🏨 Japan's Three Secret Hot Springs: Yachi Onsen

Yachi Onsen in Aomori Prefecture boasts a proud history of over 400 years, and is renowned alongside Iya Valley Onsen in Tokushima Prefecture and Niseko Onsen in Hokkaido as one of Japan's "Three Great Hidden Hot Springs." This onsen ryokan retains the atmosphere of an ancient hot spring resort and is located at the foot of Mount Hakkoda, one of Japan's 100 famous mountains. The nearby expansive Yachi Wetlands and its natural surroundings add to its charm. The main building, East Wing, and West Wing together offer 36 guest rooms, each with large windows that provide stunning views of the changing seasons. The hot spring water is directly gushing from the bottom of the bath, known as "ashiyu jihan." The 38°C "Shita no Yu" helps relieve neuralgia, arthritis, and fatigue, while the 42°C "Ue no Yu" is beneficial for improving insomnia, atopic dermatitis, and chronic illnesses, allowing guests to enjoy two different types of hot springs. For first-time visitors, it is recommended to start with a soak in "Shita no Yu" to relax, and then move on to "Ue no Yu" once the body feels warm. Day-use bathing services are also available for outside guests. At the restaurant "Bunashizuku (ぶなしずく)" within Yachi Onsen, guests can enjoy delicious cuisine. Dishes featuring the locally famous iwana (sweetfish), iwana bone sake, and countryside dishes made from local mountain vegetables and mushrooms are available. The restaurant insists on using fresh seasonal ingredients, allowing diners to experience the seasonal characteristics through their meals, which have received high praise. Additionally, local sake from Aomori is also highly recommended.

One of Japan's three great hidden hot springs. Located at the foot of the Hakkoda Mountains, it boasts a captivating geographical setting surrounded by natural features such as marshlands. There are a total of 36 guest rooms, each offering views of the changing seasons. The hot spring features "jiyu-shutsu" (self-springing) water, allowing guests to enjoy both "shita-yu" (lower bath) and "ue-yu" (upper bath) types of hot springs. The cuisine, including the famous iwana (rock trout) dishes and various other countryside delicacies, is also exceptionally delicious.