An exceptional addition to our Kumano Kodo walking packages, Fujiya Ryokan offers hikers the ultimate restorative experience in the unique riverside village of Kawayu Onsen. Located right along the banks of the Oto River, this historic Japanese inn is world-famous for its geological wonder: natural, mineral-rich hot spring water that bubbles directly up through the gravel riverbed. After a challenging day conquering the steep mountain passes of the Nakahechi trail, walkers can grab a shovel to dig out their own personal thermal bath right in the river, or unwind in the ryokan's spacious indoor and outdoor pine-and-marble onsen baths. It provides the perfect, rejuvenating pitstop to soothe trail-weary muscles before continuing your spiritual journey.

The ryokan itself beautifully combines traditional alpine hospitality with essential modern comforts across its river-view rooms, offering both classic tatami-and-futon setups and Western-style bedding. To fuel your multi-day trek, the property serves exceptional, high-end kaiseki (multi-course) dinners featuring meticulously prepared regional delicacies, fresh sashimi, and hearty hotpots, followed by a generous breakfast the next morning. Complete with a highly convenient free shuttle service that transports guests straight back to the local Kumano Kodo trailheads and grand shrines, Fujiya Ryokan delivers a seamless, culturally immersive overnight stay that elevates any self-guided hiking itinerary.