A favorite among locals, this riverside hotel deep in the mountains has incredible natural hot spring pools.

SomehowTakaragawa Onsen Osenkakudoes this effortlessly; welcoming guests into an enchanting hotel in Japan’s Gunma prefecture.

Leave your shoes at the front desk and your suitcase unopened.

The river hot spring at Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku

Credit:Courtesy of Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku

Takaragawa Onsen is built alongside Takaraga River, high in the mountains ofJapan.

Ruins from the Jomon Era (145 -1 0 B.C.E.)

In the evening, guests are served multi-course Japanese-style cuisine in private alcoves.

Exterior view of Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku on the river hot spring

Courtesy of Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku

The river hot spring at Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku

Courtesy of Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku

The river hot spring at Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku

Courtesy of Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku

Interior of a room at Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku

Courtesy of Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku