GUNMA

Ikaho Stone Steps

A 365-Step Journey Through Time at One of Japan's Most Historic Hot Spring Towns

Climb the iconic Ishidan stone steps at Ikaho Onsen in Gunma Prefecture, where 400 years of history converge with traditional hot spring culture.

Culture & Arts Onsen & Stay Nature & Views

Access

Step into the heart of Ikaho Onsen, along a captivating stone stairway lined with steaming footbaths, vintage game arcades, and the irresistible aroma of freshly steamed buns.

The Ishidan stone steps have stood as the beating heart of Ikaho Onsen for four centuries, first constructed during the hot spring town's earliest days. Today's granite steps, carefully remodeled over five years starting in 1980, total exactly 365: one for each day of the year, symbolizing the town's wish to welcome visitors throughout every season. An expansion projects in 2010 to connected a new plaza and the stunning Yutaki waterfall to the steps, making the area even more inviting.

As you ascend, you'll discover hidden treasures embedded in the stone. More than 200 years ago, twelve long-established inns each adopted a zodiac animal as their family crest. Today, these symbols are engraved where those historic inns once stood. As your climb turns into a treasure hunt for your birth year, you might also notice that poems by renowned poet Akiko Yosano grace the steps, inviting literary contemplation as you stroll.
The street flanking the steps pulses with nostalgic energy, as traditional shooting galleries and game arcades (once numbering in the dozens) still offer family-friendly entertainment reminiscent of old Japan. Souvenir shops beckon with local crafts, while steaming stalls sell Ikaho's most famous contribution to Japanese culture: onsen manju. These glossy brown steamed buns were born right here, with the celebrated Yunohana Manju once presented to the Imperial Family, launching its nationwide fame.

When your legs need a rest, slip off your shoes at one of the footbaths dotted along the route, or visit Ishidan no Yu, a public bathhouse constructed using stones from the original steps. Throughout your journey, keep an eye out for the komaguchi—four historic outlets where you can see hot spring water flow from the source, a reminder of the thermal forces that built this town.

As evening falls, the stone steps transform under warm orange illuminations, creating an enchanting atmosphere that makes the climb feel truly magical. If you’re a hot spring lover or simply wish to learn more about Japan’s past, Ikaho’s stone steps might just be the perfect destination for you—with the cherry on top as the delicious flavor of freshly steamed manju.

Address

76-5 Ikaho, Ikaho-machi, Shibukawa City, Gunma Prefecture (Ikaho Onsen Stone Steps)

Phone number

'+81-279-72-3151 (Shibukawa Ikaho Onsen Tourism Association)

Business hours

Ikaho Stone Steps: Open 24 hours

WEB site

https://www.ikaho-kankou.com/en/

Digital Map