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Located in the centre of Senboku City, Tazawako, or Lake Tazawa is a mountainous town bordering Iwate Prefecture which attracts tourists year-round thanks to the iconic lake which bares the same name, the renowned hot spring waters of the Nyuto Onsen, and a variety of outdoor activities both in and out of the water. This is a place to take slow, take in the nature, and while you are at it, take a picture or two of the beautiful landscape.
Lake Tazawa is probably the biggest attraction in this part of Akita and especially so during the warmer months of the year. The area surrounding the deep waters of this crater lake (Japan’s deepest) is home to historical landmarks like the statue of Tatsuko, a legendary character in japanese folktales, and the imposing red torii gate of Goza-no-Ishi Shrine. Along with these striking sites, lakeside hotels, campgrounds, restaurants, and trails, are available regardless of the season and conveniently accessible either by car, bus, or bicycle. During the warmer months of the year, it is also possible to enjoy the lake waters on sightseeing boat tours, row boat, canoes, and even by taking a dip from a couple of small beaches.
The mountainous side of Tazawako is only a few minutes away and just as impressive as the water down below. The main reason to move away from the lakeside and up the winding road is the Nyuto Onsen Hot Spring Village. This onsen resort village is cradled in between hills and made up of seven different ryokans each with its own hot spring source and secluded from the urban world. Some of these ryokans, of which one of the oldest is Tsuru No Yu, have been around for centuries. Besides finding the perfect escape from everyday stress, these ryokans are a relaxing trip back into japan’s feudal past and can be enjoyed with an overnight stay or during a day visit. The Nyuto Onsen hot springs are also secluded from each other but are connected by a hiking trail, driving , or by the village’s own hot spring hopping bus.
The good times do not stop at Nyuto Onsen though. Not far from the hot spring village, Arupa Komakusa is an information centre, and the gateway to climbing Mount Komagatake. This is one of the highest mountains in Akita Prefecture, and if you love scenic (at a times challenging) climbs it is a must while in the area. The options are extensive in Tazawako and whatever you end up doing make sure to leave a few minutes to bask in the picturesque sunset scene from the Kuromoriyama Observation Deck.- Tatsuko statue
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3.5
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Nyuto Onsen - Tazawako Overview
2017.10.17
NAVITIME TRAVEL EDITOR