Japan’s Unique Waterfall Onsen: A Guide to Amagiso Odaru Onsen
Japan boasts over 3,000 hot springs, yet only a handful offer you the rare privilege of soaking alongside magical waterfalls. Let alone a mineral hot spring under the 30m Odaru Waterfall that you can also swim in!
What makes Amagiso Odaru Onsen the best waterfall onsen Japan has to offer is that you get all that and more, only a few hours from Tokyo.
Just imagine hopping between 8 varied temperature open-air baths along the river you can take a quick cold plunge into before a dip in the hot spring lap pool, maybe even down to the mysterious cave baths too. And if you’d already seen my viral reel, you’d know that it is also tattoo-friendly!
This unique mixed-gender onsen may be part of the Amagiso Hotel complex, but it will make you feel like you have been transported into a fairytale. Well, that is as long as you pay attention to these very important tips I have gathered for you to make the most of your experience.
What is Amagiso Odaru Onsen?
Amagiso Odaru Onsen is a traditional Japanese hot spring ryokan with a modern flair opening its unique waterfall onsen to the public. Blowing Yuen Shinjuku off the podium for best tattoo-friendly onsen in Japan (although still a great Tokyo stay worth checking out).
Find yourself in the lush forest of the Izu Peninsula, at the bottom of the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls trail. Odaru Falls is the biggest of them all at 30m, making the perfect backdrop for soaking and swimming.
Because it is mixed-gender onsen, you do need to keep your swimsuit ON! Don’t worry, there are separate MALE/FEMALE changing rooms.
Where is this waterfall onsen in Japan?
If you are looking for where the ‘unique waterfall onsen Japan’ is, you will find it at Amagiso Odaru Onsen!
But where is that? This hot spring retreat is hidden away in the Izu Peninsula along the Kawazu Seven Waterfall Trails. Search for Odaru Falls on your map!
While it is part of the Amagiso Hotel, it stands alone as a separate facility.
How to get to the Unique Waterfall Onsen Japan?
When I say it is hidden in the Izu Peninsula, I do mean it. You see, it isn’t the most accessible onsen in Japan. (Although that is why I love it)
Its nearest major town Kawazu is famous for, and frankly, overrun by tourists in, cherry blossom season.
đźš„Taking the TRAIN to Kawazu from Tokyo
JR Tokaido Line “Odoriko” Limited Express (Most Popular)
Tokyo Station → Kawazu Station
Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on stops
Cost: ÂĄ3,000-4,500 / $35-$40
Shinkansen + Local Train Combination (Fastest)
Tokyo Station → Atami Station (Tokaido Shinkansen) → Ito Station → Kawazu Station
Total Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Shinkansen Cost: ÂĄ4,000-5,500 / $40 – $55 (Tokyo to Atami)
Local Train Cost: ÂĄ650 (Atami to Kawazu via Ito)
These routes are covered under the JAPAN RAIL PASS (JR PASS)
Klook.com🚏Taking the LOCAL BUS to Amagiso Odaru Onsen
Take the Local Tokai Bus from Kawazu Station to Oo-daru Iriguchi bus stop. It’ll take approx 35mins.
The bus route to look out for is either the one bound for Kawazu Nanadaru or Shuzenji Station.
đźš• Renting a Car to Amagiso Odaru Onsen
As mini road trip connoisseurs, we opted to hire a car for our time in the Izu Peninsula. And it was one of the best things we have ever done in Japan! Seriously, if there is one place worth renting a car in Japan, it is to come here!
There are an abundance of car rental places in Japan. I recommend taking a train out of the major cities to cut down on cost, stress and time.
For Example: we took the train to Mishima and picked up our rental car from NIPPON RENT-A-CAR via Klook just across from the station. From there it was a simple 1hr drive to Kawazu Seven Falls.
Odaru Onsen Opening Times
Amagiso Odaru Onsen Day pass access is open between:
10 am and 4 pm Thursday to Tuesday (CLOSED ON WEDNESDAYS)
They do limit the number of people in the onsens at one time. During peak time, you may have to wait.
It is worth noting that the information online is a little confusing about its seasonal opening times. From my understanding, the Odaru Onsen may close during the winter months (September-April).
Given the renovation status, I recommend contacting Amagiso directly and checking their website for the most current information.
Buying Tickets for Amagiso Odaru Onsen
You can NOT pre-book or reserve day passes for Odaru Onsen at this time.
Instead, you will find a gate alongside the main road, down the very steep, slippery stairs to the waterfall. Right before the changing rooms, you will be stopped at another gate to pay with the cash machine. There is a staff member here to help you and explain the rules.
