LUXURY ONSEN TRIP IN TOHOKU JAPAN

LUXURY ONSEN TRIP IN TOHOKU JAPAN - For those planning a wellness-themed holiday in a nature-rich destination with lots of open space after the pandemic, Akita Prefecture in northern Japan is a world-class option well worth consideration. Akita is among the country's least-populated and least-traveled prefectures and home to renowned therapeutic hot springs resorts nestled deep in the scenic mountains of Towada-Hachimantai National Park. These hot springs (called “onsen” in Japanese) resorts, namely Nyuto Onsenkyo, Tamagawa Onsen and Goshougake Onsen, have been popular in Japan for centuries as a place for healing and relaxation.

Nyuto Onsenkyo is home to seven hot spring inns each with its own source of spring water. Onsen hopping is highly recommended in order to experience the different charms of the various inns and their spring water properties. Onsen hopping at Nyuto Onsenkyo is said to be beneficial for various ailments. A shuttle bus service is available between the inns with a one-day “Yumeguri-map” pass available while the Yumeguri Pass includes a one-day bus pass and admission to the seven Onsen baths and is recommended for overnight guests. Both can be purchased at the reception of each inn. For more information on Nyuto Onsenkyo

Tamagawa Onsen is unique in Japan for two reasons. The first is that it is the source of the largest volume of spring water, with water rising to the surface at a rate of 9,000 litres per minute. With water temperatures of up to 98 degrees at its source, the sight of the hot spring water gushing out of the earth presents an incredible display of the force of nature. The Onsen's second claim to fame is that the water has the highest acidity of hot spring water in all Japan with a pH of 1.2. This sterilising water is said to be beneficial for a range of ailments. The unique hot spring water also contains small amounts of radioactive radium gas that combines with the scent of sulphur. For more on Tamagawa Onsen

Goshogake Onsen is located on the Hachimantai Aspite Line, a scenic driving route traversing Mount Hachimantai. The hot spring inn here is popular with people coming for hot spring treatments, and its water is said to be beneficial for all kinds of ailments. Visitors can enjoy seven kinds of hot spring baths at the inn. For more on Goshogake Onsen

（NOTE：Japan currently has entry restrictions in place in efforts to contain the global pandemic. Please see coronavirus advisory information by Japan National Tourist Office for updates on entry restrictions: japan.travel/en/coronavirus）