Yachi Onsen

Boasting over 400 years of history, Yachi Onsen in Aomori Prefecture is counted among Japan's three great hidden hot springs, alongside Tokushima Prefecture's Iya Valley Onsen and Hokkaido's Niseko Onsen. Preserving the ambiance of an old-fashioned sanatorium, this hot spring inn is situated at the foot of Mount Hakkoda, one of Japan's renowned hundred mountains. Embraced by the vast natural beauty of the Yachi Wetlands, its charm adds to the appeal. The inn comprises a main building, an east wing, and a west wing, with a total of 36 rooms, each offering views of the ever-changing seasonal landscapes through wide windows.

The hot springs bubble up directly from the bottom of the bath. Visitors can indulge in two types of baths: the 38°C "Shita no Yu," known for its healing properties for neuralgia, arthritis, and fatigue, and the 42°C "Ue no Yu," effective for insomnia, atopic dermatitis, and chronic diseases. For first-timers, it’s recommended to start with the "Shita no Yu" to gently warm up before moving to the "Ue no Yu." Day trips to the hot springs are also available.

Meals are served at the inn's dining area, "Bunashizuku," where visitors can savor specialties such as char fish dishes, char bone sake, and country cooking with locally sourced wild vegetables and mushrooms. The cuisine is renowned for its focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Local Aomori sake is also available for those wanting to sample regional flavors.