How much is a Day Pass at Amagiso Odaru Onsen
Day passes at Amagiso Odaru Onsen are
ADULT: 1000yen / $10
CHILD: 750yen / $7.50
INFANT: 500yen / $5
Add ons
Where to stay near Odaru Waterfall Onsen
When I first discovered this unique soaking spot, I was pretty bummed out to see that Google says it is temporarily closed. No need to worry, because only the hotel remains closed for renovations. The “Waterfall Onsen Japan” is still open to the public with day passes available!
But with the hotel closed, where does that leave you to spend the night? (trust me, it is an area well worth staying the night!)
Our search led us to a true hidden gem Ryokan right next door called Nanadaru Onsen Hotel; 5 private onsen, traditional tatami rooms and access to the 7 waterfalls with prices starting from only $140 BUT I will leave it at that for now because this one really deserves its own post…
If you don’t want to wait for another post, jump straight to stalking in the links below. Including where we stayed, what else was on the bucket list and ryokan alternatives:
Kawazu, Japan
Kawazu, Japan
Kawazu, Japan
Amagiso Odaru Onsen Facilities & Amenities
- 8 Open-Air Baths (Rotenburo) – Although there is one main iconic “Waterfall Onsen Japan” spot right under the Odaru Falls You have probably seen flooding your socials (my bad), this hot spring retreat has 8 rotenburo scattered down the river all at varied temperatures.
- Gendered Changing Rooms and Coin Lockers – Yes, bathing is mixed gendered but there are still private MALE/FEMALE changing rooms to change, dry off and lock away your belongings. My favourite part is the mini clothes drying you can quickly spin you wet swimwear in before you leave.
- Outdoor Showers – There are showers on the outside of the changeroom for you to wash off or even wash your hair.
- Large Hot Spring Lap Pool – The biggest surprise came as we noticed people walking further down the river. Us being nosey, we decided to go for a wander ourselves to discover a hidden hot spring lap pool, perfect for kids to splash around in. We also saw a Beware of snakes sign here too… do with that what you will.
- Rent a Floatie – Unfortunately, the waterfall was closed for swimming during our visit after recent storms made it unsafe to do so. However, on clear days, they offer Floaties for rent to peacefully relax in the river under the waterfall.
- Optional Cave Onsen Experience (Add-On) – For an extra bit of magic and money you can soak in the hidden cave onsen. Like a secret spa tucked into the rock under the waterfall.
For the most up-to-date information and further pricing details, check out the Amagiso Website.
What to expect from the best waterfall onsen Japan has to offer
Soak in the 8 Unique Open-air baths next to the river
Take yourself along the river on an onsen crawl across the 8 varied temperature rotenburos.
Some tucked into the rocks, others feel like little fairy lagoons, and all are fed by natural mineral-rich waters that leave your skin and mind feeling amazing.
Honestly, this alone makes it the best waterfall onsen Japan has to offer.
Discover a unique cave onsen
Most come here for the waterfall view, but something extra mysterious hides beneath it.
You can pay a little extra to explore the cave onsen. A dark, steamy hideaway carved right into the rock makes for the perfect blend of relaxing bath and sauna feel. Transporting you into a completely different world and vibe.
If you’re craving an experience that feels like an Indiana Jones secret, this one’s a must visit.
Take a dip under the waterfall
Sure, you can find a handful of other waterfall onsens in Japan but not many of them actually allow you to swim under it not just next to it!
Odaru Falls powers down right beside the riverside onsen. When conditions are right, you can take a dip around its base and along the river. You can even hire a floatie to take it to the next level of river relaxation!
Although it really comes down to whether you’re brave enough, because it is more like a cold plunge.
Try the fresh wasabi grown along the waterfalls
From cherry blossoms to waterfall onsens, Kawazu is famous for a lot of things and Wasabi is one fo them!
The unqiue mountainous region offers the perfect conditions to grow the highest quality fresh wasabi (not the green paste from sushi train…). With wasabi gardens set up alongside various waterfalls and rivers around Kawazu.
I don’t think you can spot any from the Amagiso Odaru Onsen (or at least I didn’t) but there are a handful of local stores nearby that have the specialty on offer. Whether you buy a whole wasabi plant of test it out at one of the local restaurants, it is worth a try.
Take on the rest of the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls Trail
The Kawazu Nanadaru Seven Waterfalls Trail is one of the Izu Peninsula’s most iconic (and easiest) walks.
A simple trail that connects seven stunning waterfalls; each with its own name, shape, and story. The walk is well-marked with a few bonus fun facts and interactive experiences along the way. What you need to watch out for is the mossy stone steps, as they can be quite slippery, especially when wet.
The lucky last of those seven waterfalls is the 30m Odaru Falls. And what better way to end a hike than to soak your muscles!
