[2025 Semboku Stay] Travel Guide for Tsurunoyu (Updated Mar)

Nestled in the Tohoku region of Akita Prefecture, Nyuto Onsen is a hidden gem known for its legendary hot springs. Among them, the 'Tsurunoyu' Onsen is the most famous, with its milky white waters. Booking a stay here can be challenging, so it's advisable to make reservations 4-6 months in advance. Nyuto Onsen boasts 10 different hot spring sources, each with unique colors such as brown, blue, white, and clear. 'Tsurunoyu' is particularly enchanting in winter when thick snow blankets the area, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere. With a history of over 300 years, 'Tsurunoyu' features traditional thatched-roof buildings. In addition to separate outdoor baths for men and women, there is also a mixed-gender outdoor bath. There are nine types of hot springs available, as shown in the last image. The milky white waters leave your skin feeling smooth and rejuvenated. This unique hot spring experience is truly memorable. Hotel Name: Tsurunoyu Bekkan Yama no Yado (10 rooms). Transportation: Take the Shinkansen to JR Tazawako Station, transfer to the 'Nyuto Line' bus for 40 minutes, get off at 'Arupa Kumakosa,' and take the hotel shuttle for 10 minutes to reach your destination. Address: 1-1 Tazawa Senzatazawa Yunodai, Tazawako, Semboku City, Akita Prefecture. #JapanTravel #HotSprings #Akita

Embark on a unique adventure at Tsurunoyu and Kaniyu Onsen, two hidden gems in the Nyuto Onsen area. To reach these secluded hot springs, purchase the Nyuto Onsen Tour Pass, available at local inns, and take the tour bus that conveniently drops you off at these locations. During our visit, we chose Tsurunoyu and Kaniyu Onsen for their enchanting mixed-gender baths surrounded by a snowy forest landscape. Upon arrival, we found the place empty, allowing us to capture some beautiful photos. However, as more visitors arrived, photography became impossible. Remember to bring a large towel for changing, as the dressing area is only shielded by a curtain. Embrace the experience with confidence, and remember, if you don't feel awkward, neither will others. We even encountered a fellow bather from Tsurunoyu again at Kaniyu Onsen, highlighting the friendly atmosphere. Overall, this was an extraordinary and highly recommended experience. #HotSpring #JapaneseOnsen #TravelTips

Located in Akita Prefecture, Nyuto Onsen is one of Japan's most renowned hot spring destinations. The area is famous for its abundant snowfall in winter and the milky white hot spring water that resembles milk. The healing properties of the hot springs attract many, and the legend says that locals discovered the area by following an injured crane. In Eastern culture, cranes symbolize purity and good fortune, which led to the name Tsurunoyu being passed down through generations, establishing the Nyuto Onsen area. Tsurunoyu, the oldest hot spring in Nyuto Onsen, offers an unparalleled experience. The main guesthouse retains its thatched roof, preserving the Edo period's 'healing spa landscape.' The old buildings have not been upgraded or expanded, maintaining the simple appearance of the original healing huts, providing a rustic hot spring experience deep in the mountains. The 15th-generation operator, Kazushi Sato, states, 'We have never disrupted the atmosphere of hot spring therapy here, and we haven't invested unnecessary money in facilities, so the prices are very affordable. (Note: Accommodation costs about 510 RMB per night) The price is the same year-round, whether it's a weekend or New Year's, which is why Tsurunoyu is so popular.'

