Snowshoe and Hot Spring Adventures in Myokokogen, Japan

Sunrise and outdoor black mineral water hot spring at Alpen Blick Hotel

Winter is covering the high mountains of Japan with layers of snow. The panoramic vista of white fields, forests, lakes, and hills resembled an intricate white silk wedding kimono, or so I thought while sitting in a hot spring in Myokokogen, Niigata. Steam from the black mineral water swirled with drifting snowflakes around the snowy rocks on the edge of the bath. I pressed my hand against the bottom of the bath and compared the color of my wet hand with the fresh snow. In this area of Ikenodaira-onsen, some unfiltered spring water contains dark mineral sediment.  

Mineral deposits on skin

I was enjoying the outdoor bath at the Alpen Blick Hotel, which is at the base of a ski run, so you can ski, soak, and sleep without the hassle of driving. The view from the outdoor bath cannot be beaten, and walking in below-freezing temperatures through the long hallway that connects the hotel with the outdoor bathing area builds anticipation. It makes entering the bath a stimulating experience. The hotel's indoor bath has filtered clear water in an unattractive room without a view. 

Outside view of the bath facility

When is the best time to visit a hot spring?  My Japanese bathing friends agree that a hot spring is best enjoyed after a long hike in nature. The bath is a welcome reward for physical exertion and helps reduce muscle aches. During the first major snowfall of 2012, my wife and I searched for a location with snowshoeing trails and hot springs. Myokokogen has these in abundance. Our first hike brought us to a waterfall, called Naenataki, which is officially listed as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Japan.  

Naena-taki in Myokokogen

Most beautiful woman in Japan enjoys waterfall viewing

Myoko-kogen (妙高高原), which is on the border of Niigata and Nagano Prefectures, comprises seven hot spring areas, each with its own uniqueness. You can expect more reports about Myoko-kogen in the near future. Until then, stay hot and wet.