Ikaho Onsen

**Stone Steps experience:** The 365 steps climb from the town's lower entrance to Ikaho Shrine (伊香保神社) at the summit (20-minute ascent). The climb is leisurely — stop at shops selling onsen manju (温泉まんじゅう, steamed buns, ¥150), yuzu soft-serve (¥400), and local crafts. Night (19:00-21:00) is most atmospheric when lanterns light the steps and fewer tourists navigate the stairs. The visible hot spring water flowing in wooden channels (湯樋, yudoi) along the steps is unique to Ikaho — the water eventually feeds into ryokan baths. **Kogane vs. Shirogane baths:** Kogane-no-yu (golden water) is iron-rich, turns reddish-brown on contact with air, and is believed to aid circulation and women's health. Shirogane-no-yu (silver water) is clear, odorless, and gentler on skin. The public Ishidan-no-yu (石段の湯, ¥450, mid-steps location) uses kogane water. For shirogane water, visit the public Shirogane-no-yu bath (¥550, north of town center, a short walk). Both are gender-separated, basic facilities — bring towel or buy at reception (¥200). **Ikaho Green Bokujo:** a bus ride (or a short walk uphill) from the stone steps, Ikaho Green Bokujo (伊香保グリーン牧場, ¥1,200 entry) is a sheep farm with petting zoo, sheep shows, horseback riding, and mountain views. Suitable for families with children. The farm sells soft-serve ice cream (¥400) made from local milk. **Day-trip strategy:** Buses from Tokyo (Shinjuku) depart 8:00-10:00 (90 minutes, ¥2,500 one-way). Arrive 10:30-12:00, walk the stone steps, have lunch (udon, soba, or kaiseki at ryokan restaurants, ¥1,500-3,000), soak in public baths, browse shops, then return bus 16:00-18:00. The resort is compact (a short walking radius) — a full day-trip is feasible without overnight stay, though staying overnight at a ryokan (with kaiseki dinner and private baths) is the premium experience.