Minakami

Takaragawa Onsen Osenkaku

Traditional ryokan with four outdoor baths; rooms ¥10,000–15,000 per person/night.

Tanigawadake Raspberry Youth Hostel

Dormitory ¥3,600–4,300; private rooms ¥4,700–5,200 per person; meals extra.

Etiquette

• Greeting: A small bow; a handshake if the other person offers; avoid: Hugs, back slaps, loud greetings
• Names: Family name plus -san; avoid: First names unless invited; adding -san to your own name
• Paying: Put money in the tray at the register; avoid: Tipping, or leaving loose cash for staff
• Trains: Queue at the floor marks, phone on silent, ask before reclining on the Shinkansen; avoid: Phone calls, eating on crowded commuter trains, blocking doors with bags
• Escalators: Stand on the side locals use — left in Tokyo, right in Osaka; stations now ask people to stand still on both; avoid: Stopping at the top or bottom
• Shoes: Off at the step-up entrance; toilet slippers only inside the toilet; avoid: Stepping on tatami in shoes or slippers
• Shrines: Rinse hands at the basin; bow twice, clap twice, bow once; avoid: Walking down the centre of the approach, which is for the deity
• Gifts: Offer and receive with both hands; bring a small omiyage for hosts; avoid: Sets of four; cash outside an envelope

Scams and watch-outs

• Avalanche risk on back‑country routes of Mt Tanigawa; only attempt with guide and approved plan.
• Winter climbing requires equipment and experience; many fatalities recorded.
• Cash is preferred; many shops do not accept foreign cards.