Liberty resort AMAGISO

The baths are the only thing I can comment on, since the hotel wasn't available. There are two choices: a private cave bath down the stairs toward the waterfall, and a much larger public bathing area beside Oh-daru. At the public baths, there are around six or seven pools at different temperatures and sizes, some outdoors, plus a swimming pool and one shower. Small sheds serve as changing areas, and coin lockers are by the entrance. Since it's an outdoor public space, you need a swimsuit. The scenery is lovely, and mixed outdoor bathing is unusual these days, so it could be a great family outing. The facilities are old, though, with very few amenities. Bring your own swimsuit, towel, and pool slippers, and shower beforehand. The cave bath is a different experience. You pass its entrance on the way to the service desk, then need a reservation and a key for the locked door. The key has to be returned within 30 minutes. There's no toilet, shower, locker, or changing room in the cave, though the locked door makes the lack of a changing area manageable. It's quite dark inside, which adds to the atmosphere, and seems especially suited to couples. Adults pay 1,000 yen. Towels and swimsuits can be rented for a fee, but slippers aren't available.

We had the pool and onsen to ourselves when we visited, and both were lovely. The pool is on the left, while the outdoor bath looks straight out at a huge waterfall. It was my first time soaking outside with a view like that, and I thought the whole place was beautiful. You can stay overnight or come just to use the pool and onsen. Swimwear rental is included in the fee.

We visited on April 29 just for the hot springs, without booking a room at Amagiso. It's known for its open-air public bath, and the low price comes with a wonderful view of the falls and surrounding nature. You'll need a swimsuit or diving suit. Tattoos are allowed if they're not too visible, and can be covered with a long swimsuit. Getting to the small reception house means walking downhill for about 10-15 minutes. There's a restroom, but not much space for belongings, so travel light. The large pool is only open in summer. There's no washing area to clean yourself after bathing, so there's no need to bring soap or shampoo. You just get in and get out.

I found it easy to get to, and the staff were welcoming. The sound of the waterfalls made the place feel really calming, and the scenery was breathtaking. There are five outdoor onsens by the falls, plus one inside a tunnel. They also have a pool with warm water, which felt great. A lovely spot to unwind and shake off some stress.