Start your 2024 with a unique experience at Nyuto Onsen, known for its mixed-gender baths frequented by both locals and tourists. Nyuto Onsen consists of seven hot springs, but the standout is "Tsurunoyu," which is more of a tourist attraction compared to the others, which are regular hot spring inns. Tsurunoyu features traditional wooden houses and offers lodging, dining, and hot spring bathing, though reservations can be challenging. Day visits are recommended. Upon entering the oldest hot spring, you might be surprised to see a mixed-gender pool, with an elderly man casually walking by. Tickets are purchased at the office for 700 yen, but there's no ticket check, relying on honesty. The largest pool is mixed-gender, surrounded by a simple fence, with a basic changing area. There are no showers or toiletries, and the water is milky white, smooth, and not too hot, making for a pleasant experience. Other hot springs are more conventional inns. For example, "Myojin" is affordable and popular, but closes early for day visits. "Kuroyu" and "Sunroku" are closed in winter. The "Resort" is modern, so it might not appeal to those seeking traditional experiences. "Kaniyu" and "Daifu" are closer options, with Daifu offering a rustic experience run by an elderly couple. The water is thick and yellow, with a strong sulfur smell that lingers. In summary, transportation can be tricky without a car, and snow tires are necessary. Tsurunoyu offers soft water, while Daifu's is hard, providing distinct experiences. It's a worthwhile cultural experience, though not essential due to limited nearby attractions. #NyutoOnsen #JapanTravel #HotSprings

Having lived in Japan for many years, I recently visited the famous Nyuto Onsen Village for the first time. The journey isn't the most convenient, as it requires taking a bus from Tazawako Station after the Shinkansen, and for Tsurunoyu, an additional shuttle bus or a 38-minute walk is needed. Accommodations are also hard to book and not very cost-effective. However, this has allowed the hot springs to retain their natural charm, making them a hidden gem. The remote location even led to two bear sightings on the way. Tsurunoyu, the oldest onsen in the area, features a beautiful light blue outdoor bath with a slightly lower temperature, offering a delightful experience amidst the snow. The indoor black bath is perfectly warm, while the white and medium baths are slightly hotter. The mixed-gender outdoor bath is almost completely open, which I didn't dare to try. For those staying in Nyuto Onsen Village, it's recommended to purchase the Yumeguri Pass, which allows access to all seven hot springs and includes free shuttle bus rides, valid for a year. #JapanTravel #JapanLife #Onsen #HotSpring #NyutoOnsen #Tsurunoyu

Calling all hot spring enthusiasts! Let me introduce you to a charming and lesser-known onsen, Tsuru-no-Yu, located in the Nyuto Onsen Village. This onsen is steeped in history, featuring entirely wooden structures in a traditional Japanese style. Among the four baths available, the 'White Bath' is a must-try, often referred to as the 'Beauty Bath' for its skin-smoothing effects, making it particularly popular among women. Transportation: Nestled in the mountains, Tsuru-no-Yu is not the easiest to reach. We opted for a self-drive trip, combining it with a skiing adventure at Lake Tazawa. For those using public transport, expect several transfers: JR Tazawako Station to Nyuto Onsen via bus, followed by a hotel shuttle. Scenery: The words 'wind, flower, snow, and moon' perfectly capture the essence of Tsuru-no-Yu. We were lucky to visit during a full moon, enjoying the serene experience of soaking in the hot springs while watching the snowfall. The tranquility is unmatched, with only the sounds of flowing water and falling snow to accompany you. Dining: The meals at Tsuru-no-Yu are simply outstanding, focusing on health and wellness, which might explain the longevity and slim figures of the Japanese. All ingredients are incredibly fresh, with dinner featuring seasonal grilled fish, a local yam hotpot, fragrant Akita rice, and an exquisite mushroom soba soup base. There's also a selection of sake. While breakfast is average, the fish served at both meals is exceptionally delicious, leaving a lasting impression long after returning home. #Onsen #JapaneseCuisine #HiddenTravelGems #Japan #SnowScenery

