Nyuto Onsenkyo
Nyuto Onsenkyo is a renowned hot spring town located in the mountains of northern Semboku City, Akita Prefecture, Japan. It is part of the Towada-Hachimantai National Park and is known for its rustic and secluded hot spring resorts, which have been attracting visitors for over 350 years.
Overview
Nyuto Onsenkyo consists of seven distinct hot spring resorts, each with its own unique spring water source and mineral properties. These hot springs are reputed for their therapeutic benefits, believed to help ward off sickness and provide relaxation. The name "Nyuto Onsen" translates to "nipple hot spring," derived from the shape of the nearby Mount Nyuto.
Hot Spring Resorts
The seven hot spring resorts in Nyuto Onsenkyo include:
- Tsurunoyu: The oldest and most famous inn, known for its traditional and rustic atmosphere.
- Myonoyu: Located in a mountain stream with a rich Japanese modern atmosphere.
- Kuroyu Onsen: Known for its disease-curing hot spring.
- Kaniba Onsen: A deep mountain inn with a separate outdoor bath.
- Magoroku Onsen: A protected hot spring inn and mountain medicinal spring.
- Ogama Onsen: A nostalgic wooden school building with modern facilities.
- Kyuka-mura Nyuto Onsen-kyo: A modern facility in a beautiful beech forest.
Access and Transportation
Nyuto Onsenkyo is accessible by bus from Tazawako Station on the JR Akita Shinkansen Line, with a journey time of about 40 minutes. For those traveling by car, it is approximately 70 minutes from Morioka IC on the Tohoku Expressway via National Route 46 and 341.
Visitor Information
Visitors can purchase a Yumeguri Map for 600 yen, which allows unlimited rides on the Yumeguri-go shuttle bus for one day. Additionally, a Yumeguri-cho booklet is available for 1,800 yen, covering bathing fees for all seven hot springs. These passes can be purchased at the front desk of each inn.
Nyuto Onsenkyo offers a unique and tranquil experience, combining the natural beauty of the Towada-Hachimantai National Park with the therapeutic benefits of its historic hot springs.