Hanamaki Minami Onsenkyo

Of the 12 hot spring resorts in Hanamaki, eight are located along the ravine in the western part of Hanamaki City and are called "Hanamaki Minami Onsenkyo". It is said that the bath opened 300 to 400 years ago and has a long history. There are a wide variety of lodgings, including traditional hot-spring resorts, large hotels popular with families, and luxury lodgings where all rooms have an open-air bath.

From the entrance of the hot spring gorge, there are Matsukura Onsen, Shidotaira Onsen, Watari Onsen, followed by Osawa Onsen, Yamanokami Onsen, Namari Onsen, and Shin Namari Onsen at the far end. All of the hot springs are surrounded by lush green mountains and have a secluded atmosphere.

Yukaen in Yamanokami Onsen has one of the largest open-air baths in Hanamaki Onsenkyo, with a total of more than 50 tatami mats for men and women. At Osawa Onsen, a 200-year-old building is used as a therapeutic bathhouse, where you can cook in a traditional communal kitchen. It is also famous that Kenji Miyazawa loved the hot spring so much that he frequented the area.

Hanamakminami Onsenkyo offers a spectacular view along the mountain stream and has a reputation for the quality of its springs. You can also use the bus stops at each hot spring area to enjoy a tour of the hot springs.