Tazawako: Discovering the Allure of Onsens and Scenic Vistas

In the crisp winter morning of December, we embarked on a journey from the bustling city of Tokyo to the enchanting prefecture of Akita. Fuelling ourselves with a steaming cup of coffee at the station, we boarded the Shinkansen, a marvel of modern transportation. Thanks to the convenience of our 14-day JR pass, ticket was already taken care of. As we entered the train, we discovered that all the seats were fully reserved, but fortune smiled upon us in the form of a helpful attendant. Guided by their expertise, we found ourselves a cozy spot amidst the empty seats. A valuable tip we learned along the way: always secure a standing ticket from a JR service center to ensure you have a backup plan in case reservations are unavailable. The knowledgeable staff at the service center also offer insightful hints on which coach to stand in, increasing your chances of securing a seat. With this stroke of luck and a sense of anticipation, our Akita adventure began to unfold.

While the train whisked us away at an exhilarating speed of 300 kilometers per hour, the landscape blurred by, a mesmerizing transformation unfolded before our eyes. The barren winter scenery gradually gave way to a winter wonderland adorned with a pristine blanket of snow. Coming from countries where hot and humid climates prevail, the sight of snow never fails to ignite our inner childlike excitement. Nature's artistry unfolded before us, as if painting a surreal masterpiece that left us in awe of its ethereal beauty. Together, we revelled in the enchanting scenery, creating memories that would forever be etched in our hearts

Our day in Akita began with well-crafted plan that promised adventure and relaxation in equal measure. Our journey to this tranquil oasis began with a scenic shuttle bus ride from Tazawako station. As the bus made its way through the picturesque landscape, anticipation grew within us, knowing that the soothing waters of Ganiba Onsen awaited our arrival. The final stop of the bus brought us to Ganiba Onsen, an old-ish establishment that exuded a sense of timeless charm. The architecture and ambiance transported us to a bygone era, adding an extra touch of authenticity to our experience.

Inside, we discovered a delightful mix of indoor and outdoor baths, each offering its own unique allure. As we immersed ourselves in the soothing waters, the cares of the world melted away, leaving us in a state of blissful relaxation. However, one of the baths was lukewarm, offering a more tepid experience. From the soothing hot springs to the invigorating outdoor pools, each experience transported us to a realm of tranquillity and rejuvenation. The healing properties of the mineral-rich waters embraced us, melting away the weariness of our journey and leaving us refreshed and invigorated.

After our blissful time at Ganiba Onsen, we embarked on a delightful exploration of the nearby onsens, each offering its own distinctive charm. Here are a few noteworthy ones that you can explore:

1. Nyuto Onsen (乳頭温泉)
   Address: Nyuto, Tazawako, Semboku, Akita Prefecture, Japan

2. Tsurunoyu Onsen (鶴の湯温泉)
   Address: Nyuto, Tazawako, Semboku, Akita Prefecture, Japan

3. Magoroku Onsen (孫六温泉)
   Address: Nyuto, Tazawako, Semboku, Akita Prefecture, Japan

4. Taenoyu Onsen (稲荷山温泉 多江の湯)
   Address: Nyuto, Tazawako, Semboku, Akita Prefecture, Japan

Although we couldn't visit Nyuto Onsen this time, we are excited to plan a trip in the future, ensuring we have ample time to fully explore and appreciate its historical significance. As for Tsurunoyu Onsen, we were captivated by its distinct allure, further enriched by the videos and experiences shared by popular YouTubers. Please note that while the addresses provided are accurate, it's always a good idea to double-check the exact locations and operating hours before visiting these onsens, as they may be subject to changes or seasonal variations.

Each onsen offers a unique setting to relax and unwind, immersing ourselves in the therapeutic hot springs that Akita is renowned for. Exploring these nearby onsens allows you to further delve into the rich culture and rejuvenating tradition that Akita has to offer.

After our blissful soak, our appetite led us to a delightful lunch at Taenoyu Onsen. Lunch at Taenoyu Onsen was a delightful experience. This particular onsen is distinctive for its breathtaking waterfall-facing bath. As we savored our meal, we were captivated by the mesmerizing view of the cascading water, creating a serene and soothing atmosphere. To our surprise, Taenoyu Onsen also offered vegetarian options, allowing us to indulge in a delicious and fulfilling meal that catered to our dietary preferences. The local cuisine tantalized our taste buds, offering a delectable fusion of flavours that showcased the region's culinary prowess.

Vegetarian lunch at Taenoyu Onsen

Eager to explore more of Tazawako's treasures, we hopped on the shuttle bus, a convenient mode of transport, and were transported to the enchanting Lake Tazawako. The serenity of the frozen lake, surrounded by snow-clad mountains, was a sight to behold. As we walked hand in hand, the crisp winter air filled us with a sense of wonder, and we couldn't help but marvel at the untouched beauty of nature.

After exploring various onsens, we made our way to the next stop which was Tazawa-kohan bus stop on the lake Tazawa’s eastern shore. From here we had to switch to another shuttle bus which would take us around the lake Tazawa. Lake Tazawa, located near Towada-Hachimantai National Park, is a rustic and untouched caldera lake, formed within the volcanic crater of an ancient volcano. Its picturesque surroundings and pristine waters make it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers. With a depth of 423 meters, Lake Tazawa holds the distinction of being the deepest lake in Japan. This remarkable depth contributes to its allure and adds to the sense of mystery and grandeur.

Cultural Significance: Lake Tazawa is also steeped in folklore and legend. It is famously associated with the mythical figure of Princess Tatsuko, who is believed to have transformed into the lake to retain her youthful beauty forever. This legend adds a touch of enchantment and intrigue to the lake's appeal.

Overall, the combination of its natural beauty, deepness, unspoiled atmosphere, and cultural significance makes Lake Tazawa a special and captivating destination for travelers.

Before leaving Tazawako, we couldn't resist exploring the souvenir shop, or "omiyage-ya" in Japanese. Inside, we discovered a wide variety of unique and culturally significant items that captured the essence of Akita. With our prized souvenirs in hand, we bid farewell, knowing that our journey had been enriched not only by the experiences we had shared but also by the tangible reminders that would forever transport us back to the enchanting land of Akita.

As we boarded the Shinkansen, our hearts filled with gratitude for the memories we had made and the treasures we had acquired. The train took us back to Tokyo, leaving us with a sense of joy and a lasting bond to the captivating charm of Akita.

Getting There

• Shinkansen Fare and Duration from Tokyo:

  • One-way fare: The one-way fare from Tokyo to Tazawako via the shinkansen (bullet train) varies depending on the specific train and class of service chosen. On average, the fare can range from around 10,000 to 15,000 yen.

  • Duration: The journey from Tokyo to Tazawako by shinkansen typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the train and any transfers involved.

• Tazawako Shuttle Bus Day Pass Cost:

  • The cost of a shuttle bus day pass in Tazawako may vary depending on the specific provider or season. However, the approximate cost is around 1,000 to 1,500 yen per person. Please note that this information may be subject to change, so it's always best to double-check with the local tourist information center or the provider of the shuttle bus service for the most up-to-date pricing.

• Shuttle Bus Timings and Fare:

  • You can typically obtain this information from the local tourist information center or the shuttle bus operator upon arrival in the area. They will be able to provide you with a detailed schedule, fare information, and any other relevant details regarding the shuttle bus service.