Iya Onsen is one of the most memorable hot springs in Japan, thanks to its extraordinary setting deep in the Iya Valley gorge. From a hotel perched on the clifftop, guests ride a private cable car that descends 170 metres straight down the steep, forested cliff face to reach riverside open-air baths (rotenburo) at the very bottom of the gorge, right beside the rushing Iya River. Soaking in the warm, softly mineral water while surrounded by towering canyon walls, forest and the sound of the river is an unforgettable experience, especially amid fresh green or autumn colour. The dramatic cable-car descent is part of the adventure. Remote and spectacular, Iya Onsen combines a superb natural hot-spring setting with the wild beauty of Japan’s deepest valley.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Iya Valley, Tokushima |
| Hours | Baths daytime; check with the hotel |
| Admission | Cable car + bath fee |
| Time needed | 1–1.5 hours |
| Best time | Fresh green summer; autumn colour |
What to Do
- Riverside open-air baths at the bottom of a gorge.
- A private cable car descending the cliff face.
- Soaking beside the rushing Iya River amid canyon walls.
- Superb scenery in fresh green or autumn colour.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with the Kazurabashi vine bridge nearby.
- Pair with Oboke Gorge in the valley.
- Read our Tokushima overview .
Getting There
- By car: the practical way deep into the Iya Valley.
- At the hotel: the cable car runs from the clifftop hotel.
Tips
Access to the cliff baths is via the hotel’s cable car, so check whether day-use bathing is available or whether you need to stay, as this varies. Come in fresh green or autumn colour for the finest gorge scenery, bring a towel, and combine the onsen with the deep Iya Valley’s vine bridge and Oboke Gorge, which need a car.
