Maguse Onsen (Nagano Prefecture, Kijimadaira Village) Complete Guide | Spectacular Open-Air Bath and Four Seasons’ Charm
Maguse Onsen (まぐせおんせん), located in Kijimadaira Village, Shimotakai District, Nagano Prefecture, is highly regarded by many hot spring enthusiasts as a hidden gem nestled in the mountains of North Shinshu. This hot spring area is characterized by the scenic beauty of the valley along the Maguse River and the majestic landscape of the Northern Alps visible from the open-air bath. This article provides comprehensive information you should know before visiting, including details about the water quality, facilities, access methods, and how to enjoy the hot spring through all four seasons.
About Maguse Onsen | A Heaven-in-the-Sky Secret Hot Spring Overlooking the Scenic Beauty of North Shinshu
Maguse Onsen is a hot spring area located in Kijimadaira Village in the northeastern part of Nagano Prefecture (former Shinano Province), stretching along a valley at the base of the southwestern slope of Mount Banbutsu. Due to its location in a high-altitude mountainous area, it is also called the “Heaven-in-the-Sky Secret Hot Spring.” On clear days, you can see Takasha Mountain (こうしゃさん), the symbol of Kijimadaira Village, and even the distant peaks of the Northern Alps from the open-air bath.
This hot spring area, surrounded by the pristine natural environment of the upper Maguse River, displays different faces throughout the four seasons—fresh green in spring, deep green in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snow-viewing baths in winter. Particularly during the autumn foliage season, the entire valley turns red and yellow, making it a popular destination for viewing fall colors while soaking in the hot spring and enjoying spectacular views.
History and Facility Overview of Maguse Onsen Park
Maguse Onsen Park is a hot spring facility developed as a gathering place for the community, centered around the day-use bathing facility “Maguse Onsen Bougyo no Yu,” with the simple lodging facility “Nashi no Ki-so” (Pear Tree Lodge) located adjacent. In April 2024, it underwent a major renovation and reopening, with its exterior and logo redesigned, creating a more modern and stylish atmosphere.
The hot spring facility is located on the banks of the Maguse River and is characterized by a design that allows visitors to feel at one with nature. While the surrounding area is a quiet, mountainous region, it has been loved for many years by local residents and tourists as a well-maintained public park.
※As of Monday, November 24, 2025, Maguse Onsen is closed for operations. For those planning to visit, please confirm the latest business status in advance through Kijimadaira Village Tourism Promotion Bureau or official facility information.
Water Quality and Therapeutic Effects of Maguse Onsen | An Excellent Therapeutic Hot Spring
The water quality of Maguse Onsen is a weakly alkaline simple hot spring. Simple hot springs are among the most common spring types in Japan, and since they contain relatively few dissolved minerals, they have a gentle effect on the skin and can be safely enjoyed by people of all ages.
Water Quality Data
- Water Type: Weakly alkaline simple hot spring
- pH Level: Weakly alkaline
- Characteristics: Colorless and transparent, odorless, soft texture
- Indicated Conditions: Neuralgia, muscle pain, joint pain, frozen shoulder, motor paralysis, joint stiffness, contusions, sprains, chronic gastrointestinal disorders, hemorrhoids, poor circulation, post-recovery periods, fatigue recovery, health maintenance, and more
Weakly alkaline hot springs are also called “beauty waters” and are said to have the effect of softening old dead skin cells. Maguse Onsen is known as an excellent therapeutic hot spring and is registered with the Japan Hot Spring Association, making it a highly trusted hot spring.
Health Benefits of Bathing
Simple hot springs are suitable for extended bathing and repeated soaking due to their mild nature. Additionally, the thermal effect of the hot spring promotes blood circulation, making it effective for fatigue recovery and alleviating muscle tension. At Maguse Onsen’s high altitude, the clean air and quiet environment further enhance relaxation effects.
Maguse Onsen Bougyo no Yu | Facility and Bath Charm
“Maguse Onsen Bougyo no Yu,” the main facility of Maguse Onsen, is a public hot spring facility offering day-use bathing. With the 2024 renovation, the facility’s comfort and functionality have been improved.
Spectacular View from the Open-Air Bath
The greatest charm of Maguse Onsen is undoubtedly the spectacular view from the open-air bath. From this rustic open-air bath, you can see Mount Takasha directly before you, and on favorable weather days, you can enjoy a panoramic view all the way to the distant peaks of the Northern Alps. Soaking in the hot spring amid such open, expansive scenery is truly a blissful moment.
