From the legend of the crane to the silent well in the valley

October 20, 2025 – Late Afternoon in Nyuto Village After standing quietly under the shade of the straw roof of Tsurunoyu—the oldest hot spring in Nyuto Onsen—we continued our journey. While we didn't soak in the milky-white baths legendary for their cranes, the visit, the sight of them, the sulfurous air, and the sound of the stream flowing through the old trees, was enough for an afternoon. The car left Tsurunoyu's small parking lot and headed up the mountain. The narrow, winding road weaved through a forest of autumn leaves, thick with woven cloth. Oak trees leaned against the steep slopes, the water still cascading along the sides. Silent but not silent, it was not without sound. Our next destination was not far away—Taenoyu Onsenkyo, another of seven hot springs in the valley, where we would be staying for the night. Upon arrival, the sound of the stream became the main sound of the place. The modern two-story Japanese-style hut was nestled against the mountainside, nestled between the forest and the rocky walls that supported the flowing stream. Behind us, a terraced waterfall cascades down to the rocks below, the white water crashing against the red rocks as if it were purposely placed. This place isn't as old as Tsurunoyu, and lacks the legend of the bird and the traditional wooden houses, but it exudes a contemporary tranquility. We took out our cameras to capture the surrounding scenery, the walls of the houses reflecting the golden leaves, and the streams casting the last rays of light down. But the watch on our wrists reminded us of reality—we had to check in at Kyukamura Nyuto-Onsenkyo in time for our pre-booked dinner. 📍 Semboku, Akita Prefecture, Japan Recommended time: October — The confluence of red leaves and heat is at its most beautiful. #NyutoOnsen #Akita #JapanAutumn #JapanOnsen #TravelJapan #JapaneseOnsen #onsentrip