Head to the legendary hometown of Japanese ghosts and gods, and enjoy the hot springs of Ogachi Onsen.

Japan has many hot spring towns, and besides their uniquely named thermal waters, the distinctive local culture and rural charm are also major draws for travelers. The Oga Peninsula in the Tohoku region is famous for its ghost and god legends. In addition to hot spring bathing experiences with sea views, the unique and traditional folk event "Namahage" is also a key tourist attraction of Oga.

The Oga Onsen area has been a beloved hot spring destination since the Edo period. After the opening of the first hot spring inn in Showa 28 (1953), various hotels and ryokans gradually moved in, establishing it as a nationally renowned hot spring town. Due to its proximity to the Sea of Japan, the spring water in Oga Onsen is a chloride spring, containing salt similar to seawater. The salt that adheres to the skin after bathing helps retain body heat, which is why it is also called "the hot soup."

Each ryokan in the hot spring town has its own unique features. Among them, the open-air bath "Ishiyama-no-Yu" at Oga Hotel offers sea views, and in spring, you can even enjoy stunning cherry blossoms blooming right by the bath. Another option, Oga Grand Hotel, attracts guests with its blend of modernity and traditional Japanese aesthetics, where carefully folded paper cranes can be seen everywhere, reflecting the hotel's thoughtful touches. When visiting the Oga Peninsula, don't miss the unique "ishiyaki cuisine." Originally a hearty dish cooked on fishing boats using locally sourced ingredients, it transforms into a highly entertaining delicacy at the hot spring ryokans.

The local traditional Namahage Museum is also a cultural treasure of the Oga Peninsula. Rooted in traditional folklore, the Namahage are somewhat similar to the Nian beast in Chinese legends, but unlike the Nian, the Namahage are said to be the incarnations of mountain gods. Every New Year's Eve, people dressed as "Namahage" visit residents' homes on the Oga Peninsula to encourage children to study hard and respect their parents. The Namahage Museum provides a detailed introduction to this folk custom, and visitors can even try dressing up as a "Namahage" themselves—an unprecedented and amazing experience!

Phone: 0185-33-3101
Address: Oga Onsen, Kitaura, Oga City, Akita Prefecture
Transportation: From "Hagata" Station on the JR Oga Line, take the "bound for Nyudozaki" Akita Chuo Kotsu bus and get off at "Onsen Chuo." The ride takes about 40 minutes, or take a taxi for approximately 20 minutes.
Website: www.oga-hotel.com

Oga Grand Hotel
Phone: 0185-33-3000
Address: Yunomoto, Kitaura, Oga City, Akita Prefecture
Transportation: From "Hagata" Station on the JR Oga Line, take the "bound for Nyudozaki" Akita Chuo Kotsu bus and get off at "Oga Grand Hotel Mae." The ride takes about 40 minutes, or take a taxi for about 15 minutes.
Website: www.ogaonsen.com

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