive as the leaves change color. Winter can be cold in the mountain valleys, making a relaxing visit to Tsukigatani Onsen a welcome way to warm up after exploring the area.
Attractions Around Kamikatsu
Takamaru-yama Millennium Forest
Mount Takamaru, rising to approximately 1,439 meters, is a popular hiking destination. The summit can be reached in about an hour on foot from the parking area, although actual walking times depend on trail conditions and pace.
The area was designated for conservation under Tokushima Prefecture’s Nature Conservation Ordinance in 1977 and is known for its valuable beech forests. The mountain is an excellent choice for visitors interested in forest ecosystems and the natural landscapes of Shikoku.
Mount Yama-inu-dake
Mount Yama-inu-dake is popular for relatively accessible hikes and is particularly famous for its beautiful moss-covered landscape. Within its deciduous native forest, 88 stone Buddhist images are scattered along the mountain, creating a distinctive atmosphere where nature and religious tradition come together.
The moss, trees, and stone figures make the mountain especially appealing to photographers and hikers who enjoy quiet woodland scenery.
Hyakken Falls
Hyakken Falls is a scenic waterfall that contrasts beautifully with the fresh greenery of spring and the vivid colors of autumn. A walking route allows visitors to approach the waterfall, making it an accessible stop for travelers who want to enjoy the area’s natural beauty without undertaking a long hike.
Tonokawauchi Gorge
Tonokawauchi Gorge is known for its clear mountain stream and attractive seasonal scenery. Fresh green foliage brightens the gorge in spring, while autumn brings colorful leaves that reflect against the flowing water.
The area is also associated with stream fishing, making it an appealing destination for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year. Conditions can change with the weather, so visitors should take care near the river and check local access information before setting out.
Jigenji Temple
Jigenji Temple is the inner sanctuary of Kakurinji Temple, the 20th temple on the Shikoku 88-Temple Pilgrimage. Located in the mountains, it is known for its seasonal scenery, including cherry blossoms, azaleas, and autumn foliage.
The temple is also famous for Anazenjo, a cave associated with Buddhist ascetic training. Its secluded location and spiritual traditions make it a memorable destination for visitors interested in the religious heritage of Tokushima.
Kamikatsu’s Innovative Community Initiatives
The Irodori Leaf Business
Kamikatsu is a small mountain town, but it has developed distinctive ways to support its local economy and community. One of its best-known initiatives is the Irodori business, which supplies leaves, flowers, and small branches used as decorative garnishes in Japanese cuisine.
The business makes use of the surrounding natural environment and gives local residents, including many older people, opportunities to earn income. It has attracted attention across Japan as an innovative example of rural economic development.
The Zero Waste Declaration
Kamikatsu is also widely recognized for its Zero Waste initiative. The town announced its Zero Waste Declaration in 2003, setting out an ambitious goal of eliminating waste through careful sorting, recycling, and reuse.
Residents play an active role in protecting the local environment, separating discarded materials into numerous categories and finding ways to reduce the amount sent for disposal. This community-led approach has become an important part of Kamikatsu’s identity.
The 1Q Initiative
The town’s 1Q initiative promotes creative, community-led approaches to local development. Its underlying idea is to use ingenuity to address challenges and make community-building more engaging and enjoyable for residents.
Events such as the 1Q Sports Day bring people together through shared activities, helping strengthen community ties while encouraging new ideas for the town’s future.
Facilities at Tsukigatani Onsen
Hot Springs and Accommodation
Tsukigatani Onsen Tsuki no Yado is the main accommodation facility, where guests can enjoy hot spring bathing while looking out over the Katsuura River. The restaurant serves dishes featuring local ingredients from the mountains and surrounding region, allowing visitors to experience the flavors of Tokushima’s countryside.
The accommodation building was renovated in 2004 and offers modern facilities in a natural setting. With both lodging and camping options available, the resort is suitable for travelers planning a relaxing overnight stay or a longer outdoor getaway.
Bathing Facilities
The bathing facilities include hinoki cypress baths and rock baths. Depending on the bath, visitors can also enjoy features such as bubble baths, jet baths, and a sauna.
The men’s and women’s bathing areas alternate between days, giving guests opportunities to experience different baths depending on when they visit. The riverside setting adds to the relaxing atmosphere, allowing bathers to unwind while enjoying views of the surrounding landscape.
Environmentally Conscious Facilities
Tsukigatani Onsen has worked toward becoming an eco-friendly hotel by introducing a wood-chip boiler. The system uses wood-based fuel to provide energy for hot spring facilities, hot water, and heating.
This approach helps reduce reliance on conventional energy sources and lowers carbon dioxide emissions. It also reflects the broader environmental awareness for which Kamikatsu is known.
Bungalows and Camping
Three bungalows are located beside the main accommodation facility, offering another way to stay close to nature. Each bungalow has a mezzanine-style layout and can accommodate up to six people, making them suitable for families and small groups.
The nearby campground provides an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while remaining close to the hot spring facilities. Combining camping with a soak in the baths is a pleasant way to experience Kamikatsu’s mountain environment.
Relax and Recharge at Tsukigatani Onsen
Surrounded by mountains, forests, and the flowing Katsuura River, Tsukigatani Onsen offers a peaceful retreat from everyday routines. Visitors can relax in the hot spring, enjoy regional cuisine, and explore nearby waterfalls, hiking trails, and historic temples.
Whether you choose a short hot spring visit, an overnight stay at Tsuki no Yado, or a camping trip in the surrounding countryside, Tsukigatani Onsen provides a wonderful opportunity to experience the quieter, nature-rich side of Tokushima Prefecture.