Introducing Sukayu Onsen and Nearby Tourist Spots in Aomori Prefecture

Sukayu Onsen" is a hidden hot spring inn located on the mid-slope of the Hakkoda Mountain Range in Aomori Prefecture, an area known for heavy snowfall. The difficult-to-read place name "Sukayu" is pronounced as "Sukayu." As the name suggests, the hot spring features milky white, acidic sulfuric water that springs forth at an altitude of over 900 meters.

This article focuses on Sukayu Onsen, nestled in the Towada-Hachimantai National Park, and introduces nearby volcanic-origin tourist attractions, wetlands and marshes where you can enjoy alpine flora, the Tohoku University Botanical Garden, as well as other highlights like Jogakura Bridge and the Hakkoda Ropeway, renowned for their autumn foliage.

What is Sukayu Onsen?

Located about an hour's drive from JR Aomori Station, Sukayu Onsen is a hot spring inn nestled on the western slope of Mount Odake, the main peak of the northern Hakkoda mountain range. With over 300 years of history, this sulfur hot spring holds the distinction of being Japan's first designated "National Recreation Hot Spring Area." Sukayu Onsen is a large-scale single inn deep in the mountains, featuring both a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) building and a therapeutic bathing facility. Day-use bathing is also available.

The highlight of Sukayu Onsen is the "Senjin-buro," an enormous cypress bath made entirely of Aomori Hiba wood. Designated as Aomori Prefecture's symbolic tree, Aomori Hiba is a fragrant cypress species also known as "Hinoki Asunaro." Despite its vast size of 160 tatami mats, this grand bath has no supporting pillars!

The bath features several pools: "Atsu no Yu" (Hot Water) is surprisingly lukewarm but boasts excellent heat retention properties. "Shiburoku-bun no Yu" (Four-Sixths Bath) is warmer than Atsu no Yu, with its name derived from its moderate warming effect. "Shika no Yu" (Deer Bath), a waterfall bath, is named after the legend of deer healing their wounds there. A cold spring bath, "Hie no Yu" (Cold Water Bath), serves as a refreshing finishing soak.

Senjin-buro is generally mixed-gender, but partitions and optional bathing garments provide privacy, particularly for women. A one-hour women-only time slot is available daily from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. and p.m., making the bath accessible even for those hesitant about mixed bathing.

In addition to Senjin-buro, the inn offers separate gender baths called "Tama no Yu" for those seeking a more private experience.

This charming hot spring attracts numerous visitors from all over the country, including those seeking therapeutic treatments and tourists. At Sukayu Onsen, a variety of options are available, ranging from day trips to long-term stay plans tailored for therapeutic guests.

Surprisingly for a remote mountain retreat, the meals here are exceptional. Dinner is thoughtfully prepared, and breakfast is a varied buffet. A stay that includes two meals allows guests to fully enjoy both the hot springs and local sightseeing.

Sukayu Onsen is accessible by JR Bus from JR Aomori Station or JR Shin-Aomori Station in about 80–100 minutes. For overnight guests, a free shuttle bus is available from JR Aomori Station—contact the inn for details. The surrounding area offers opportunities for sightseeing and hiking, with nearby spots easily reachable on foot or as a base for mountain climbing.

1. Jigoku-numa (Hell Pond)

Just a short walk from Sukayu Onsen along the national highway towards Lake Towada lies Jigoku-numa, a pond with a dramatic name that translates to “Hell Pond.” This crater lake, formed by a massive volcanic explosion 800 years ago, is filled with high-temperature, highly acidic hot spring water, making it uninhabitable for fish. You can approach the edge of Jigoku-numa, but it’s risky—please avoid stepping into dangerous areas.

The Hakkoda Volcano began its activity roughly 1.1 million years ago, and even today, volcanic gases like steam and hydrogen sulfide are emitted in various places. The nature trail connecting Sukayu Onsen to Jigoku-numa features barren lands where volcanic activity can be observed. Despite its intimidating name, Jigoku-numa is surprisingly approachable and offers a pleasant walking experience. It’s an excellent spot for a quick stroll, especially if you’re looking to stretch your legs after a relaxing soak at Sukayu Onsen.

2. Manju Fukashi (Warmth Like Steamed Buns)

A little further downhill from Jigoku-numa, across the national highway, you’ll find Manju Fukashi, a delightful and unique spot perfect for relaxation. This place gets its name from the idea of warming your backside, much like steaming a bun. The small gazebo features wooden benches with hot spring water heated to approximately 95°C flowing through their interior.

Sitting on the benches, you may initially hesitate due to the heat, but you’ll quickly discover it’s soothing and just the right amount of warmth. However, seasonal factors and clothing may make it too hot, so proceed with care to avoid burns while you enjoy the quirky experience of “becoming a manju.” Manju Fukashi is an excellent spot to feel the volcanic activity near Sukayu Onsen.

3. Tohoku University Botanical Garden

From Manju Fukashi, you can follow a scenic trail leading to the Tohoku University Botanical Garden’s Hakkoda Subgarden. Cross a charming wooden bridge over a babbling brook, and you’ll find yourself immersed in the botanical garden. Visitors are welcome to roam freely, making this a pleasant route to return towards Sukayu Onsen.

While the garden includes signposts, it’s a good idea to photograph the map near the entrance (on the Manju Fukashi side) for reference. The trail features various alpine plants, with detailed explanations to enhance your experience. As you explore, take your time to snap pictures and appreciate the natural beauty. Keep in mind that this botanical garden remains largely untouched, and the trails are minimally maintained, so sturdy footwear like sneakers is essential.

