It's not just about World Heritage Sites!: Japanese hotel in Nikko offers "pet-only hot spring"

▲ Pets can enjoy the fun of soaking in hot springs too. Look how happy it looks in the bath? (Photo / Screenshot from the internet)

Tourism Center / Comprehensive Report

For many pet owners, their furry companions are part of the family, and they want to bring them along "to broaden their horizons" wherever they go. As more and more pet owners request to travel with their pets, facilities in Japan such as museums, restaurants, karaoke bars, and even hotels have gradually started to allow pets. Among them, one hotel in Nikko even offers a pet-exclusive hot spring pool and an open-air bathhouse.

Located in Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan, this international cultural tourism city blends the beauty of nature with ancient shrines and temples. The shrines and temples of Nikko have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. When the azaleas bloom or the mountains turn crimson with maple leaves, the area attracts large crowds of flower and foliage enthusiasts. There is also the famous shrine "Nikko Toshogu," the burial site of Tokugawa Ieyasu and dedicated to him, whose quaint and weathered exterior is a must-see attraction when visiting Nikko.

%It boasts not only rich natural scenery but also profound cultural heritage, alongside famous temples (and see right image). (Photo / From Wikipedia)

Located near one of Nikko’s scenic spots, Kinugawa Onsen"Kinugawa International Hotel", has allowed pets to stay since 1986 and is one of the earliest hotels in Japan to welcome pets. The hotel adheres to the philosophy of "being together anytime!", offering spacious and comfortable rooms where owners and pets can eat, sleep, and go out together. There is also a pet-exclusive open-air bath and hot spring pool. If pets don’t want to be separated from their owners, the hotel also provides a family-use indoor bath, allowing owners and pets to wash away the day’s fatigue in a cozy space.

%The hotel especially sets up a pet-only open-air bathhouse in winter, ensuring your pet stays warm and comfy. (Image / FromKinugawa International Hotel fan page)

In addition, the hotel has specially set up a grooming salon for dogs, allowing pets to socialize and get to know each other, while owners can also bond. Moreover, the area surrounding the hotel boasts abundant natural mountain and forest resources, so owners can take their pets for a walk in the woods, breathe in the phytoncides, and enjoy a relaxing time.

However, the hotel also reminds guests to observe "pet etiquette." In addition to wiping the pets' paws before entering the premises, pets should be carried while walking inside the hotel. Large dogs must be kept on a leash. Also, please avoid letting pets "make loud noises" in the hotel, so everyone can help maintain a comfortable accommodation environment together.