🔥 Nyuto Onsen is one of Japan’s most famous hidden hot spring resorts, nestled in the mountains of Semboku City, Akita Prefecture. Among its many traditional inns, Tsurunoyu is the most popular, known for its historic thatched-roof buildings and milky white sulfuric hot springs.
🏡 1. Tsurunoyu Honjin – A Historic Onsen Experience
Tsurunoyu has been a retreat since the Edo period, offering an authentic onsen experience. Its mixed-gender open-air bath is legendary, where you can soak in the milky white water surrounded by untouched nature.
🔥 The traditional irori (hearth) dining experience is another highlight. A must-try dish is the yam dumpling hot pot, a specialty of both Tsurunoyu Honjin and Yama-no-Yado. This hearty soup is filled with chewy yam dumplings, mushrooms, and vegetables, simmered over an irori fire, making it perfect for warming up during the cold winter months. Guests can also enjoy grilled river fish and locally sourced vegetables, creating a rich and hearty meal experience that reflects the region’s culture.
In addition to its famous mixed bath, Tsurunoyu also features private baths for those who prefer more privacy. These secluded spots allow visitors to fully unwind in a peaceful setting.
⭐ Why Choose Tsurunoyu Honjin?
✅ Authentic atmosphere with a thatched-roof building
✅ Famous mixed-gender open-air bath
✅ Traditional hearth-cooked local cuisine
✅ Private baths available for a more intimate experience
✅ Experience Japanese culture with an irori fireplace meal
⚠ Things to Note
⚠ Old-fashioned facilities due to its historic nature
⚠ Difficult access in winter – check transportation in advance
⚠ Can be fully booked early – reservation well in advance is recommended
⚠ Difficult to book – Reservations open six months in advance and can only be made by phone or via the official “Nihon Hitou wo Mamoru Kai” website (Japanese only). Foreign travelers may find it challenging to book without Japanese language skills. Booking through a Japanese travel agency is recommended.
🏨 2. Yama-no-Yado – A Comfortable Stay with Modern Touches
For those who prefer more comfort, Yama-no-Yado, a separate lodge from Tsurunoyu, is a great alternative. The building is newer, offering a more comfortable and spacious stay while still enjoying the Nyuto Onsen experience.
🚍 Access to the Famous Mixed-Gender Bath
Guests staying at Yama-no-Yado can take a 10-minute shuttle bus to Tsurunoyu’s famous mixed-gender open-air bath.
Additionally, Yama-no-Yado has its own indoor and open-air baths, allowing guests to relax without needing to travel. The atmosphere is more modern but still maintains a tranquil, traditional feel.
Following phots are indoor and open-air baths.
🔥 Traditional Irori Dining Experience
Like Tsurunoyu Honjin, guests at Yama-no-Yado can also enjoy the yam dumpling hot pot prepared over an irori fire. Sitting around the irori, you can experience a slice of traditional Japanese culture while enjoying a warm and satisfying meal.
⭐ Why Choose Yama-no-Yado?
✅ Newer, more comfortable facilities
✅ More budget-friendly than Tsurunoyu Honjin
✅ Private and open-air baths available on-site
✅ Easier accessibility compared to Tsurunoyu Honjin
✅ Enjoy irori dining with traditional yam dumpling hot pot
✅ Japanese booking sites often have availability – Even if international sites show no vacancies, Japanese-only platforms like Jalan.net might still have rooms available. Using Google Translate can help with the booking process.
⚠ Things to Note
⚠ Shuttle required (10-minute ride) to reach the famous mixed bath
⚠ Lacks the historic charm of Tsurunoyu Honjin
⚠ Can be less immersive for those seeking a traditional experience
📅 How to Book Nyuto Onsen Accommodations
🏡 Tsurunoyu Honjin – Difficult to book. Reservations open six months in advance and must be made by phone or via a Japanese-only website. Booking through a Japanese travel agency is recommended.
🏨 Yama-no-Yado – Some Japanese booking sites have availability even if international platforms do not. Jalan.net is recommended (use Google Translate for assistance).
🔗 Book Yama-no-Yado on Jalan.net: Click here to check availability and book
🍂 Best Seasons to Visit Nyuto Onsen
🍁 Autumn (Sep–Nov)
Enjoy breathtaking foliage while soaking in the onsen. Mid-to-late October is the peak season for colorful leaves. The contrast of red and golden leaves against the misty hot spring water creates an unforgettable view.
❄ Winter (Dec–Mar)
The ultimate snowy onsen experience! Tsurunoyu’s thatched roof covered in snow is like a fairytale setting. Soaking in the warm bath while surrounded by snow is a highlight of the season. However, due to heavy snowfall, some roads may be difficult to navigate, so plan accordingly.
🌿 Spring (Apr–Jun)
Less crowded, offering tranquil soaks in fresh green surroundings. This is a great time for those who prefer a more peaceful and serene experience. Wildflowers also begin to bloom around this time, adding a touch of color to the natural scenery.
☀ Summer (Jul–Aug)
A cool retreat from summer heat, also a great base for hiking adventures. Nearby trekking courses, such as the Nyuto Mountain trails, provide a chance to explore the untouched natural beauty of Akita.
🚗 How to Get to Yama-no-Yado
📍 Nearest Station: JR Tazawako Station
🚍 From Tazawako Station: Take the Nyuto Onsen bus (50 mins) to “Alpa Komakusa” stop, then transfer to the lodge’s shuttle bus (10 mins, reservation required).
❄ Winter access may be affected by snow, so check updates in advance.
🚶 For hikers: There are also walking trails connecting different hot spring inns, allowing visitors to enjoy a scenic route between the baths.
Which Nyuto Onsen Inn is Right for You?
🏡 For a traditional, historical experience → Stay at Tsurunoyu Honjin
💎 For a comfortable yet authentic stay → Stay at Yama-no-Yado
🥘 For a taste of traditional irori dining → Both Tsurunoyu Honjin and Yama-no-Yado
📅 For an easier booking experience → Yama-no-Yado can be booked via Japanese websites like Jalan.net (use Google Translate)
Enjoy your stay at Nyuto Onsen, one of Japan’s most breathtaking hot spring destinations! ♨
