Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku - An outdoor tattoo-friendly hot spring in Gunma, Kanto

We went when it was snowing heavily end of Feb and we were told that it never usually snows this late into February there. It definitely made for a very dramatic and gorgeous back drop! Cars were getting stuck on the way out and one car we saw was abandoned side of the road so make sure you are aware of road conditions if driving. You can also take a train from Tokyo as an option.

The modern building when you arrive looks really ugly. Most of the rooms do not have a bathroom especially if you are staying in the older section. Rooms are extremely tired but cleaned. Bathrooms are ugly but still good shower pressure. The food is excellent and the open onsens are spectacular. It’s great for couples as they are coed and people with tattoos are allowed. Go there for the unbelievably beautiful setting not the hotel.

It was like a dream. I came in November (highly recommend for the temperature and the changing leaves)and it was beautiful bathing in the Onsen and admiring the view. The room was spacious, and the futon beds were very comfortable. The food was okay, but the service was top-notch. According to my partner: If you are over 6 ft bring a helmet, other than that, spectacular stay! Also for the love of god: DON’T BE THAT PERSON AND TAKE PHOTOS WHERE YOU ARE NOT SUPPOSED TO (AKA IN THE ACTUAL ONSEN)