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For many a traveler, a trip to Japan is synonymous with hot spring resorts and the experience around taking a dip into the bathing tradition of this island nation. This without a doubt is one of most authentic and memorable experiences the country has to offer; but, when the dip happens to be in a natural hot spring waterfall from a source referred to as “hell”, the onsen experience goes beyond memorable to surreal.
![A Dip in the Natural Hot Spring Waterfall of Akita]()
A Dip in the Natural Hot Spring Waterfall of Akita
In Yuzawa City, the 100 degree sulfuric waters of Doroyu Onsen combine with a fresh water stream and form the Kawarage Oyutaki Falls, one of the hidden gems of Akita Prefecture. This off-the-beaten-path natural attraction is known mainly to locals as a place of worship. The Kawarage Hell as the arid mountain at the top of the site is known, is one of Japan’s great pilgrimage sites and has been visited for centuries, and the commanding Jizo statue, that greets visitors is a testament to that. But besides the mystical aspect, visitors from near and far come to enjoy the scenic views of the natural wonder and the soothing warm waters at the bottom of the waterfall available to bathers during the summer.
![A Dip in the Natural Hot Spring Waterfall of Akita]()
A Dip in the Natural Hot Spring Waterfall of Akita
Access to the waterfall is free and all you need to bring with you is a bathing suit and a towel. You can change at the top prior to making the descent, or you can take advantage of the rustic female and male changing rooms at the bottom. As the hike to the bathing area is a little steep and along a dirt trail, we recommend that you wear comfortable shoes. If you don’t mind hiking back up with a wet bathing suit, then changing back at the parking a lot might be more convenient especially during busy periods. Taking the dip in this unique hot spring is only possible during the summer months so plan for some crowds in the baths or try to schedule the adventure here either early morning or later in the afternoon.
![A Dip in the Natural Hot Spring Waterfall of Akita]()
A Dip in the Natural Hot Spring Waterfall of Akita
![A Dip in the Natural Hot Spring Waterfall of Akita]()
A Dip in the Natural Hot Spring Waterfall of Akita
Once at the bottom, all you’ll find is a 20-metre high waterfall and an abundance of pristine water that accumulates in four different pools before continuing its course down the stream. Two of those pools receive the falling water directly and are great if you want to add a strong shower to your bathing experience. The other two pools are much more calmer and the best spots to just sink in, take in the peacefulness of the environment and all the nutrients found in these waters. There is no time limit here, so you can hang around for as long as you want before it gets dark. It will feel even better if you get the pools all to yourself, but keep in mind you are in the middle of nature and having some company is not a bad idea.
![A Dip in the Natural Hot Spring Waterfall of Akita]()
A Dip in the Natural Hot Spring Waterfall of Akita
The best way to reach Kawarage Oyutaki is by driving as there is no public transportation to reach the arid hot spring at the top of the mountains. A local bus does run from Yuzawa City to the popular Doroyu Onsen, and from this point on it is possible to make the three-kilmoeter hike over to the waterfall. If your sole interest is to soak in the natural hot spring, then the best option is to rent a car near Yuzawa Station and make the 30-kilometer trip south to Kawarage. The drive to Banzawa Takamatsu, the more precise location of Kawarage Oyutaki is a scenic one as you drive through small towns, apple farms, and rice fields. After tackling the swirling road up the side of the mountain, you’ll find a free parking lot leaving you only a 15-minute walk down to the rare waterfall.
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