Sansuikan Kawayu Midoriya

Located along the Oto River, a tributary of the Kumano River, Sansuikan Kawayu Midoriya is a hot spring inn in the Kawayu Onsen area, part of the Kumano Hongu Onsen Village. True to its name, Kawayu Onsen is a rare spot where 70°C spring water constantly bubbles up from the riverbed, allowing visitors to dig their own hot spring bath along the riverbank.

A dedicated open-air bath for guests is set up on the Oto River's bank, fed by a private spring source. Guests can relax in the soothing hot water while listening to the river’s flow and birds singing. In summer, visitors can enjoy both river activities and hot springs at the same time.

The cuisine highlights seasonal delights from Kumano, including grilled sweetfish (ayu), local vegetables, and mushrooms. Dinner is served as a half-buffet with about 30 regional dishes or as a traditional kaiseki meal. Breakfast is offered in a Japanese-Western buffet format, featuring specialties like onsen porridge and hot spring eggs made from the inn’s private spring.

In winter, from December to the end of February, the famous "Sennin-buro" (Sage's Bath) opens just a 7-minute walk from the inn. This vast open-air bath on the riverbank provides an unforgettable experience for winter visitors.