Rurikei Onsen in Nantan: Day-Use Hot Spring Prices

Rising on a highland of about 500 meters in Nantan, Rurikei Onsen is a radioactive spring boasting one of the highest radon contents in the country. The Rurikei gorge nearby is known for waterfalls and oddly shaped rocks woven together with seasonal trees, so you can enjoy bathing and nature walks together. In the fresh highland air, both mind and body unwind. Beyond the spring, with a swimsuit bathing area and illumination, it is a complex where you can play all day.

Highlights

• A radioactive spring with one of the richest radon contents in Japan
• A fine radon spring that is clear, tasteless and odorless
• A gorge path with the falls and rocks known as the twelve views of Rurikei
• Stay facilities offering an open air bath, a swimsuit area and illumination

Enjoying the Seasons

Spring brings fresh greenery, summer a cool highland breeze, and autumn fiery foliage, so the gorge changes its look with each season. In winter the snowscape and illumination feel dreamlike, and the chilled air feels pleasant against a warmed body. Even in summer the highland is cooler than the city and perfect for escaping the heat. Spending a full day on the baths and a gorge walk is recommended.

Access and Basic Information

• About 20 minutes by car from the Sonobe interchange on the Kyoto Jukan Expressway
• About 30 minutes by free shuttle bus from JR Sonobe Station on the Sagano line, worth confirming
• The spring is a simple radioactive type containing radon, clear, tasteless and odorless
• The bathing area is open from morning into the night, with day use available
• Day bathing with the swimsuit area is around 800 yen for adults on weekdays and 950 yen on weekends and holidays, with the stone sauna charged separately

Practical Travel Notes

• With a spring, a swimsuit bathing area, a stone sauna and gorge walks, there is plenty to fill half a day to a full day, so set aside ample time.
• Wear comfortable shoes for the gorge trail. The twelve views of Rurikei, with their falls and strange rocks, stretch about four kilometers for a full taste of nature.
• Car access is convenient, but a free shuttle bus also runs from Sonobe Station. Confirm the timetable and whether reservations are needed in advance.
• The winter illumination is dreamlike and popular, and it can grow crowded after dusk. For a relaxed soak, the daytime hours are best.
• The highland is cooler than the city, so a layer is reassuring even in summer.

A Quick Tip

Beyond the baths, the site has plenty to fill a whole day, from gorge trail walks to illumination. The swimsuit area and stone sauna may be charged separately, so choose a plan to suit your aim. Come in comfortable walking shoes to fully take in the scenery. The highland is cooler than the city, so a layer is reassuring even in summer.