It's like stepping into the bathhouse from "Spirited Away" – 5 Hidden Hot Spring Paradises in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan

▲ The exterior of Kamisaki Onsen resembles the bathhouse from "Spirited Away". (Photo provided by VISIT Tohoku Co., Ltd.)

Reported by Cai Wenjun / Compiled by HowToTrip

Soaking in hot springs is a must during the cold winter months. Nestled in Japan’s northeastern Tohoku region, Miyagi Prefecture is home to several quaint, serene, and lesser-known hot spring hideaways. Among them are spots that feel like you’ve stepped right into the world of "Spirited Away", with many nostalgic bathhouses even recognized as national heritage sites in Japan. This article selects 5 of Miyagi’s most enchanting hot spring retreats. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy a relaxing holiday, consider adding these to your list.

1. Kamisaki Onsen
With a history of over 600 years, Kamisaki Onsen is said to have gotten its name when local residents digging grass with sickles stumbled upon the hot spring. The area’s most famous ryokan, Yujyu Issen, has been registered as a national cultural property by the Japanese government. As soon as you step inside, it feels as if you’ve entered the world of the movie "Spirited Away".

Location: Shiroishi City
Transportation: Take the Tohoku Shinkansen to “Shiroishi-Zao” Station or take a taxi for 15 minutes from JR “Shiroishi” Station, or use the ryokan’s shuttle service.

▲ The Furoba (bathhouse) at Aoni Onsen. (Photo provided by VISIT Tohoku Co., Ltd.)

2. Aoni Onsen
With around 500 years of history, Aoni Onsen boasts stunning mountain views and a charming, nostalgic atmosphere. It gained fame as the personal hot spring of Date Masamune, the powerful warlord of the Tōhoku region during Japan’s Warring States period. In winter, Aoni Onsen hosts a one-of-a-kind “Snow Lantern Festival”, where over 2,000 snow lanterns are crafted in a park within the hot spring town, creating a magical sea of softly glowing lights.

Location: Kawasaki Town
Transportation: Take the Tohoku Shinkansen to “Shiroishi-Zao” Station or JR “Shiroishi” Station, then transfer to a bus bound for “Eniwa Onsen” and get off at “Miyagi Zao Royal Hotel” before taking a 15-minute taxi ride. Alternatively, use the ryokan’s “round-trip from Sendai Station” shuttle service.

▲ Traditional crafts can be enjoyed at Eniwa Onsen. (Photo provided by VISIT Tohoku Co., Ltd.)

3. Eniwa Onsen
Located at the foot of the Zao Mountain Range, “Eniwa Onsen” is known for world-famous natural landmarks such as Juhyo (tree ice) and Okama Crater, and is also famed for its skin-beautifying hot springs. In addition, the area is well known for its traditional crafts. Just a 10-minute walk from the hot spring town is the “Miyagi Zao Kokeshi Doll Museum”, where you can admire kokeshi dolls, one of the traditional crafts of the Tōhoku region.

Location: Zao Town
Transportation: Take a JR “Shiroishi” Station bus operated by “Miyagi Kotsu” to “Eniwa Onsen”, or take a highway bus from “Sendai” Station to “Eniwa Onsen”.

▲ The unique three-step hot spring experience at Goga Onsen. (Photo provided by VISIT Tohoku Co., Ltd.)

4. Goga Onsen
Goga Onsen offers a unique three-step hot spring experience: first is “tōyū” (splashing hot water on your body), next is “in’yū” (drinking the hot spring water), and finally “nyūyū” (soaking in the bath). Additionally, the kaiseki cuisine here is absolutely delicious, featuring high-quality ingredients such as plateau vegetables from Miyagi Zao, seasonal seafood from Sanriku, and award-winning ham and sausages. Visitors can enjoy a completely different hot spring experience along with the local traditional delicacies.

Location: Kawasaki Town
Transportation: From JR “Shiroishi-Zao” Station or JR “Shiroishi” Station, transfer to a bus heading to “Eniwa Onsen” and get off at “Miyagi Zao Royal Hotel”.

▲ At Tori-no-Umi Onsen, you can soak while enjoying ocean views. (Photo provided by VISIT Tohoku Co., Ltd.)

5. Tori-no-Umi Onsen
Tori-no-Umi Onsen is located beside a saltwater lake on the Pacific side of Miyagi Prefecture. Thanks to its unique geography, you can enjoy a visual feast surrounded by both mountain and ocean views while soaking in the hot springs. The top floor of the local ryokan features an open-air bath called “Tenkai no Yu”, where you can look east towards the Pacific Ocean, with views of the Ojika Peninsula or Kinkasan Island in the distance. To the west, you can gaze at the Zao Mountain Range. The scenery changes beautifully with the seasons, offering an experience you won’t find elsewhere.

Location: Watari Town
Transportation: After getting off at JR “Watari” Station, transfer to a municipal bus to “Watarai Onsen Tori-no-Umi Mae” and get off right away.