You can experience the beauty of each season—fresh green shoots in spring, deep green in summer, brilliant autumn foliage in fall, and pure white snowy landscapes in winter. The autumn foliage season is particularly magnificent, with the entire valley turning red, yellow, and orange—a breathtaking sight to behold while soaking in the hot spring, an indulgence unique to Maguse Onsen.
Hinoki Wood Indoor Bath
Equally popular alongside the open-air bath is the indoor bath made of hinoki (Japanese cypress) wood. Bathing enveloped in the fragrance of hinoki provides both body and mind with a relaxing and healing experience. It is designed for comfortable enjoyment of the hot spring even on cloudy days or cold winter days.
From the indoor bath, you can also view the natural scenery through windows, allowing you to enjoy leisurely bathing while feeling the passage of the seasons.
Business Hours and Admission Fees
Normal business hours are from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (hours may vary depending on season and day of week). The admission fee is comparable to typical day-use hot spring facilities, with an approximate range of 500 yen for adults and 300 yen for children (fees may change, so please confirm the latest information before your visit).
Rest areas and dining facilities are also available, allowing you to relax comfortably after bathing. There are light meals using local ingredients and a souvenir corner, allowing you to fully savor the charm of Kijimadaira Village.
Nashi no Ki-so | Simple Lodging Facility with Room-Only Stays
“Nashi no Ki-so” (Pear Tree Lodge), adjacent to Maguse Onsen Bougyo no Yu, is a simple lodging facility offering room-only accommodations. It is ideal for those wishing to thoroughly enjoy the hot spring or extend their stay in Kijimadaira Village.
While meals are not provided, this results in a more affordable rate, allowing for flexible stays. Since the hot spring facility is adjacent, you can easily enjoy baths in the morning and evening. There are restaurants and a roadside station nearby, so meals are not a concern.
Access to Maguse Onsen | By Car and Public Transportation
Since Maguse Onsen is located in a mountainous area, it is important to confirm access methods in advance.
Access by Car
When Using Expressways:
- Approximately 15 km from “Toyoda Iiyama IC” on the Joshin-etsu Expressway, approximately 20 minutes by car
- Proceed via National Route 117 and then take Prefectural Road 38 toward Maguse Onsen
Satnav Settings:
- Address: Nagano Prefecture, Shimotakai District, Kijimadaira Village, Ogo 5567-1
- Facility Name: Maguse Onsen Bougyo no Yu
A free parking lot with approximately 50 spaces is available, providing peace of mind for day-use visitors.
Access by Public Transportation
By Train and Bus:
- Get off at “Iiyama Station” on the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen
- Approximately 15 minutes by taxi from Iiyama Station (approximately 10 km)
- Or use taxi from “Iiyama Station” on the JR Iiyama Line
When using public transportation, scheduled bus services from Iiyama Station are limited, making taxi use the most reliable option. For group visits, sharing the taxi fare makes travel relatively affordable.
Precautions When Accessing
The road to Maguse Onsen is a mountain road with the possibility of snow accumulation and icy conditions, particularly during winter. When visiting in winter, be sure to equip your vehicle with studless tires and carry chains, driving safely. Additionally, since there are few street lights at night, travel during daylight hours is recommended.
Enjoying Maguse Onsen Through All Four Seasons
One of the major attractions of Maguse Onsen is that it displays a different face with each season through its natural scenery. A completely different experience awaits depending on which season you visit.
Spring (April–May): Season of Fresh Green and Budding
Spring, which arrives with snowmelt, is when the mountains all begin to bud simultaneously. Delicate green new growth colors the valley, and a landscape full of vitality unfolds. Spring bathing carries a pleasant sense of liberation from winter cold, allowing you to feel spring’s awakening while soaking in the hot spring.
Summer (June–August): Deep Green and Cool Refreshment
Summer at Maguse Onsen is appealing for its refreshing ambiance surrounded by rich green foliage. Due to its high altitude, the temperature is lower than in the lowlands, making it an ideal summer retreat. Bathing while listening to the babbling of the Maguse River allows for a refreshing experience even during hot summer months.
Autumn (September–November): Spectacular Autumn Foliage
Autumn is the season when Maguse Onsen shines most brightly. The autumn foliage painting the entire valley in red, yellow, and orange is absolutely breathtaking, and viewing these leaves from the open-air bath while bathing will become an unforgettable memory. The peak season is typically mid-October through early November, and this period attracts particularly large numbers of tourists.
