Hōtsubo-an

A day-use hot spring facility located in Kitayama Village, famous as a remote enclave surrounded by Mie and Nara Prefectures in Wakayama. Surrounded by a massive dam lake and deep mountain scenery, the large bath feels like a sunroom. The open-air bath offers a sense of unity with nature.

Kitayama Village, the only enclave in Japan surrounded by Mie and Nara Prefectures. The Yamazaki Shop Jabara store was established in collaboration with Kitayama Village. It sells processed foods made from the elusive citrus fruit "jabara," which only grows wild in Kitayama Village. It is characterized by its unique flavor and mild acidity.

If you want to experience thrills on the Kitayama River, trying sightseeing rafting or rafting is a good option. Rafts were once used to transport timber logged in Kumano. Now, you can experience rafting for tourism purposes. This rafting is unique to this village in Japan, descending about 6 km from Otonori to Komatsu in about an hour. The skilled raft guides skillfully maneuver the oars through the rapids, which is impressive. Duration is 2 hours. Rafting down the same course on a rubber boat (fee: 7,700 yen, including all equipment rental, guide fee, and insurance, closed from October to April) is also gaining popularity. An instructor accompanies you and provides guidance. Duration is 3 hours.