Aizu Ashinomaki Onsen Marumine: Kawane, a Ryokan with Gorgeous Gorge Views

A long-established ryokan tucked along the mountain stream in Ashinomaki, Aizu. From panoramic Japanese-style rooms with beautiful gorge views to compact twin rooms, the lineup is varied, but the signature is its luxurious guest rooms with private open-air baths featuring free-flowing hot spring water. Choose from five room types, including Japanese-western rooms that pair a sunken kotatsu-style sitting area with a bedroom, traditional 12-tatami rooms with a wide veranda, and Western-style rooms with a queen bed. Pick what fits your trip and travel companions.

In the large public bath, you can enjoy natural hot spring water in a striking tub made from ancient cypress, measuring over 6.5 feet (2 meters) across. Breathe in the fresh hinoki aroma and feel the gorge breeze as you soak—like a relaxing forest bath. The spring is a mildly alkaline, hypotonic high-temperature onsen, said to help with nerve pain and muscle aches.

Dinner features a kaiseki meal with two course options. The Japanese breakfast, packed with seasonal flavors, is another highlight.