Osaka Photo Gallery - Dorogawa Onsen

Dorogawa Onsen is a very traditional hot spring town deep in the mountains beneath Mount Omine. From Osaka, take the Kintetsu Line to Shimouchiguchi Station, which is on the same route as Yoshino, the famous cherry blossom viewing spot. Cross the street to the bus station for the rest of the way. The total journey time is about 3 hours with the bus ride taking an hour.

The town runs along the river with the hotels lined up along the main street. It is fairly quiet and serene here. You won't find any fast food restaurants or chain stores and the street becomes deserted by the late afternoon.

The Menfudo Shonyudo Limestone Cave is just above the town entrance near the bus station. The surrounding forests comprise of tightly-packed tall trees that are quite a sight already.

Pilgrims gathered at Ryusenji Temple before continuing the climb up to Mount Omine. With its name being "dragon spring", the dragon and snake feature prominently around the temple.

The typical visit to this remote corner is to stay overnight in an onsen hotel to soak in the hot spring water and enjoy 2 fancy meals. With a high elevation, this is a good place to escape the summer heat in the city.

Hotels along the main street would write down the names of their next guests on their welcome board.