Hidden deep within the mountains of Akita Prefecture, Nyuto Onsen is one of Japan’s most celebrated hot spring areas. Known for its pristine nature, tranquil atmosphere, and milky-white sulfur baths, it offers what Japanese people call a hito — a “secret hot spring” experience — attracting both domestic and international travelers.
Among the seven inns that make up Nyuto Onsen, Tsurunoyu stands out as the most iconic. Its thatched-roof buildings, large mixed-gender open-air bath, and local specialty Imo Nabe (a hot pot with grated mountain yam dumplings) have made it famous nationwide.
On my latest trip, however, I didn’t stay at the main Tsurunoyu building, but at its quieter and more secluded annex: Yama-no-Yado (“Mountain Inn”).
Unlike the main inn, Yama-no-Yado does not accept day visitors. This ensures a calm, serene environment — perfect for those who want to escape the rush of daily life.
Here, guests can enjoy three exclusive private baths, savor mountain cuisine cooked over a traditional sunken hearth (irori), and immerse themselves in the peaceful sounds of nature. If you’re looking for a place to truly unwind, this is it.
■Basic Information
| Address | 1 Yunotai, Tazawako Obonai, Semboku City, Akita 014-1201, Japan |
| Phone | +81-187-46-2100 |
| Official Website | Tsuru-no-yu Onsen, Yama-no-Yado Annex, Nyuto Onsen Village, Akita’s Hidden Hot Spring |
Tsurunoyu Annex “Yama no Yado”
Getting There
Nyuto Onsen consists of seven different inns scattered through the area, but Tsurunoyu is located a little apart from the others.
Driving from the south, you take Prefectural Route 149 northwards into the mountains. Eventually, you’ll see a sign pointing toward Tsurunoyu — turn left there, and you’ll enter a narrower mountain road.
A bit further in, another sign for “Yama-no-Yado” appears. Turn right here, and you’ve arrived. The road isn’t especially tight, but first-time drivers in rural Japan should take it slow.
Parking is flexible — there’s no official strict parking lot, but several open spaces are available.
About the Inn
Opened in 1994, Yama-no-Yado is relatively new compared to the historical main Tsurunoyu, yet its architecture blends beautifully with the surrounding wilderness, just as if it had been standing there for centuries.
Inside, wooden floors, lanterns from the Secret Onsen Preservation Association, and long serene hallways set the mood.
Rooms are simple — no TV, but spacious and well-kept, with a view of the mountainside.
A horigotatsu (sunken kotatsu table) sits near the window — perfect for winter.
In summer, note that there’s no air-conditioning, though cool mountain air often makes it comfortable at night.
Each room has its own toilet and small bath, but most guests opt for the private onsen baths.
A special treat awaits on the table: Tsuru-man, a manju (sweet bun) made with local mountain yam and filled with smooth, mildly sweet red bean paste. They’re addictive — and available for purchase as a souvenir.
The Hot Springs
As of May 2025, Yama-no-Yado offers three private baths — two indoor baths and one open-air bath.
Bathing hours run from 3:00 PM until 11:00 AM the next morning, essentially allowing 24-hour access. Each bath is secured by a wooden sign with an attached key; take the sign to indicate occupancy and lock the door for privacy.
Indoor Baths
Both indoor baths feature milky-white, slightly blue-tinted sulfur water, continuously overflowing from the source. At around 38–39°C (100–102°F) in spring, the water is luxuriously lukewarm — perfect for extended soaks.
Unlike some strong sulfur springs, the pH here is about 6.5, making it gentle on the skin. The subtle sulfur aroma is comforting and encourages deep relaxation — it’s easy to lose track of time.
Open-Air Bath
The sole open-air private bath is a beautiful stone pool surrounded by trees, with the same delicate blue-white water.
Mornings are magical here: fresh mountain air, birdsong, and the warmth of the water blending into a perfect moment of peace.
Dining – Irori Cuisine
Both dinner and breakfast are served around a traditional irori hearth in the dining room — enhancing the rustic mountain lodge feeling.
Dinner Highlights
- Sansai dishes – mountain vegetables such as kogomi (ostrich fern) and tara-no-me (angelica shoots), available only in spring.
- Salt-grilled yamame trout – finished by the guests over the irori to keep it warm and fragrant.
- Charcoal-grilled meats & vegetables – pork, sausages, and shiitake mushrooms, dipped in a local shio-gyosho (salted fish sauce).
- Nijimasu sashimi – fresh rainbow trout served raw and delicate.
- Mountain vegetable tempura – light, crispy, and best enjoyed with just a pinch of salt.
- Tsurunoyu’s signature Imo Nabe – hearty broth with grated yam dumplings, wild mushrooms, and greens like seri (Japanese parsley).
Breakfast Highlights
A lighter meal, but still served by the irori. Grilled fish fillet over charcoal, miso soup, fresh tofu, and the classic natto-tamago gohan (rice topped with fermented soybeans and raw egg).
Final Thoughts
Yama-no-Yado offers:
- Three atmospheric private baths
- Memorable irori-style meals
- A peaceful, natural environment far removed from the bustle of daily life
And with complimentary shuttle service to the main Tsurunoyu baths, you get the best of both worlds. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, Yama-no-Yado invites you to slow down and savor the moment.