The area surrounding Maguse Onsen is also known as a famous foliage viewing spot, making it ideal not only for hot spring bathing but also for hiking. Since the foliage season is expected to be crowded, visiting on weekdays or during early hours is recommended.
Winter (December–March): The Mystical World of Snow-Viewing Baths
Winter at Maguse Onsen is a special season for enjoying snow-viewing baths. Bathing while gazing upon the valley and mountains completely blanketed in white snow provides a mystical and peaceful luxury of time. The contrast between the cold air and warm hot spring water is delightful, offering a unique hot spring experience only winter can provide.
Tourist Attractions Around Maguse Onsen
When visiting Maguse Onsen, it is recommended to also enjoy tourist attractions in Kijimadaira Village and the surrounding areas.
Takasha Mountain (Koushasan)
Takasha Mountain, the symbol of Kijimadaira Village, stands at an elevation of 1,351 meters and can be viewed beautifully from Maguse Onsen. You can enjoy mountain climbing and hiking, with panoramic views of North Shinshu spread before you from the summit.
Rural Scenery of Kijimadaira Village
Kijimadaira Village is a region with beautiful rural scenery where you can see paddy fields and traditional farmhouse architecture. The autumn scenery when rice is ripening is particularly beautiful, allowing you to experience Japan’s original landscape.
Roadside Station FARMUS Kijimadaira
A roadside station where you can purchase fresh local agricultural products and specialty items. Kijimadaira Village rice, vegetables, and processed goods are all available, making it ideal for selecting souvenirs. The restaurant serves dishes made with local ingredients.
Iiyama City Center
Located approximately 20 minutes by car from Maguse Onsen, the Iiyama city center features a historic townscape known as “Temple Town,” Iiyama Castle Park, and other tourist attractions. Combining a hot spring visit with historical exploration is also recommended.
Precautions and Etiquette When Visiting Maguse Onsen
Confirming Business Status
As mentioned above, Maguse Onsen has been closed since Monday, November 24, 2025. Be sure to confirm the latest business status before visiting. Additionally, the facility may close temporarily due to snow accumulation during winter, making advance confirmation especially important during winter months.
Hot Spring Etiquette
- Always rinse your body thoroughly before entering the bath
- Do not place towels in the hot spring water
- Tie up long hair before bathing
- Keep conversation volumes low in the open-air bath
- Be mindful of other bathers’ privacy when taking photographs
Winter Equipment
When visiting during winter, ensure full snow-road preparations including warm clothing and studless tires. While the hot spring facility interior is warm, the trip to the parking lot and facility can be cold, so wearing easily removable layers is recommended.
Contact Information and Basic Information for Maguse Onsen
Basic Information
- Facility Name: Maguse Onsen Bougyo no Yu
- Address: 〒389-2302 Nagano Prefecture, Shimotakai District, Kijimadaira Village, Ogo 5567-1
- Phone Number: Kijimadaira Village Tourism Promotion Bureau or direct facility number (please confirm the latest information before visiting)
- Business Hours: Normally 10:00 AM–7:00 PM (subject to change)
- Days Off: Irregular (closed during winter closure periods)
- Parking: Free (approximately 50 spaces)
- Water Quality: Weakly alkaline simple hot spring
Contact Addresses
For the latest business information and reservations, please contact the following:
- Kijimadaira Village Tourism Promotion Bureau (Meguru Kijimadaira)
- Kijimadaira Village Industrial Division
The latest information is also shared on websites and social media, so it is recommended to check before your visit.
Conclusion | Experience the Nature and Hot Spring of North Shinshu at Maguse Onsen
Maguse Onsen is a spectacular hot spring destination that Nagano Prefecture’s Kijimadaira Village is proud to offer. An open-air bath overlooking the Northern Alps, beautiful natural scenery throughout all four seasons, water quality excellent for therapeutic use, and a peaceful mountain-enclosed healing space—all these elements combine to make Maguse Onsen an ideal location for escaping daily life and refreshing yourself.
The autumn foliage view is particularly worth seeing, captivating not only hot spring enthusiasts but also many nature lovers. With its 2024 renovation, Maguse Onsen has transformed into an even more comfortable and appealing facility. Once business resumes, be sure to visit once and experience the charm of this North Shinshu secret hot spring.
During your visit, enjoy the distinctive character each season offers, and explore nearby tourist attractions for an even more enriching stay in Kijimadaira Village. Spend a special time healing both body and mind at Maguse Onsen.