During the New Year holiday, I visited Nyuto Onsen Village in Akita, Japan, which is said to be a top choice for hot spring enthusiasts. Despite this year's mild winter, the snow in Akita's mountains was impressive. The village has seven inns offering both accommodation and day-use hot spring services. Day-use hours are generally short, and public transport is limited, so staying overnight is recommended for a more enjoyable experience. 🏠 Accommodation: I booked a room at Ogama Onsen through Agoda two weeks in advance, but managed to secure a room at Tsurunoyu Onsen a few days before departure by checking their website frequently. The cost for two people was around 2200 yen, including breakfast and dinner. The room was well-equipped, and the dinner was a lavish kaiseki meal. The service was impeccable, with staff providing traditional kneeling service. Based on reviews and my own experience, this inn offers the best service, while others are more rustic. The room included towels, a basket, a yukata, and warm clothing, along with a bamboo umbrella. Bath products were by Pola, and the scenery was perfect for photos. 🚗 Transportation: Due to limited bus services and safety concerns in snowy conditions, we opted for public transport. Here's a summary of the transportation options: To reach Nyuto Onsen Village, transfer at Tazawako JR Station (about 3 hours from Tokyo) and take a bus from Tazawako Station into the mountains. Buses go directly to Kyukamura, Tsurunoyu, Kuroyu, and Ogama. However, buses do not go directly to Tsurunoyu. There are two ways to reach it: 1) Purchase a loop bus ticket at any hotel front desk for 1000 yen, which allows multiple rides to and from Tsurunoyu and other hotels with Tazawako bus stops; 2) Use Tsurunoyu's own bus service, with a schedule available at the front desk. The last return bus on December 30, 2023, was at 15:20. Plan your time carefully if not driving, or face a 40-minute walk in the cold to the "Tsurunoyu Entrance" bus stop. ♨️ Hot Springs: I visited the three most scenic and highly-rated hot springs: Tsurunoyu, Kuroyu, and Kaniyu. Day-use prices are a few hundred yen, but towels and bath products are not provided. The focus was on outdoor baths with snowy views. Tsurunoyu: The most famous, with milky sulfur springs. It offers mixed bathing (no clothing allowed) and a women-only area. The women's outdoor bath has views as stunning as the mixed bath. Kuroyu: Offers a variety of pools, including a waterfall-view outdoor bath with yellow water. Mixed bathing is allowed with towels. Guests can reserve a private bath with a waterfall view. Kaniyu: Personally, the best scenery with clear water. The largest outdoor bath requires a walk through beautiful snowy terrain. It's a mixed bath with no clothing allowed, but we enjoyed a quick dip when it was less crowded. Overall, staying overnight in the onsen village is recommended for a leisurely experience. #Japan #HotSprings #TravelTips

Tsurunoyu Onsen is the oldest hot spring inn in the Nyuto Onsen Village, named after a local legend where a hunter found an injured crane healing its wounds in the hot water. The main building, Honjin, with its thatched roof, is iconic of Tsurunoyu. We stayed in the new Honjin, which offers a traditional Japanese room that is clean and simple. The rooms are quite similar, and none have private onsens, so there's no need to worry about room features. Being in the mountains, there's no signal, and Wi-Fi is unreliable, so we ended up sleeping early around 7 PM. The onsen offers natural hot springs with four different types of water: white, black, middle, and waterfall, each with a distinct sulfur scent. We experienced our first mixed-gender bath, which was initially daunting, but as it got darker and more women joined, it became less intimidating. For those who are shy, there's a women-only outdoor bath, which I found more comfortable. The falling snow was breathtaking, making it hard to leave the warm water. In the evening, the inn is beautifully lit by lanterns. Meals include mountain vegetables and the inn's original yam hotpot made with miso, grilled rockfish, and seasonal ingredients. The inn provides breakfast and dinner, as there's nothing else available in the mountains. Dinner is served in the room and includes fish, with limited meat and lots of mushrooms. If you have allergies, inform the inn in advance, as they can accommodate requests, like switching soba for udon. Breakfast is served in a communal area on the first floor, offering a rich Japanese experience. If you're not used to sitting on cushions, you can request chairs and tables, and they even provide forks for foreigners. The cost ranges from 9,000 to 16,000 yen per person, depending on room type, number of guests, and season. We booked a room for two at 29,700 yen with meals included, which was a lucky find as rooms are often booked months in advance. Tsurunoyu Onsen is part of the Japan Onsen Protection Association and a cultural heritage site, offering a unique Japanese experience. It's highly recommended for those who love mountain retreats and hidden gems. #JapanOnsen #NaturalHotSpring #NyutoOnsenVillage #Tsurunoyu #JapaneseMixedBathing #HiddenTravelGems #Akita

