Experience the Best of Akita Yuze Onsen and Its Surroundings! Top Tourist Attractions You Should Visit

Have you ever heard of Yuze Onsen? Yuze Onsen is a hot spring with abundant water located at the border of Akita, Aomori, and Iwate Prefectures, with its source along the Yoneshiro River in Akita Prefecture. The name Yuze comes from the fact that hot water naturally wells up from the riverbed. Situated in Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture, the Yuze Onsen town is a small hot spring resort consisting of only five ryokan and hotels. Compared to well-known hot spring destinations such as Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma, Gero Onsen in Gifu, and Hakone Onsen in Kanagawa, it is not as widely recognized. However, along with Kawanaka Onsen in Gunma and Ryujin Onsen in Wakayama, Yuze Onsen is regarded as one of Japan's "Three Great Hot Springs for Beautiful Skin." In this article, we will introduce recommended sightseeing spots around Yuze Onsen that you should visit to fully enjoy the area.

◎ Immerse Yourself in the Beauty of Yuze Gorge!

A must-see attraction near Yuze Onsen is Yuze Gorge, featuring a 4.6 km scenic hiking trail that connects Yuze Onsen to Hachimantai Azusawa. Recognized as one of "New Akita 30 Scenic Views" and an official "Forest Therapy Road," this is a top-tier destination for nature lovers. The breathtaking view from Tengu Bridge is particularly famous.

Along the trail, you'll find Himekomatsu Pine, a lone tree growing on a steep cliff, and Jizo Rock, a naturally shaped rock resembling a Buddhist guardian. Autumn (October–November) is the best time to visit, as the valley bursts into a stunning display of fiery red and golden foliage.

◎ Unwind in the Beauty Hot Spring of Yuze Onsen!

◆ Shikisai Akita Zukushi Yuze Hotel

The most popular tourist-friendly hotel in the Yuze Onsen area is *Shikisai Akita-zukushi Yuze Hotel*. The hotel is connected by a corridor spanning both sides of the Yuze Gorge, allowing guests to enjoy scenic views of the gorge from their rooms, making it a favorite among visitors.

In April 2015, a new relaxation bath *Seseragi no Yu Nagomi*, featuring extensive use of local wood, was opened. Later that year, in December, the *Bijin no Yu* (Beautiful Woman’s Bath), known for its reputation of making bathers look two years younger, was renovated. This blend of traditional charm and modern amenities makes it a beautifully maintained hot spring inn. With its reputation for offering breathtaking views of Yuze Gorge, the onsen has received high praise. Visitors can also enjoy a day-use hot spring experience, making it a great spot to stop by during sightseeing and relax in the famous *Bijin no Yu*.

◆ Wagokoro no Yado Hime no Yu

Another recommended hot spring accommodation along with Yuze Hotel is Wagokoro no Yado Hime no Yu. It features Kissho no Yu, a bath with a garden view, and an open-air bath (rotenburo). Kissho no Yu is available from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM, while the open-air bath can be used from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM in the morning and from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM in the afternoon.

As a large-scale tourist hotel, it boasts a spacious and open lobby, lounge, and large communal baths. It is well-maintained while providing the warm hospitality unique to local hot spring resorts, making it popular among visitors. Guests can also enjoy a scenic view of the gorge from their rooms, and the hotel offers day-use bathing options.

◎ Three Recommended Spots to Experience Japan’s Industrial Heritage

◆ Osarizawa Mine

Discovered during the Nara period, Osarizawa Mine has a history spanning over 1,300 years until its closure in 1978 (Showa 53). It played a vital role in Japan’s modernization during the Meiji era and supported the country’s post-war economic boom.

Visitors can explore its history through various tour options. The Ishikirizawa Tunnel Course offers a 40-minute walk through Edo-period mining tunnels, while the Industrial Heritage Course provides a convenient bus ride to one of Japan’s largest former ore refinement sites.

◆ Kōrakukan

The Kōrakukan is a historic wooden playhouse built during the Meiji era, remaining intact without major modifications to this day. It was established in 1910 as a welfare facility for Kosaka Mine and continues to host kabuki performances and other shows.

Along with Kanamaru-za in Kagawa and Eirakukan in Hyogo, Kōrakukan is one of the oldest wooden playhouses in Japan that has never been relocated or reconstructed. It preserves many traditional features of Japanese theater, such as the hanamichi (flower path), suppon (trapdoor), and a rotating stage. This makes it a must-visit attraction for theater enthusiasts. It has been designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.

◆ Kosaka Mine Office

The Kosaka Mine Office is a stunning architectural gem that represents the beauty of Meiji-era offices. It is considered a must-visit for those interested in historical architecture.

Built in 1905 as the main office of Kosaka Mine, which once led Japan in mining production, it served as an active workplace for nearly a century until 1997. Today, it stands as an Important Cultural Property and a popular tourist destination. The exquisite design, showcasing the advanced engineering skills of the Meiji period, continues to captivate visitors.

A rental dress service is available, offering more than 100 outfits, including children's and men's wear. Visitors can bring their own cameras and take photographs inside the building, making it a perfect spot to create memorable experiences.

◎ Summary

Yuze Onsen and its surrounding areas are a hidden gem of tourism where you can experience the renowned "Bijin no Yu" (Beauty Bath), immerse yourself in the majestic nature of Yuze Gorge, and encounter the still-living modern culture. As we have introduced, there are various tourist attractions in the vicinity, including Yuze Gorge, which showcases the vast natural beauty of the Tōhoku region. Because of this, Yuze Onsen is also highly valued as a starting point for exploring nearby destinations. If you're looking for both a relaxing hot spring experience and sightseeing, while also wanting a peaceful retreat, Yuze Onsen is the perfect place. Be sure to visit at least once!