
Magoroku Onsen
A secluded, traditional onsen ryokan in Akita, offering private and communal hot springs amidst stunning natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant foliage, crisp air

Magoroku Onsen
Best Time
Vibrant foliage, crisp air
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded, traditional onsen ryokan in Akita, offering private and communal hot springs amidst stunning natural beauty.
"The dreamiest Japanese onsen ryokan, surrounded by forests and mountains. "

🚶♀️ Walk the Scenic Route
Even with snow, the 20-minute walk from the bus stop is safe and offers incredible views.
💧 Hydrate for Longer Soaks
Bring or buy a drink at reception to stay hydrated and enjoy the therapeutic waters longer.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Private Open-Air Baths
Individual cabins
Relax in your own secluded rotenburo, surrounded by serene beech forests and rugged mountains. Pure bliss.

Mixed-Gender Outdoor Baths
Riverside rotenburo
Experience the unique charm of communal outdoor baths with stunning natural views.

Traditional Ryokan Dining
Dining hall
Savor delicious, locally-inspired meals in a communal setting, fostering connection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Seclusion
Seasonal Considerations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Scenic Route
Even with snow, the 20-minute walk from the bus stop is safe and offers incredible views.
💧 Hydrate for Longer Soaks
Bring or buy a drink at reception to stay hydrated and enjoy the therapeutic waters longer.
🧖♀️ Pack Your Own Towel
While some amenities might be available, bringing your own towel is recommended.
📞 Arrange Shuttle in Advance
If you prefer not to walk, shuttle service is available but needs to be arranged by phone.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Scenic Route
Even with snow, the 20-minute walk from the bus stop is safe and offers incredible views.
💧 Hydrate for Longer Soaks
Bring or buy a drink at reception to stay hydrated and enjoy the therapeutic waters longer.
🧖♀️ Pack Your Own Towel
While some amenities might be available, bringing your own towel is recommended.
📞 Arrange Shuttle in Advance
If you prefer not to walk, shuttle service is available but needs to be arranged by phone.
♨️ Explore All Bath Types
Magoroku Onsen offers 3 types of hot spring sources, each with unique properties.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Magoroku Onsen is praised for its incredibly secluded and natural setting, offering a peaceful escape with unique outdoor hot springs. While some visitors note the small size of facilities for day-trippers and potential access challenges in winter, the overall experience is highly valued for its tranquility and connection to nature.
"For the one-day pass visitors that only can use the indoor onsen .it’s extremely small and feels full with just three people. Compared to the other six inns, I really wouldn’t recommend it."
Hikalu Lin
"When we hiked the dirt road to Magoroku Onsen in late September 2023, the access road was closed to car traffic and a sign posted that the Onsen is temporarily closed. Arriving there, the buildings were in various stages of decay with broken windows etc. Unfortunately it would take a major renovation to open this place again."
Peter Hey
"It's a great place, sadly during our stay there is a storm which prevent us enjoying the onsen properly.
Food and accommodation are great, if any, 2 day 1 night stay may not be enough as snow storm really prevent you having a proper soak, and prepare to walk the 800 m from the bus stop to the place, as shuttle need to be arranged by phone call, and shuttle won't be going in a light snow storm which still can be traversed through by walking"
James Salim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Magoroku Onsen is located in the Nyuto Onsenkyo area of Akita Prefecture. Access typically involves taking a bus to the nearest stop and then walking approximately 1 km (about 20 minutes) to the ryokan, even in snow. A shuttle service is available but needs to be arranged by phone.
Yes, there is parking available, but it is limited and can accommodate only about four cars. It's advisable to arrive early if you plan to drive.
Yes, day trip passes are available for enjoying the baths. These passes typically grant access to the indoor and outdoor onsen facilities.
The most common way to reach Nyuto Onsenkyo is by train to Tazawako Station, followed by a bus towards Nyuto Onsen. From there, you'll need to make your way to Magoroku Onsen specifically.
In winter, the access road might be closed to car traffic, but walking is generally considered safe. Always check local conditions before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A day tripper ticket for Magoroku Onsen costs approximately ¥510 per adult. It's recommended to confirm current pricing upon arrival.
The day pass typically grants access to the indoor and outdoor hot spring baths. Some reviews suggest that day pass visitors may only have access to the indoor onsen, which can be very small.
