Head to the hidden hot springs of Japan's Tohoku region for a unique co-ed bathing experience at Nyuto Onsen

Among Japan’s many hot springs, Nyuto Onsen in Akita Prefecture is not only the most popular open-air bath but also piques curiosity with its distinctive name. In the midst of winter, soaking in this warm, secluded hot spring paradise while quietly admiring the snow-covered scenery is a top winter travel choice for those seeking a traditional Japanese experience.

The unique name of Nyuto Onsen comes from a nearby mountain that resembles the shape of a breast, hence the name "Nyuto" (breast) Mountain. Located in the mountains, the approach to Nyuto Onsen via winding roads makes you feel as if you’re heading to an incredible hidden realm. Unlike other Japanese hot spring towns where spring sources are channeled to various inns, Nyuto Onsen features seven different hot springs, some with two to three different sources. It’s recommended to purchase a bathing pass for the hot spring village to enjoy the variety of water types.

The oldest hot spring in Nyuto is Tsurunoyu, a co-ed bath known for its milky white waters and ranked as one of the most popular open-air baths. This inn, which still retains architecture from the samurai era 350 years ago, features independent rooms called "Honjin" with traditional northeast Japanese hearths, attracting many visitors looking for a historical experience. Another spot, Kaniyama Onsen, with five baths, draws bathers with its open-air baths nestled deep in the forest by the stream. In snowy winters, walking the path to the open-air baths in snowshoes, with snow walls taller than people on both sides, offers a complete view of this hidden hot spring gem.

One particularly unique onsen in Nyuto is "Odagama Onsen," converted from an old elementary school building, which still retains the school’s corridors and has classrooms turned into rooms, offering a completely rustic atmosphere. The hot spring village also includes the popular "Nyuto-yu" inn, favored by many female guests. From the entrance to the dining area and rooms, the thoughtful touches of the owner are evident. Nyuto-yu offers two types of hot spring water—gold and silver—with different therapeutic effects, and their combination is said to have a synergistic effect. These can be enjoyed together in the co-ed open-air bath, along with views of a waterfall created by the stream’s drop in elevation.

About a 20-minute drive from the Nyuto Onsen village is the famous Lake Tazawa, whose nearly circular surface displays a clear, glassy blue hue. The nearby Lake Tazawa Ski Area not only offers slopes for all levels, from beginner to advanced, but also provides breathtaking views of the lake when taking the high-speed gondola to the middle station. This volcanic lake ski area offers a truly one-of-a-kind spectacular view.

Nyuto Onsen Village
Address: Tazawako, Senboku City, Akita Prefecture
Transportation: Take the Hokuroku Transportation bus bound for Nyuto Onsen from JR Akita Shinkansen “Tazawako” Station; the ride takes about 45 minutes.
Website: www.hana.or.jp/~nyuto/

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