A Hidden Gem Near Sendai
Akiu Onsen (秋保温泉) is a peaceful hot spring town just a short drive from Sendai City, in Miyagi Prefecture. It has been loved by locals and travelers for more than 1,500 years, and was even visited by Japan’s first emperor, Emperor Jomei. It is known as one of the Three Famous Hot Springs of Oshu (奥州三名湯), along with Naruko Onsen and Iizaka Onsen.
I visited Akiu Onsen during late autumn, and the town was full of color. The mix of traditional inns, clear rivers, and mountains made me feel completely relaxed. It’s not a large town, but that’s part of the charm. Quiet. Natural. Healing.
Soak in Soothing Waters
Akiu’s hot spring water flows directly from natural sources and is slightly alkaline, which is gentle on the skin. Most baths are around 40–42°C, which feels just right in the cooler months. Many ryokan (旅館) here have open-air baths (露天風呂 / rotenburo) with views of trees, rivers, or even snow in winter.
One of the most famous spots is Hotel Sakan, which has been operating for over 1,000 years. Even if you don’t stay overnight, you can enjoy day-use bathing (higaeri onsen). Some inns also offer private baths for couples or families.
Nature and Sights Around Akiu
One thing I liked about Akiu is how close everything is. After a bath, I walked along the Natori River and visited nearby attractions. If you like nature, don’t miss:
- Akiu Great Falls (秋保大滝) – one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls, 55 meters high and surrounded by forest
- Rairaikyo Gorge (磊々峡) – a short walk with cliffs and unusual rock shapes, especially pretty in autumn
- Akiu Craft Park – where you can try making kokeshi dolls or pottery with local artists
- Akiu Village Market – a local spot with fresh vegetables, handmade goods, and light meals
I also tried zunda mochi, a local treat made with sweet green soybean paste. It was soft, creamy, and perfect after a bath.
Stay the Night or Just for the Day
There are many ryokan and hot spring hotels in Akiu. Some are small, family-run inns with homemade meals and quiet rooms. Others are modern hotels with large baths, buffet dinners, and shuttle buses from Sendai Station.
Even if you don’t stay overnight, many inns allow day visitors to use their baths. These are called higaeri nyuyoku (日帰り入浴) and cost around 1,000 to 2,000 yen. A few places also have ashiyu (足湯) footbaths, which are free to use.
Why Visit Akiu Onsen?
Akiu Onsen feels like a balance between tradition and nature. It is quiet but not too far. It is known but not crowded. If you want to enjoy a real hot spring town without long travel or busy streets, Akiu is perfect.
In autumn, the trees turn red and yellow. In winter, snow covers the rooftops. In summer, the rivers are clear and cool. Akiu is beautiful in all seasons.
Tips Before You Go
- Bring your own towel, or rent one at the bath
- Some inns have tattoo-friendly hours or private baths
- Try local food like zunda, gyutan (grilled beef tongue), and Sendai miso
- Best seasons to visit: spring and autumn
Easy Access from Sendai
Akiu Onsen is one of the easiest hot spring towns to visit from a big city. From Sendai Station, take a local bus to Akiu (about 30–40 minutes). You can also take a taxi or drive, which takes around 25 minutes. There is no train station in Akiu, but that makes the area feel more peaceful.
If you’re visiting Sendai for sightseeing, adding a short trip to Akiu is a great way to relax your body and mind.
