Naruko Hot Spring Resort that boasts one of the greatest ranges of hot springs in Japan
Rare hot spring resort with 9 different hot springs
Naruko Hot Spring Resort is an area of hot springs upstream of the Eaigawa River that flows through northern Miyagi Prefecture. The resort encompasses five hot spring areas -- the Naruko Hot Spring, Higashi Naruko Hot Spring, Kawatabi Hot Spring, Nakayamadaira Hot Spring, and Onikobe Hot Spring -- that collectively have a history of over a thousand years.
They feature varied types of springs and plentiful water volume. You can enjoy 9 of the 11 types of hot springs in the Naruko Hot Spring Resort that are designated according to contained substances and volume. As each type of hot spring has different benefits, it is a good idea to look at what benefits they offer before bathing.
* Including former hot spring names.
Long term stay “hot spring cure” in the hot spring area
Of the five hot spring areas, the Higashi Naruko Hot Spring is well-known as a leading therapeutic bath in the Tohoku region.
Therapeutic baths are one method for recovering health that has been used in Japan since long ago. This spa treatment aims to cure illnesses and relieve fatigue by bathing multiple times a day for at least one week, and sometimes even for weeks at a time, while staying at the hot spring resort. As guests generally prepare their own meals, most therapeutic bath facilities have communal kitchens. Some places offer plans for experiencing part of the treatment over a short stay of two or three days.
Sightseeing spots at the Naruko Hot Spring Resort
According to the Shoku Nihongi Japanese history text, the history of the Naruko Hot Spring Resort began with the outburst of hot water after a volcanic eruption in the year 837. A five or so minute walk from Naruko Hot Spring station brings you to the Hot Spring Shrine dedicated to the god of the gushing hot springs.
There is also a communal bath called Taki no Yu under the shrine where you can enjoy milky white water called Goshinto (water of the god) of the Hot Spring Shrine. At the same time, you should also visit Katanuma that is about 2 km from Naruko Hot Spring station. This is one of the world’s few highly acidic crater lakes and the color of the water changes from deep blue to emerald blue depending on the weather.
How about joining a tour to enjoy the Naruko hot springs?
