Nyuto Onsenkyo

On the northern foot of Mount Akita-Komagatake, embraced by the beech forest of Towada-Hachimantai National Park, lies Nyuto Onsenkyo. Seven inns including Tsuru-no-yu, Taenoyu, and Kuroyu each draw on their own source spring, and the waters range from milky white to clear. It is truly a hidden village of seven distinct baths.

Highlights

The oldest, Tsuru-no-yu, is said to have welcomed the lord of the Akita domain for healing in the Edo period. The thatched main hall paired with the cloudy sulfur open-air bath makes for a striking scene. Many inns offer day-use bathing, and a bath-hopping pass lets you sample several springs.

Enjoying the Seasons

The beech forest wraps the pools in fresh green and autumn color in spring and fall, while winter brings the famous snow-viewing baths. Soaking in an open-air pool buried in deep snow is unforgettable.

Access and Basic Information

About 50 minutes by Ugo Kotsu bus from JR Tazawako Station. By car it is reached from the Morioka or Omagari direction; check road conditions in winter.

A Quick Tip

The Yumeguri-go shuttle bus lets you tour all seven baths without a car. For a quiet soak, aim for early morning.