Winter in Iwate Prefecture is especially wonderful at a hot spring, and one would be hard-pressed to find a better place to enjoy the snow than at Matsukawa Onsen and its three ryokan traditional Japanese inns. Seen here is the mixed-bathing outdoor bath at Kyounso, a fabulous little inn that is worthy of a stay anytime.
Photo: The mixed-bathing outdoor bath at Kyounso inn at Matsukawa Onsen is toasty even in Iwate Prefecture’s frigid winter temperatures.
Matsukawa Onsen: Kyounso inn
Onsen Adventures recommends booking a room in the newest wing as it is a superb example of the traditional ryokan style with a modern flourish.
Highlights of a stay at Kyounso include sitting in a rocking chair next to the irori sunken hearth in the lobby while gazing at Mt. Iwate, the tallest peak in the prefecture and, of course, relaxing in this bath during one of the heavy snowfalls that come with winter. Lounging away the day is rarely this enjoyable. ♨
