Dogawa Onsen

Overview

Dogawa Onsen is a hot spring resort in Tenkawa Village, Yoshino District, Nara Prefecture, renowned as the gateway to Mount Omine. Mount Omine has long been a sacred site for Shugendo, and Dogawa Onsen thrived as a post town for ascetics and pilgrims. The hot spring town features traditional wooden buildings, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. Simply strolling through the town offers a glimpse into its rich history. Mount Omine boasts numerous waterfalls and gorges, providing opportunities to appreciate its abundant natural beauty. The Mitarai Gorge, in particular, is a breathtaking spectacle with various sized waterfalls, massive rocks, and crystal-clear streams. Dogawa Onsen is bustling with tourists in summer as a cool retreat and in autumn as a stunning autumn foliage destination. You might even catch a glimpse of Shugendo practitioners training on Mount Omine in the summer. In autumn, the mountains are ablaze with red and yellow leaves, offering a vibrant display. Near the hot spring town are the Tenkawa Village Museum, showcasing the history and culture of Tenkawa Village, and the Sanjo-ga-take History Museum, displaying valuable materials unearthed during the dismantling and repair of the Daio-bo Hall of Mount Omine Temple—significant artifacts from the history of mountain religions. Dogawa Onsen offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. Visit Dogawa Onsen to experience the rich nature and history of Mount Omine.