Magoroku Onsen is one of seven ryokans in Nyuto Onsenkyo. While guests staying at one ryokan can often use baths at others with a 'Yumeguri Pass', day pass holders are generally limited to the facilities of the ryokan they purchase the pass from.
Operating hours for day visitors can vary, and it's best to check directly with the ryokan or local tourism information. Arriving in the morning, around 10 am, is often recommended.
Yes, Magoroku Onsen is a traditional ryokan offering overnight stays. Booking in advance is highly recommended due to its limited number of rooms.
🎫 ♨️ Onsite Experience
Magoroku Onsen features three types of hot spring sources. There are indoor baths (separate for men and women, and a mixed-gender one) and outdoor baths (rotenburo), including mixed-gender options and one for women only.
Yes, Magoroku Onsen offers mixed-gender outdoor baths (rotenburo), which are a highlight for many visitors seeking a unique experience.
The hot spring water is locally known as 'mountain medicine water' and is believed to have numerous health benefits. The outdoor baths offer varying temperatures and levels of sun exposure.
Due to its secluded location and limited capacity, Magoroku Onsen is generally not crowded, especially for overnight guests. Day visitors might find the indoor baths small if many people are present.
The ryokan offers a traditional Japanese inn experience with a limited number of rooms, each offering a sense of privacy and connection to nature.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Magoroku Onsen serves traditional Japanese meals, including breakfast and dinner, often prepared with local ingredients. These are typically served in a communal dining area.
Yes, dinner is usually included as part of an overnight stay at the ryokan, offering a full traditional Japanese dining experience.
While the focus for day visitors is on the onsen, it's possible to purchase drinks at reception. Full meals are generally reserved for overnight guests.
Meals are served in a counter-style dining area, encouraging guests to gather and connect. It's a place to enjoy food and the company of others and nature.
It's advisable to inquire about dietary restrictions when booking your stay, as traditional ryokan meals are often set menus.
📸 📸 Photography
The outdoor baths with the river views, the surrounding beech forests, and the traditional ryokan architecture are all picturesque. Capture the steam rising from the onsen against the natural backdrop.
Photography in onsen areas, especially in communal baths, should be done with utmost respect for other guests' privacy. It's best to focus on landscapes and architectural details when others are present.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer beautiful soft light. The changing seasons also provide unique photographic opportunities, from autumn colors to winter snow.
Yes, the beautifully presented traditional Japanese meals are often worth capturing.
There are no specific mentions of drone usage, but given the remote and natural setting, it's best to assume restrictions may apply and to check locally.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
💖 Couples Seeking Romance
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Nyuto Onsenkyo
Magoroku Onsen itself is known for its rustic charm and its location directly on the banks of the Sentatsugawa River. The ryokan offers a limited number of rooms, emphasizing a peaceful and intimate experience. The surrounding beech forests provide a stunning natural backdrop that changes dramatically with the seasons, from vibrant autumn colors to a serene blanket of winter snow. This seclusion is a key part of its appeal, offering a true escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
While the allure of Nyuto Onsenkyo is strong, it's important to note that some of the facilities, particularly for day visitors, can be quite small. However, for those seeking an authentic, tranquil onsen experience deeply connected to nature, Magoroku Onsen and the wider Nyuto Onsenkyo area are unparalleled.
Experiencing the Baths at Magoroku Onsen
The true stars of Magoroku Onsen are its outdoor baths, or 'rotenburo'. These baths are situated to offer stunning views of the surrounding nature, including the Sentatsugawa River. There are mixed-gender rotenburo, providing a unique communal bathing experience, and a separate one for women. Travelers often highlight the tranquility of these outdoor baths, especially when visiting during off-peak times or seasons, allowing for a truly immersive soak surrounded by the sounds of nature.
For day visitors, it's worth noting that the indoor baths can feel quite compact if multiple people are present. However, the opportunity to experience the natural hot springs in such a secluded setting, whether in a private open-air bath or a communal rotenburo, is a significant draw. Remember to stay hydrated during your soak, as recommended by visitors, to fully enjoy the therapeutic benefits.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit