Kintaichi Onsen, Natural hot spring in Ninohe, Japan
Kintaichi Onsen is a thermal spring resort fed by alkaline mineral sources along the Mabechi River in northern Iwate Prefecture. The complex includes nine traditional inns, public bathhouses, a swimming pool, and day-use facilities.
The spring was established in 1626 as an official healing bath for samurai of the Nambu clan during the feudal period. This connection to that era shaped its reputation and structure over centuries.
The town revolves around the traditional inns that shape daily life and visitor experience year-round. You notice this bathing culture woven into how locals and guests move through the riverside valley.
The facility operates daily from 6:00 to 22:00 and welcomes both overnight guests and day visitors. You can use the public bathhouses, swimming pool, or access the inns depending on your time availability.
The mineral water emerges naturally from rice paddies in the surrounding area, which gave the site its former name Yuda Onsen meaning hot spring from the fields. This geological characteristic sets it apart from similar facilities elsewhere.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