Akita's Snow Hot Springs ❄️Nyuto Onsen (Nyuto Onsen) Tohoku Region . Nyuto Onsen (乳頭温泉郷) is a hot spring town located at the foot of Towada Hachimantai National Park in Akita Prefecture. All 7 hot springs have minerals and hot spring sources that are mainly composed of sulfur mixed with calcium and magnesium. The color of the water in the hot spring and the properties for skin care are also different. . These 7 hot springs are all part of a ryokan. There are both day trips and overnight stays. For those who like hot springs, who don't like the cold I recommend visiting during the fall foliage season. But if you want to fully enjoy the atmosphere here, I recommend coming during the winter in Japan. ♨️7 Hot Springs in Nyuto Onsen ・Tsurunoyu (鶴の湯) ・Taenoyu (妙乃湯) ・Kuroyu Onsen (黒湯温泉) ・Ganiba Onsen (蟹場温泉) ・Magoroku Onsen (孫六温泉) ・Okama Onsen (大釜温泉) ・Kyukamura Nyuto Onsenkyo (休暇村湳頭温泉郷)

Akita Winter Guide☃️ 1-2. **Gozashi Shrine** This shrine is located on the shore of Lake Tazawa. It's especially beautiful when the torii is covered with snow❄️ 3. **Morikoshi Mountain** You can rent snowshoes and ski poles for free and get up close and personal with snow monsters! 4-5. **Namahage Shibatou Festival** Speaking of Akita, we have to mention 'Namahage（なまはげ）'! This festival is held every February at the Shinzan Shrine in Oga City. It looks like this year's reservations have already started. 6. **Crane's Soup Hot Spring** This is one of Japan's famous hot springs, located in the beautiful mountains of Akita Prefecture. This hot spring is famous for its clear lake spring water and spectacular natural scenery.♨️ 7. **Myonoyu** It is one of the seven hot springs of Nipple Hot Spring, about a 15-minute drive from the previously mentioned Crane's Soup Hot Spring. Although there is a mixed bathing pool, this time we mainly enjoyed the experience of a private hot spring. 8. **Akita Inland Line** It has seven cars, the colors are red, orange, yellow, yellow-green, light blue, dark blue, purple and a lucky color. 9-10. **Wa no I Kakunodate** This is a hotel converted from a historic warehouse. We stayed in the Bushigura (Bushigura) room, where there are various samurai tools that can be touched and felt.

Enjoy the snow scene, soak in the hot spring, and enjoy the banquet cuisine! In Akita, Northeast Japan, the mysterious Nipple Hot Spring Village, when covered with snow in winter, it's extremely comfortable to soak in the hot spring in the snow. - 🌟Nipple Hot Spring Village, one of the top secret hot springs, has a history of over 300 years. There are 7 hot spring inns distributed in the Nipple Mountain Forest, which can be reached within a 5-minute walk. You can take the shuttle bus in the hot spring village or walk along the natural trail. · 1️⃣Crane Soup The oldest hot spring in the area, the thatched roof 'Honjin' at that time, has also been changed into the accommodation for today's travelers, with a strong traditional Japanese atmosphere. It is said to be named 'Crane Soup' because a crane bathed there. ♨️Hot spring: 9 different hot springs such as indoor and outdoor atmosphere, separate or mixed bathing for men and women, black soup and white soup. 📍Address: 50 Tazawako Tazawa Sendai Tazawa National Forest, Semboku City, Akita Prefecture · 2️⃣Miao Soup The inn is built with a large amount of wood and stone, and the whole inn is filled with a strong wood scent, which is a secret soup that is very popular with female customers. It is very quiet and elegant. The dining place in the inn is also very elegant, where you can enjoy local Akita cuisine. ♨️Hot spring: There are two private hot springs of different quality, Gold Soup & Silver Soup, which can be used for free during the stay, and there is also a day return hot spring prepared for non-guest treasures. 🍣Meals: Arrange Akita local cuisine 📍Address: 2-1 Koma-ga-take, Seiho-uchi, Tazawako, Semboku City, Akita Prefecture