Every year, Kinugawa Onsen celebrates the Lunar New Year on a grand scale. The resort holds various events and offers special gifts for international visitors. Outside the festivities, relax in the hot springs and have fun in the area's amusement parks.
On Foot
Short walk
Invite good luck for the year at Kinugawa Onsen!
Join us in celebrating the "Oni" (ogres) of Kinugawa Onsen! This festival is a lively event where we drive away evil spirits and welcome good fortune alongside our local ogres. While ogres are often depicted as scary creatures in folklore, the ogres of Kinugawa are beloved symbols of "good luck" and prosperity.
[Event Period] February 1 – February 28, 2026
Various events will be held throughout the month.
1. Special Event at Kinugawa Onsen Station
A two-day celebration featuring local culture and flavors.
Dates: February 7 (Sat) & 8 (Sun), 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Location: Kinugawa Onsen Station Plaza (Right outside the station)
Highlights: Local food stalls, traditional performing arts, and fun activities like target shooting and shuriken (ninja star) throwing. Note: Stage performances are free to watch. Food and activities require a fee.
2. Limited-Time "Oni-Gourmet"
Discover unique "Oni" themed dishes created by over 20 local restaurants! From adorable ogre-shaped sweets to "Oni-mori" (mega-sized portions) and "Oni-kara" (extra spicy) dishes, there is something for everyone.
Period: February 1 - 28, 2026
3. Seven Lucky Ogres Stamp Rally
Explore the town and find the ceramic statues of "Kinuta" and "Kinuko," the guardian ogres believed to ward off evil. Collect all 6 remaining stamps to receive a special limited-edition gift!
Participation: Free
Stamp Sheet & Prize Collection: Kinugawa-Kawaji Onsen Tourist Information Center (Open 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
How to Join: One stamp is pre-marked on the sheet. Visit the bridges and landmarks across the hot spring town to find the rest.
4. Be an Oni! – Special Discounts & Perks
Wear "Oni" goods (such as ogre masks or horns) to receive special discounts and small gifts at participating facilities. Let’s all become ogres and enjoy the festivities together!
Details: Participating facilities and specific dates will be announced soon.
5. Traditional "Mamemaki" (Bean Throwing)
Experience the traditional Japanese custom of Mamemaki to bring in good luck. Guests staying at participating hotels will receive a complimentary "Fukumame (Lucky Beans) & Mini Oni Mask" set.
Eligibility: Guests at participating accommodations (One set per room). Note: Supplies are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Distribution periods vary by hotel.
For those who want to enjoy winter in Nikko, please check this article.
By bus
5-minute ride to Tobu World Square. 20-minute ride to Nikko Edomura
By bus
20 minutes from Nikko Edomura by the bus to Kinugawa-Onsen Station
Kinugawa Onsen is actually made up of two hot springs—Taki Onsen on the west bank of the Kinugawa River, and Fujiwara Onsen on the east. It’s known for its relaxing properties and it attracts many travelers each year. Currently Kinugawa Onsen has over 80 hotels and ryokans, ranging from traditional Japanese style to modern Western style.
By taxi
5-minute ride
By taxi
5-minute ride
