Osaka River Rapids Hike and Natural Hot Spring tour

Escape the city and find serenity in the mountains of North Osaka with a 3-hour private tour. Hike the famous Settsukyo River Rapids Gorge, splash in crystal clear water, and relax in an open-air Onsen hot spring.

Duration: 3 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Settsukyo Park - After getting off the bus we will descend down the 2.1km hike and midway arrive at the most beautiful area of the Settsukyo Gorge which runs along the Akuta river. Here we wil spend from 30 minutes to an hour splash our feet or dive into the crystal clear waters that surround the natural beauty of the valley and gorge.
    After this we will head down the river and enjoy the beauty of the winding river, taking a 10 minute detour if needed to a secluded waterfal.
  • Settsukyo Park - After coming down from the mountain, we will pass by a park, to take a break, rest and buy a drink or an ice cream at one of the rest points. Here in Spring we can enjoy the beautiful Sakura cherry blossoms, summer the greenery and summer flowers, fireflies, in fall the warm red hues of the Japanese maple leaves and in winter quiet serenity of nature.
  • Bijin-yu Shofuen - At the end of the hike, we will proceed to
    the hot spring(Bijin-yu) , which is one of the only true Onsen in Osaka. The water is 100% natural and has therapeutic properties. Before entering the baths, a full explanation by myself of how to bathe in the waters the correct way will be given.
    The baths are segregated into male and female areas, so privacy is optimum. . Nudity is also required, so please feel free to ask about the dos and don’t of how bathe. It is truly a liberating experience in itself, so do not be shy.
    After leaving the baths, we can talk about our experiences and catch the bus back to the station to say our goodbyes.
What's Included
  • Complimentary bottled water
  • Skin covering tape for tattoos
  • Bus ride into the hills from Takatsuki station
What's Not Included
  • The entrance fee to the Hot Spring is 1000 yen(7 dollars). Children under the age of 12 , 400 yen.
Additional Information

Embark on a trek along the renowned Settsukyo River Rapids Gorge, revel in the pristine water, and gain knowledge about the local plants and animals, before indulging in a Onsen (hot spring). Experience bathing outdoors in the traditional Japanese manner, fully exposed to the elements. Escape the urban hustle and discover tranquillity in the mountains of North Osaka. The location is conveniently just 30 minutes away from either Osaka or Kyoto, located in one of the most peaceful regions.

Location
Takatsuki Station
Please meet at JR Takatsuki station outside the ticket barriers of the main central exit. I will be wearing a baseball cap and sunglasses on my head. I'm about 193 cm tall, so you cannot miss me.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
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(1 Rating)
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D9569wxmarkn
Jul 7, 2024
The River rapids tour was incredible - As it was extremely hot on Saturday, dipping my toes in the crystal clear waters of the river was very refreshing. Next time I will bring my swimwear. The highlight of the tour was finally arriving at the hot spring where Laurence taught me the correct way to bathe ..The onsen water is therapeutic to the skin and was told it heals all sorts of ailments. The tour is not particularly strenuous, but the hike can be a little tricky in places. As the this tour is quite free and open to suggestions, there is a waterfall close by which is accessible, and at the hot spring there is a restaurant which is highly recommended for its cuisine. Ask Laurence anytime for advice on this. I would totally go on this tour again as Laurence's knowledge of the surrounding nature and it history was fascinating & I had a great day out. This tour is a nice refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and a chance to see a hidden area of natural beauty . This area is definitely one of Japan’s hidden gems!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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up to 6 guests
1 Adult
September 2024
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