Ikaho (Gunma Prefecture)

It is easy to become enamoured with the onsen (hot springs baths) in Japan.  

The country is located on the Pacific “ring of fire”, a geological line that was caused by plate tectonics and is characterized by significant earthquake and volcanic activity.   One outcome is that hot springs occur almost everywhere, and the Japanese are avid about using them for their sybaritic pleasure.  Most Japanese inns include access to onsen; the public baths are separated by gender, but sometimes you have access to a private tub.

Japanese inns also supply pretty much all of the clothing you might require for your stay.  Guests put on their yukatas (robes) or pajamas for dinner and generally wear them in and around the inn.

During our stay in Ikaho, we also learned what “kaiseki” cuisine is all about…..  Basically, each kaiseki meal is a feast composed of many small dishes – including lots of fish (even at breakfast), vegetables (steamed, pickled, boiled, raw), meat, hot pot, soup, rice and much more – beautifully presented on unique serving pieces.  A dinner meal can last more than 2 hours.

It is a LOT of food.  You start off the meal with delight and anticipation…..

And often end dazed and almost miserable…..

We are trying to get a handle on this style of eating going forward.  Promise not to post too many more food pictures, unless they are truly unique.

This is our first trip with a professional tour guide.  Setsuko is knowledgeable, lots of fun and best of all, flexible.  

Our next chapter takes us to the northern island of Hokkaido, where we will have a chance to experience some Japanese winter activities, and view a little wildlife along the way.