Amagiso Odaru Onsen FAQ
Are tattoos allowed at Amagiso Odaru Onsen?
Yes, Amagiso Odaru Onsen is tattoo-friendly. HOWEVER, the rules for bathing here with tattoos are a little confusing…
Unlike places like Toyosu Manyo Club in Tokyo, there are no strict tattoo size regulations or stickers needed. Although the Amagiso website states, “you may bathe as long as they are covered with a rash guard or swimsuit”.
From our recent experience, we were told there was no problem for my partner (who has tattoos) to bathe without a rash shirt, which aligned with the information that local creator @yamatrips shared about those with even larger tattoos being shown.
Obviously, I never want to spread misinformation, and more so would never want to disrespect or damage a local community and culture. There are a lot of changes happening with Amagiso at the moment, so if you are concerned, please contact Amagiso directly.
Do you have to bathe naked?
What you do need to cover up is your body with a swimsuit, as this is a mixed gender onsen.
While most traditional onsens are culturally enjoyed in the nude, Amagiso Odaru Onsen requires you to wear a swimsuit during your visit.
I recommend bringing your own; however, if you find yourself in a pinch, Amagiso have some available to rent.
It says it is temporarily closed online. What does that mean?
When you look up Amagiso, it will likely show you the details of the hotel, which is currently closed for renovations after it burned down recently.
Luckily, the Odaru Onsen remains open for day pass access. There is a separate entrance that takes you down beside the hotel, then you pay at the main gate before the hot springs.
Can you visit the onsen without staying at the hotel?
When the hotel reopens, guests will have free access to the Odaru Onsen. Until then and for those simply wanting to visit for the day anyway, you can purchase day passes at the gate for 1000yen
Is there parking at Amagiso Odaru Onsen?
An added perk of us staying right next door at Nanadaru Onsen was that we had free parking and an easy walk to Amagiso Odaru Onsen. Don’t worry, there are plenty of other options around too:
There is a parking lot on the hotel grounds. When it is crowded, please use the nearby municipal parking lot (free).
Amagiso Hotel
1. After passing Amagisou, go about 300m and you will find a free municipal parking lot on your right.
2. There is a free municipal parking lot under the loop bridge just before Amagisou. Return from Amagisou and it will be on your left.
Is the waterfall onsen easily accessible?
With steep and slippery stairs to get down to the waterfall onsen, it is unfortunately not the most accessible.
Plus the paths alongside the river and baths are quite slippery and in some places, slimey so you have to be extra careful.
Any other juicy details I need to know?
Amagiso limit the number of people in the onsen. Depending on the season and time you visit, you may need to wait.
This is to protect the safety of the guests, facilities and the natural landscape.
What to pack for a day at the waterfall onsen
To make the most of your day at Odaru Onsen, don’t forget to bring:
- Cash – Ideally, a mix as the cash machine does not accept some of the newer notes
- Swimsuit
- Comfortable walking shoes to safely trek down the mountain
- Shower slippers or sandals to walk between the onsens (my tevas were perfect all around, highly recommend)
- Comfortable clothes – to walk up and down the mountain in
- Spare underwear – to change into after
Is Amagiso Odaru Onsen Worth Visiting? My brutally honest opinion.
Amagiso Odaru Onsen is absolutely worth visiting, just don’t expect this unique waterfall Japan to be an ultra-luxe, glamorous experience like it may look from first glance on social media.
After a slippery walk down past the burnt down hotel arrived at 10 am just as they were opening the booth. The lady was so lovely and incredibly helpful as we paid and got the rundown on the facilities/rules.
Splitting off into our separate change rooms, I was nervous to take on the slippery terrain alone, and even more so, entering into the dark cave-like room welcomed by a little spider. Sure, it is a little run down but it serves its purpose… you’re unlikely to spend much time in there anyway.
As the only ones there so far, we started at the most iconic rotenburo of them all right under the Odaru Falls. Surprised to find that it was kinda cold and slightly dirty. Beautiful for a photo but not to soak in much longer.
Again, i do want to note that we visited right after heavy rain, making the waterfall unsafe to swim in and wilder than usual; the likely culprit for the above.
The next couple of hours were spent bath crawling through the various temperatures. Even as others trickled in for the day, we never had to share a bath during our stay (it got a lot busier after midday though). It is no exaggeration when I say it felt like a fairytale and has jumped up to be one of my favourite travel memories ever.
We crossed paths with all kinds of people; couples, families, girls trips, locals, tourists, old guys in their very tight Speedos, even a frog!
Back to the original question… YES Amagiso Odaru Onsen is absolutely worth visiting. Don’t miss out on the full Kawaza Seven Waterfalls trail and traditional ryokan stays while you are there.
