A 7-Day TOUHOKU Adventure: Unwinding in Tazawa
- MaiRie
- Jan 15, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 27, 2024
In the first part of this series, I have shared about the first day of our trip, exploring the lesser-known destinations in Aomori.
On my first visit to Akita, I explored Kakunodate's preserved Samurai district while attempting to visit every prefecture in Japan. During that time, I had limited time to visit other places as I had to catch the earliest train to Iwate the next day. As a revenge trip, I am really excited to see its beauty in winter.
Rediscovering Akita
About Akita
Akita is a prefecture located in the northern region of Japan and is known for its hot springs, natural scenic beauty, and well-preserved samurai district. It is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
Access: From Hirosaki City to Tsuru no Yu
It takes about three hours to drive from Hirosaki to Tazawa. We were fortunate to have clear skies when we departed at noon, which enabled us to travel faster before the snow started to fall. The weather was fine until we entered the mountains of Akita, where the roads became more slippery. Due to the heavy snow, we had to slow down and drive with zero visibility. It all got worse as we got closer to Tsuru no Yu.
Explore
Tsuru no Yu Tsurunoyu Onsen is one of eight onsen of Nyuto Onsen. It is the oldest and renowned for its milky outdoor baths that offer a therapeutic experience with snowy scenery. Back in the day, the second lord of Akita, Yoshitaka Satake, and Iwashiro Kameda visited for therapy.
The road leading to the onsen was very narrow and slippery, to the point that our car would slide and turn, which delayed our arrival. At this point, I thought that coming by bus during winter is better for safety reasons.
Gentlemen helping us to get out
We caused some traffic, but the locals were kind enough to guide us out of the mess. Unfortunately, we couldn't make it to the day-trip visitor hours for bathing time, but we still enjoyed some of the beautiful snow facade before leaving for our hotel.
Getting there
If you plan to visit, I recommend going by car as it helps you access other places easily - Consider this option only if you have experience driving in snowy conditions.
While it may sound like a considerable three-hour drive, there is no direct train transportation from Hirosaki City to Tsuru no Yu. In this case, I recommend going down to Morioka(Iwate), where you can take a train to Tazawako Station, which takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
(JR) Morioka Station → Tazawako Station
(Bus) Tazawako Station → Arupa Komakusa/Alpa Komakusa(Nyuto Hot Spring bound)
While Google might tell you to go to Tsuru-no-yu Hot Spring Iriguchi and walk 43 minutes, it is better to take the bus to Arupa Komakusa instead, as the hotel suggested. So when you arrive at Tazawako Station, make sure to inform the hotel of your bus time, and their shuttle bus will pick you up at the Arupa Komakusa bus stop.
Tsuru no Yu
Day trip spa: ¥700 yen
Hours: 10AM~15PM (except Mondays)
Reservations: not required
Phone: 0187-46-2139
Official Website: http://www.tsurunoyu.com/english.htm (English)
More info: https://tazawako-kakunodate.com/en/shops/192
Other Ryokan of Nyuto Onsen
Tsuru no Yu Onsen - Yamanoyado
Tae no Yu Onsen
Kuroyu Hot Springs
Ganiba Onsen
Magaroku Onsen
Ogama Onsen
Kyukamura Nyuto Onsenkyo
Where to Stay: Stay in a resort near Lake Tazawa
Tazawako Lake Resort & Onsen
Tazawako Lake Resort & Onsen provides the perfect base for exploring the natural beauty of Akita's Lake Tazawa, Hachimantai mountain ranges, Dakigaeri Gorge, and the historic samurai town of Kakunodate. We enjoyed a diverse menu of delicious local dishes and delicacies at the buffet-style restaurant and then unwind our tired muscles in the natural hot springs after a long journey from Aomori. Our spacious room offered a breathtaking view, perfect for our second night. It is a simple yet comfortable space that caters to our needs.
Tazawako Lake Resort & Onsen
Website: https://tazawako-lakeresort.com/
Driving around Lake Tazawa
Facts about Lake Tazawa
Lake Tazawa is a stunning natural wonder in Japan, known for being the deepest lake in the country. Due to its depth, the lake never freezes, even in winter. During the cold season, the blue water contrasts beautifully with the white snow-covered mountains and lakeside, creating a breathtaking scene. Additionally, the lake is famous for a Japanese legend about a girl named Tatsuko who wished to keep her beauty forever. According to the legend, she became a dragon and threw herself into Lake Tazawa. It is also considered one of the 100 most scenic spots in Japan.
Kansagu (Ukiki Shrine)
The next morning, we started our day before sunrise. As we drove to Gozanoishi Shrine along Lake Tazawa, we stumbled upon this tiny shrine sitting at the edge of the lake. Nestled amidst snow-capped mountains, it boasts a picturesque lake view.
This shrine was originally known as Yujiri Myojin, but it was later renamed Kansagu by Masudo Soshu, who was a Confucianist, poet, and Minister of Finance of the Kubota domain from 1726 to 1777. It is also known as Ukiki (Drift Wood) Shrine because it is dedicated to a large tree that drifted to this spot.
Statue of Tatsuko
Nearby, you will see a beautiful golden statue of Tatsuko standing in the lake, contrasting the colors of the mountains.
Access:
By Bus: Tazawako Station → Katajiri (Lake Circular Line, Clockwise)
Gozanoishi Shrine
On the other side of the lake is another must-visit torii. Gozanoishi Shrine's striking vermilion torii gate stands stunningly contrasted against the white snow blanket, leaving us in awe. This spot is picturesque and offers a breathtaking view of the fantastic nature of Akita- and I couldn't help but wear a kimono and hold a wagasa! Unfortunately, it was warm that morning, and the snow on the gate had fallen before we arrived.
Access:
By Bus: Katajiri → Goza-no-ishi Shrine (Lake Circular Line, Clockwise)
Lake Tazawa is a must-visit destination that offers not only relaxing hot springs and scenic mountain views but also skiing at Tazawa Ski Resort.
Maps
The scenery around the lake was breathtaking with the snow. It was a dream come true to have such a winter experience in Akita. I couldn't take my eyes off the beautiful lake as the snowy mountains reflected on its surface. We left for Ginzan Onsen, but the stunning view of the lake stayed with me.
See you on part 3!
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