Overview and Access to Nyuto Onsenkyo
Location of Nyuto Onsenkyo
“Nyuto Onsenkyo” is situated within the Towada-Hachimantai National Park in Semboku City, Akita Prefecture. It spans an altitude ranging from 600 to 800 meters and is characterized by its lush natural environment, surrounded by primeval beech forests. The natural beauty and tranquility captivate visitors, allowing them to enjoy the diverse landscapes throughout the four seasons.
Access
Here are the ways to access “Nyuto Onsenkyo”:
- By Train: Take the Akita Shinkansen (Tazawako Line) to Tazawako Station, then transfer to a bus for about 55 minutes. The bus passes by Lake Tazawa, and you can catch the bus heading to “Nyuto Onsen”.
- By Car: From National Route 341, take Akita Prefectural Route 127 (Komagatake Line), then Akita Prefectural Route 194 (Nishiyama Obo Nai Line).
- By Plane: From Akita Airport, use the Akita Airport Liner to get to Tazawako Station. Then transfer to a bus.
Attractions and Features of Nyuto Onsenkyo
Various Hot Springs with Different Water Qualities
“Nyuto Onsenkyo” boasts more than 10 unique hot spring sources, each offering different water qualities and health benefits at various inns.
For example, at “Tsurunoyu Onsen,” you can enjoy multiple types of hot springs such as white water, black water, middle water, and waterfall water. This is a unique experience rarely found in other hot spring areas.
Primeval Beech Forests and Natural Scenery
The onsen area is enveloped by primeval beech forests, offering spectacular views from outdoor baths that harmonize with nature. The winter snow scenery is especially magical, allowing visitors to soak in the hot springs while enjoying a white, snowy landscape. Each season presents a different beauty, providing a unique experience every time you visit.
Atmosphere of Traditional Hot Spring Resorts and Refreshing Effects
“Nyuto Onsenkyo” retains the charm and ambiance of a retro hot spring resort (“Toji-ba”). Here, you can escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and savor a sense of timeless relaxation. Historically used as a therapeutic hot spring resort, it is an ideal place for both mental and physical rejuvenation.
Introduction to Major Hot Spring Inns
“Tsurunoyu Onsen”
The oldest inn in “Nyuto Onsenkyo,” “Tsurunoyu Onsen,” has a prestigious history, having been visited by the feudal lords of Akita. It offers four types of hot springs: white water, black water, middle water, and waterfall water, each with different health benefits. The signature dish, “Yama no Imo Nabe” (mountain yam hot pot), is particularly popular, attracting many repeat visitors.
“Taenoyu Onsen”
Opened in 1952, “Taenoyu Onsen” features modern facilities. Here, you can enjoy two types of hot springs: “Kin no Yu” (golden water) and “Gin no Yu” (silver water), which are beneficial for skin problems and boosting immunity through increased body temperature. The outdoor bath, where you can listen to the babbling of the Sendatsu River, is also a major attraction.
“Ganiba Onsen”
“Ganiba Onsen” is known for its clear, colorless water that is gentle on the skin. The secluded outdoor bath allows visitors to enjoy the changing seasons while bathing, making it especially popular.
Other Hot Spring Inns
There are many other hot spring inns, including “Ogama Onsen,” “Magoroku Onsen,” “Kuroyu Onsen,” and “Kyukamura Nyuto Onsenkyo,” each with its unique characteristics and charms.
Nearby Activities and Tourist Information
Introduction to the “Yumeguri-cho” (Hot Spring Hopping Booklet)
When visiting “Nyuto Onsenkyo,” it’s recommended to use the “Yumeguri-cho,” a booklet available exclusively for staying guests. It allows you to enjoy a stamp rally-style tour of the various hot spring inns, experiencing different water qualities for an enhanced refreshing effect.
Winter Activities
In winter, “Nyuto Onsenkyo” offers snow trekking activities. You can stroll through the primeval beech forests, search for animal tracks, and enjoy various nature activities. After playing in the snow, warm up your body and soul in the hot springs.
Nearby Tourist Spots
The surrounding area of “Nyuto Onsenkyo” offers numerous famous tourist spots such as Lake Tazawa, Lake Towada, and Hachimantai. Enjoying these natural landscapes along with your visit to “Nyuto Onsenkyo” will make your trip even more fulfilling.
Official website: http://www.nyuto-onsenkyo.com/