Amihari Onsen (網張温泉)

Introduction: The 1,300-Year Cloud Sanctuary of Mt. Iwate’s Sacred Slopes

Perched at an elevation of 760 meters on the majestic southern slopes of Mt. Iwate, Amihari Onsen (網張温泉) is a destination where ancient spiritual history meets the raw, restorative power of volcanic nature. Established over 1,300 years ago during the Nara period, its name—meaning “Stretched Net”—stems from a legend that a sacred net was cast to protect the hidden spring from those with impure hearts. Historically recognized as one of the “Three Great Hidden Springs of the North,” Amihari remains a sanctuary of absolute environmental purity. For the international traveler, Amihari Onsen offers a profound sensory journey: soaking in potent, milky-white sulfur waters while watching the sea of clouds roll over the Shizukuishi valley, breathing in the high-oxygen air of primeval birch forests, and witnessing a landscape where the earth’s steam rises vigorously against the background of the “Fuji of Tohoku.” It is a place of spiritual grounding, alpine grandeur, and a restorative warmth that has healed explorers and mountain priests for over a millennium.

Key Information Table

The Healing Waters: The “Amihari Five Baths” Phenomenon

The water at Amihari Onsen is geologically intense, drawing its power from the deep volcanic veins of Mt. Iwate. It is a powerful Simple Sulfur Spring.
The Visuals: The water emerges crystal clear at high temperatures but reacts with the mountain air to turn a striking, opaque milky-white.
The Amihari Five Baths (網張五湯): Unique to this enclave is the ability to soak in five distinct thermal environments:
1. Yakushi-no-yu: The historic indoor bath built with fragrant Aomori Hiba (cypress).
2. Sennin-no-yu: A spectacular outdoor Rotenburo perched on the edge of the forest.
3. Shika-no-yu (Deer’s Bath): A wild, outdoor rock pool located a short hike from the lodge.
4. White Birch Bath: Surrounded by the ghostly white trees of the sub-alpine forest.
5. The Footbath (Ashiyu): Perfect for hikers starting or ending their summit attempt.
The minerals act as a natural antiseptic and circulation booster, providing a warmth that lasts long after you dry off—a vital trait for survival during the legendary Iwate winters.

Top Recommended Stay: Kyukamura Amihari-Onsen

• Kyukamura Amihari-Onsen (休暇村 網張温泉): The central hub for wellness and lodging. This national park resort offers modern, spacious Japanese and Western-style rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Shizukuishi valley. The dining hall is a highlight, serving a world-class “Alpine Buffet” featuring local Shizukuishi beef, forest mushrooms, and award-winning dairy. It is the premier choice for international families and trekkers who want absolute convenience and high-quality mineral access. Note: Guests have 24-hour access to multiple baths, allowing for “Sunrise Soaks” that are a photographer’s dream.

Must-Visit Neighborhood Spots: Summits and Waterfalls

Mt. Iwate Summit Trail: One of the four main routes to the summit (2,038m) starts directly at Amihari. A challenging 4-5 hour climb through volcanic ash fields and alpine flora.
Amihari Forest Path: A series of wooden boardwalks wind through the birch forest behind the onsen lodge—perfect for forest bathing (Shinrin-yoku).
Shizukuishi Ski Resort (Nearby): A 15-minute drive takes you to world-class groomed slopes and Japan’s best backcountry “Cat Skiing” terrain.
Koiwai Farm: Located 20 minutes down the mountain, one of Japan’s most historic private farms, famous for its dairy and “One Tree” scenery.

Local Gastronomy: The Bounty of the Shizukuishi Highlands

Food at Amihari is defined by its extreme altitude and the richness of the volcanic soil.
Shizukuishi Beef: A premium wagyu known for its tenderness and sweet fat. Try the “Shizukuishi Steak” at the resort restaurant.
Horo-ho-ro-cho (Guinea Fowl): A rare poultry specialty of the Hachimantai/Shizukuishi region.
Vegetarian/Vegan Survival:
For Vegans: This area is a leader in Forest Roots and Soybeans. At the resort, request the “Mountain Vegetable Buffet” and specify “Katsuo-dashi nuki” (No fish dashi). The local “Shizukuishi Tofu” is famous for its dense texture. We recommend buying the local Haskap Berry products—a northern super-fruit that is 100% vegan.

Cultural & Historical Context

The history of Amihari Onsen is tied to the spiritual mountain-worship (*Sangaku Shinko*) of Tohoku. For centuries, it was a restricted sanctuary where only those authorized by the Nanbu lords could enter. The name “網張” (Amihari) honors the spiritual barrier that kept the world’s greed away from the healing waters. In the Meiji era, it became a center for pioneering explorers and botanists mapping the northern mountains. Today, it stands as a symbol of Iwate’s resilience—a place that preserves its unpolished, traditional soul while welcoming global explorers seeking mineral and spiritual purity.

Practical Travel Tips for International Visitors

• Tattoo Policy: Kyukamura Amihari-Onsen is an international-standard resort and is very tattoo-friendly. Small tattoos are ignored, and large pieces are generally accepted in the communal baths if the guest follows basic etiquette. Private baths are not available, but the facility is spacious enough for privacy.
• Connectivity: Mobile signal is stable near the lodge, but zero signal on the mountain trails. Wi-Fi is available in all guest rooms, making it a spectacular “Workation” destination.
• Cash & Payments: Fully modern. Major credit cards and Apple Pay are accepted at the resort. However, local buses and small mountain stalls are strictly cash-only (JPY).
• Access Advice: If arriving by Shinkansen, get off at **JR Morioka Station**. The resort provides a free shuttle bus (reservation required). A **rental car** is highly recommended if you want to explore the distant waterfalls and farm shops.

2025-2026 Latest Updates

In 2025, Amihari Onsen launched the “Zero-Carbon Alpine Trail,” providing electric shuttle buses between the trailhead and the onsen to reduce noise and emissions. For the 2026 season, new “Moonlight Observation Decks” are being installed near the outdoor bath area to take advantage of the region’s zero light pollution.

Safety & Manners

In the acidic sulfur baths, remove all silver jewelry as it will turn black instantly. Always wash your body thoroughly before entering the communal tub. Because the water is opaque, walk carefully to find the submerged steps. Be “Bear Aware”—carry a bear bell if you are hiking the alpine trails alone. Finally, respect the quiet; many hikers stay here for the silence of the mountains, so keep conversations in the communal baths to a respectful whisper.