Sukayu Hot Spring Onsen Experience
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Port
Aomori, Japan
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$320
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4¾ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
For centuries, the Japanese have enjoyed the health and social benefits of hot spring baths. This activity is so popular that the country is dotted with thousands of onsen (springs) and Aomori is known as one of the most prominent hot springs resorts in Japan.
Venture into the volcanic Hakkoda mountain range, crossing the Jogakura-Ohashi Bridge — the longest steel arch bridge in Japan — and pausing for photographs. Completed in 1995, it is 825 feet long and 400 feet tall. It also offers excellent views of the Hakkoda.
Sit down for a traditional lunch in the café at Sukayu Hot Spring. Resting on the western side of Mt Odake, the Sukayu Hot Spring has a history dating back to 1684. And it's just as popular today as it was during the Edo period. With more than 2,800 square feet of bathing area, it's known for its sen-nin-buro or 1,000-person bath. Did you know that natural spring waters aren't always clear? The water may be green, black, red, or whitedepen, according on the mineral content. Many people believe that different minerals help to cure certain health conditions.
The bathing protocol in Japan is quite strict and it is not negotiable — wearing a swimsuit is not allowed, and, before entering the bath, you must shower and rinse off. You're not allowed to put your towel in the water and, above all, splashing or playing around in the water is not allowed as the hot spring is a communal bath experience meant for relaxing.
Reboard the coach and head back to Aomori after your extraordinary mountain adventure, bathing in the onsen.
Please note: Bring a towel. The floor of the bath area is very slippery; participate at your own risk. Sukayu Hot Spring is a mixed-gender bathing facility. Wearing a swimsuit is not allowed; all bathers are naked. Tour operates subject to meeting a minimum number of participants. Bring local currency, as most vendors do not accept US dollars or credit cards. Unfamiliar accents can be challenging; feel free to ask your guide to repeat or elaborate on information, and to speak more slowly so you can fully comprehend and converse.