Kaichoro Ryokan, Activities in the Ikaho Area
Ikaho Onsen, an ancient hot springs town nestled in the misty forested foothills of the volcanic Mount Haruna, falls delightfully off the beaten path, making a visit to the Kaichoro Ryokan a pleasant adventure into a Japan more often visited by the Japanese themselves.
Located as it is on the steep pitch of the Mount Haruna's eastern slope, Ikaho Onsen's main street is not a street at all, but rather, a long, staggered flight of stairs working its way through the traditional souvenir shops, ryokan and guest houses, before terminating in the level grounds of a small Shinto Shrine. Besides quiet strolls up and down the steps, where guests from ryokan throughout the town take the air in blue and white yukata kimono, there is very little to do in Ikaho Onsen itself other than soaking up the holiday atmosphere of the place.
The surrounding area, however offers plenty of attractions, from hiking, visiting the lovely Haruna Shrine, visiting a traditional Kokeshi doll factory, or learning to make tofu and soba noodles.