Ryujin Onsen 龍神温泉
Ryujin Onsen (Onsen means Hot Spring) is situated in the flowing waters of the Hidaka River, where the fragrance of the surrounding woods and the murmuring of the river can be heard in a natural setting. Ryujin Onsen is located at the entrance of the Ryujin-Koya Skyline highway that links Koyasan and the Kumano area and is a perfect place to stop and relax between these two sacred sites. Buses run from Tanabe to Koyasan from April 1st to November 30th.
In ancient times, this place was discovered by a founder of ascetic Buddhism, Shugendo's Ennogyoja. This hot spring has had a prestigious history from the time it was opened when Kobo Daishi had a divine revelation about it in his dream of a god of the sea, Nada-ryu-o. In the Edo era, it was used as a resort area for the Tokugawa ruling family, and the famous hot springs are overflowing with history. At present there are still Japanese inns with names such as "Kami-goden" (Royal Palace), and "Shimo-goden" (Lower Lodgings), and these names still remain as a reminder of the old feudal system.
Ryujin's high quality hot spring waters are clear with a high quantity of sodium bicarbonate and is considered to be the best in Japan. The smooth and silky waters are well known for making skin beautiful and is one of Japan's three famous Bijin-no-yu or "Beautifying Hot Springs."
- Ryujin Sightseeing Bureau (Japanese)
