Onsen in Kumano

The Kumano region of Wakayama in the Kansai area of western Japan is famous for its excellent onsen hot spring baths.

Kawayu Onsen is one such hot spring where visitors can simply dig their own hot spring bath in the gravel on the bank of the Oto River.

The so-called Sennin-buro bath is open from December through February from 6.30-10pm and is a large free bath marked off during the winter months.

Shirahama Onsen on the west coast of the Kii Peninsula is a popular onsen resort with hot springs going right down to the sea.

Atashika Onsen and Yunomine Onsen are other popular hot spas in the Kumano area.