Unazuki Onsen — Gateway Hot Spring to Kurobe Gorge

**Ryokan selection:** Unazuki's top ryokan include Enraku (延楽, luxury riverside property, ¥25,000–40,000/person, stunning gorge views and private rotenburo rooms) and Kurobe Kanko Hotel (黒部観光ホテル, mid-range, ¥18,000–28,000/person, excellent kaiseki meals and riverside location). Budget option: Unazuki Kokusai Hotel (宇奈月国際ホテル, ¥12,000–18,000/person, quality onsen at lower price). Book 1–2 months ahead for autumn foliage season (October–November) and weekends. **Day-use onsen:** For non-overnight visitors, Unazuki Onsen Sousaku (宇奈月温泉総湯, ¥700) is the public bathhouse offering full access to Unazuki's hot spring source. The facility has indoor and outdoor baths with river views. Bring towel and toiletries (rentals available ¥300). Combine with Kurobe Gorge Railway — bathe before or after the gorge train journey. Open 7:00–22:00 daily. **Yamabiko Promenade:** A 1.5km riverside walking trail (やまびこ遊歩道) follows the Kurobe River from Unazuki Onsen Station through town. The path features free footbaths (ashiyu) at multiple points, suspension bridges, and gorge views. The walk takes 30 minutes one-way and is especially scenic during autumn foliage (late October–early November). The promenade connects Unazuki Onsen Sousaku (public bath) with Kurobe Gorge Railway station. **Winter illumination:** Unazuki holds winter illumination events (December–February) featuring lights along the riverside and bridges. The cold mountain air contrasts with warm footbaths, creating atmospheric onsen town experience. The illuminations are modest compared to major cities but provide romantic, peaceful evening ambiance. Combine with ryokan stay for ultimate winter relaxation. **Combination with Kurobe Gorge Railway:** Most visitors combine Unazuki Onsen with the Kurobe Gorge Railway, which departs from Unazuki Onsen Station. Ideal itinerary: Take morning gorge train (depart 8:00–9:00), return by afternoon (15:00–16:00), then soak in onsen. Alternatively, stay overnight and take the train the next morning. Ryokan will hold luggage during the train journey.