Exploring Nyuto Onsen Village – Tsurunoyu

Having lived in Japan for many years, I recently visited the famous Nyuto Onsen Village for the first time. The journey isn't the most convenient, as it requires taking a bus from Tazawako Station after the Shinkansen, and for Tsurunoyu, an additional shuttle bus or a 38-minute walk is needed. Accommodations are also hard to book and not very cost-effective. However, this has allowed the hot springs to retain their natural charm, making them a hidden gem. The remote location even led to two bear sightings on the way. Tsurunoyu, the oldest onsen in the area, features a beautiful light blue outdoor bath with a slightly lower temperature, offering a delightful experience amidst the snow. The indoor black bath is perfectly warm, while the white and medium baths are slightly hotter. The mixed-gender outdoor bath is almost completely open, which I didn't dare to try. For those staying in Nyuto Onsen Village, it's recommended to purchase the Yumeguri Pass, which allows access to all seven hot springs and includes free shuttle bus rides, valid for a year. #JapanTravel #JapanLife #Onsen #HotSpring #NyutoOnsen #Tsurunoyu