Hozuki, a summer tradition in Ikaho Onsen
Hozuki — lantern fruit — is one of Ikaho Onsen’s summer traditions. This year again, shops and inns have begun hanging them from their eaves, so guests can feel the season.
The plants sit in bamboo hanging baskets, with furin (wind chimes) dropping from the rims. Early-summer nights carry a soft sound that is hard to describe.
The welcome stays in place until about early August. One pleasure is watching the fruit color a little more each day.
Ikaho is at its best while the hozuki are out. You will see them along the Ikaho Stone Steps. A later note is Hozuki welcome in Ikaho Onsen.