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A Journey to Akita’s Famous Hot Springs and the Breathtaking Sight of Juhyo (Frost-Covered Trees)

Published: 2026-09-25 👁 100 views

Last updated 2026-09-25 — Akita Prefecture in Japan’s northeastern Tohoku region is famous for its heavy snowfall, and this year has been especially cold, with thick layers of snow creating a fairytale-like silver world. When visiting Akita, you simply must experience its renowned hot springs, which not only boast a history of over a hundred years,...

Akita Prefecture in Japan’s northeastern Tohoku region is famous for its heavy snowfall, and this year has been especially cold, with thick layers of snow creating a fairytale-like silver world. When visiting Akita, you simply must experience its renowned hot springs, which not only boast a history of over a hundred years—offering rejuvenating "beauty-enhancing" waters—and the famous Tsurunoyu in Nyuto Onsen, but there’s even a "Bear’s Hot Spring" that’s said to be so inviting even bears would want to soak in it.

The juhyo (frost-covered trees) of the Tohoku region leave a deep impression.

The Nyuto Onsen hot spring village has a history of over 300 years and is said to have more than ten different types of spring sources. It is known as one of Japan’s three great hidden hot springs. Among them, the oldest Tsurunoyu preserves its pristine natural scenery along with the healing ambiance of an Edo-period hot spring resort and its tradition of mixed-gender bathing. Recently, it gained fame after being featured as a filming location for the Korean drama “IRIS.”

Akita, known for producing beautiful people, is home to Yunotaira Onsen in the Kazuno area—the site of one of Japan’s three great beauty-enhancing hot springs. In addition to providing relaxation, it also offers skin-beautifying benefits. Moreover, the Ogata Onsen, which has been in operation for 800 years, is said to have healed even injured bears, hence earning the nickname “Bear’s Hot Spring.” In the bathhouse “Arasenoyu,” there is a large rock believed to have been used exclusively as a "chair" for bears when they soak—a truly unique feature.

The hidden hot spring featured in the Korean drama “IRIS”—Tsurunoyu.

When visiting Japan’s Tohoku region, the stunning juhyo (frost-covered trees) at Morioka Ski Resort on Mount Moriyoshi are a must-see natural wonder. These naturally-formed phenomena, shaped by seasonal winds, come in countless unique forms—even resembling humans, animals, or monsters. The vast expanse of juhyo is truly breathtaking and considered a “national treasure” by the Japanese. The best season for viewing is from February to March. Interested travelers can check out tour packages from major travel agencies such as Lion Travel, H.I.S., and Klook.