Ikaho Insensho (Hot Spring Drinking Station)

Overview & Charm

Ikaho Insensho is a unique facility in Ikaho Onsen, Gunma Prefecture, where you can directly drink the hot spring source water. Ikaho Onsen has a prestigious history; in the early Meiji era, it received medical guidance for hot spring therapy from Dr. Berthelot, often called the 'Father of Japanese Hot Spring Medicine.' At this facility, anyone can easily experience the taste of the 'Golden Spring Water,' the iconic symbol of Ikaho.

Historical & Cultural Background

The history of Ikaho Onsen is profound, with its medicinal value recognized for centuries. The drinking station is strategically located on the path from Ikaho Shrine toward the Ikaho open-air baths, serving as a place to feel the blessings of the spring intimately. The culture of incorporating mineral-rich spring water into one's body is deeply rooted in local tradition and continues to be passed down today.

Main Highlights

Here, you can taste the famous 'Golden Spring Water' directly. The station is located near a Suikinkutsu (water zither), allowing you to feel the blessings of nature alongside the beautiful, resonant sounds of water. Additionally, the surrounding area is dotted with historical sites such as Haruna Shrine and Mizusawa Kannon, allowing you to trace the history of the region alongside its hot spring culture.

Seasonal & Time-of-Day Recommendations

As the drinking station is located in an outdoor environment, there are seasonal temperature variations. When consuming the hot spring water, it is common practice to do so within a comfortable range according to your physical condition and the surrounding temperature. Visiting as part of a daytime stroll allows you to enjoy the scenery of the hot spring town simultaneously.

Experience & Activities

This is a place to experience the ritual of drinking hot spring water. However, there are certain rules and guidelines for drinking. Generally, it is suggested to consume about 100ml to 200ml per session, with a total daily limit of 200ml to 1000ml. It is considered most appropriate to drink 30 minutes to 1 hour before a meal, and it is recommended to be mindful of how you spend your time after consumption.

Surrounding Area

The drinking station is situated directly on the main sightseeing route of Ikaho. Nearby, you will find Ikaho Shrine, the famous 365-step stone staircase, and the Suikinkutsu. The area also features cultural institutions such as the Takuhisa Yumeji Memorial Museum and the Hosaka Museum, offering a chance to engage with local culture alongside the hot springs.

Items to Bring, Clothing & Etiquette

Please observe the following points when drinking the spring water:

• Taking the hot spring water home for drinking purposes is strictly prohibited.
• Avoid consuming tea, coffee, or other beverages immediately after drinking the spring water.
• It is advisable to avoid drinking it after dinner or right before bedtime.
• If practicing hot spring therapy, it should be done under medical guidance.
• While having a clean container or PET bottle is convenient, taking the water away from the site is prohibited.
• While the drinking itself is free, nearby facilities may require cash or card for other services.