4. Sukayu Information Center

To return to Sukayu Onsen after exiting the Tohoku University Botanical Garden Hakkoda Mountain Branch onto the national road, take a left. Just before reaching Sukayu Onsen, you’ll find the Sukayu Public Parking Lot, which houses the “Sukayu Information Center,” a facility showcasing information about Sukayu Onsen and Hakkoda Mountain.

This center features captivating photo displays and scale models that offer a comprehensive understanding of Hakkoda Mountain’s landscape. Additionally, various brochures and leaflets are available, making it an ideal place to stop for travel insights.

5. Hakkoda Ropeway

The Hakkoda Ropeway, a 101-passenger cable car operating year-round, is popular for both scenic sightseeing and as a ski lift for Hakkoda Ski Resort during winter. Ride the ropeway to reach the summit of Mount Tamoyachi in the northern Hakkoda Mountains, where you can explore the pristine wetlands and serene ponds, immersing yourself in the beauty of nature.

At the summit station, visitors can relax in an indoor observation room or head to the rooftop observation deck on clear days for panoramic views. From this vantage point, you can marvel at the vast Hakkoda Mountain range, Mount Iwaki, Aomori City, and even the Tsugaru and Shimokita Peninsulas.

The wetlands atop Mount Tamoyachi feature a network of walking paths shaped like the number “8,” nicknamed the “Hakkoda Gourd Line.” The shorter loop takes roughly 30 minutes, while the full trail can be completed in about an hour, making it a perfect choice for a leisurely yet rewarding hike. The summit station also offers a café, restaurant, shop, and accessible facilities for all visitors.

The ropeway serves as a base for trekking, connecting to trails like the “Kenashi Paradise Line” leading to Sukayu Onsen, or the “Odake Mountain Route,” a full traverse to Sukayu Onsen. Conveniently, the ropeway is only a 10-minute drive from Sukayu Onsen along the Hakkoda-Towada Gold Line.

6. Jogakura Bridge

The Jogakura Bridge, renowned for its breathtaking autumn foliage, is a must-visit viewpoint located about 5 minutes by car from Sukayu Onsen toward Kuroishi. Spanning 255 meters—the longest arch span in Japan—the bridge stretches 360 meters in total and rises a striking 120 meters above the gorge, making it a masterpiece of engineering and a gateway to stunning views of the Hakkoda Mountains.

Beneath the bridge, the Jogakura Stream carves through the gorge, creating a picturesque scene. The best time to visit is during autumn when the surrounding mountains are ablaze with vivid hues of red, orange, and yellow—a highlight of any trip to the Sukayu Onsen area.
Constructed in 1995, the Jogakura Bridge not only offers unrivaled views but also serves as a vital connection between the Tsugaru and Nanbu regions. Its ever-changing seasonal beauty makes it a beloved spot for both first-time and returning visitors.

7. Suiren-numa (Water Lily Marsh)

Located in the wetlands surrounding the Hakkoda Mountains in Aomori Prefecture, Suiren-numa is a tranquil destination just a 10-minute drive along National Route 103 from Sukayu Onsen toward Lake Towada. The name "Suiren-numa," or Water Lily Marsh, originates from the wild growth of Ezo Hitsuji-gusa (a species of water lily) in the area.

From the "Suiren-numa" bus stop, a short walk up a staircase takes you through a lush habitat where plants like Baikamo and Ootachitsubosumire thrive. It won’t be long before you encounter this hidden gem of the Sukayu Onsen area.

The wetlands around Suiren-numa are equipped with wooden paths, railings, and viewing decks for a safe and immersive experience. Relax as you admire the serene beauty of Suiren-numa and the surrounding Hakkoda landscape. Early June is the ideal time to visit, as the wetlands come alive with blooming Mizubasho (Asian skunk cabbage). Following this, visitors can enjoy Renge Azalea, Watasuge, and in summer, the delicate blossoms of Ezo Hitsuji-gusa. Autumn is equally spectacular with vibrant foliage painting the landscape.

Whether you’re seeking peace and quiet or an escape into nature’s embrace, Suiren-numa is an excellent choice. Breathe in the crisp mountain air and unwind with stunning views of the shimmering marsh and majestic peaks.

8. Hakkoda’s Iconic Snow Corridor

National Route 103, famously known as the "Hakkoda-Towada Gold Line," links Aomori City to Lake Towada, passing through spectacular mountainous terrain. Sukayu Onsen, located in one of Japan's most well-known heavy snowfall regions, sits along this route. While the stretch from Aomori City to Sukayu Onsen is open year-round, the 8-kilometer section between Hakkoda Hotel and Yachi Onsen is closed during winter due to extreme snow conditions.

Each April, as winter draws to a close, this seasonal road reopens, transforming into the awe-inspiring "Snow Corridor." Drivers can marvel at the towering walls of snow—reaching heights of 5 to 10 meters—that line the route, creating a magical and unique driving experience.

During the winter months, attractions like Suiren-numa and Sarukura Onsen within this area are also inaccessible. However, despite its winter closure, Sarukura Onsen continues to supply its abundant hot spring water to the nearby Oirase area throughout the year.

◎Exploring Sukayu Onsen and Nearby Attractions

Sukayu Onsen, located in Aomori City, offers more than just an exceptional hot spring experience. The surrounding area is a haven for nature lovers, featuring a wealth of attractions ranging from volcanic landscapes to alpine flora. A short stroll reveals stunning views and unique natural wonders, while a quick drive or bus ride connects you to highlights such as the Hakkoda Ropeway, Jogakura Bridge, and Suiren-numa.

Access is convenient, with a 70-minute bus ride from JR Aomori Station or the option to drive with ample parking available. Whether you’re planning a getaway or looking for inspiration for your next trip, Sukayu Onsen is a perfect choice for relaxation and exploration.