Makukawa Onsen (幕川温泉)

Introduction: The Subalpine Sanctuary of the Tsuchiyu Pass Terminus

Located at the absolute dead-end of a winding mountain road, 1,300 meters above sea level within the Bandai-Asahi National Park, lies Makukawa Onsen (幕川温泉). This is one of the highest and most secluded hot spring resorts in Northern Japan, offering a climate that is consistently 10 degrees cooler than the lowlands—making it a vital thermal refuge during the humid Japanese summer. Makukawa is defined by its dramatic position at the edge of a primary beech forest (buna), where the sound of the wind through the leaves and the rhythmic roar of the nearby Maku Falls create a symphony of natural isolation. For the international traveler, Makukawa provides a profound encounter with “Hitou” (Secret Spring) culture. It features two distinct water sources—an acidic, milky-white sulfur spring and a neutral, drinkable simple spring—allowing for a diverse balneological experience within a single facility. To soak here is to stand at the subalpine frontier of Tohoku’s thermal excellence, where volcanic energy and forest serenity converge.

Key Information Table

The Healing Waters: A Symphony of Sulfur and Cypress

The water at Makukawa Onsen is geologically prized for its “Dual-Action” properties. The facility manages two separate underground veins that offer contrasting therapeutic experiences:

1. The White Sulfur Spring: Found primarily in the outdoor Rotenburo, this water is acidic (pH 4.0) and rich in hydrogen sulfide. Upon contact with air, the minerals precipitate into “Yunohana” (hot spring flowers), turning the water into a thick, opaque milky-white. This acidity provides strong antibacterial effects and facilitates the removal of dead skin cells, leaving the body feeling refreshed and detoxified.

2. The Neutral Simple Spring: Utilized in the indoor Hinoki (cypress) tubs, this water is so pure it is officially designated as drinkable. Consuming small amounts at the source is historically believed to improve chronic gastrointestinal disorders and regulate blood sugar.
The sensory experience is defined by the fragrance of aromatic cedar wood and the visual contrast of the white water against the deep emerald greens of the surrounding beech forest.

Top Recommended Stays: Guardians of the Pass

• Yoshikuraya (幕川温泉 吉倉屋旅館): Famous for its indoor baths built from ancient Japanese cypress and its legendary outdoor tub set directly within the forest. Staying here is an exercise in “Shinrin-yoku” (forest bathing), where guests can hear the local wildlife while soaking in mineral energy.
• Mitoya Ryokan (幕川温泉 水戸屋旅館): A family-run lodge that prioritizes a “Retro Showa” atmosphere. It is one of the few high-altitude inns that is pet-friendly, allowing international travelers to explore the Fukushima highlands with their companions. They are famous for their “800-year-old outdoor bath” made of local river stones.

Must-Visit Neighborhood Spots: Waterfalls and Rainbows

Maku Falls (幕滝): A spectacular 30-meter high waterfall accessible via a 20-minute hiking trail from the hot spring district. On clear mornings, the mist from the falls often creates vibrant rainbows, making it a premier spot for nature photography.

Tsuchiyu Roadside Station: Located 30 minutes down the mountain, this is the best place to buy local Sansai (wild vegetables) and traditional Kokeshi dolls before or after your visit.

Bandai-Azuma Skyline: Makukawa serves as a critical junction for this world-class driving route, connecting you to the volcanic craters of Mt. Azuma-Kofuji.

Local Gastronomy & Souvenirs: The Forest Feast

Dining at Makukawa is defined by the high altitude and the bounty of the beech forest.
Iwana (Char): Salt-grilled river fish slow-cooked over charcoal embers, a staple of the ryokan dinner service.
Vegetarian/Vegan Survival:
The region is a leader in Sansai (Wild Mountain Vegetables). During the spring and summer, ryokans serve delicate tempura made from ostrich ferns (kogomi) and bamboo shoots. For strict vegans, specify “Konbu-dashi nuki” (No fish stock) when booking; the local “Miso Kanpura” (small fried potatoes with sweet miso) is a 100% plant-based local favorite that is both filling and nutritious.

Practical Travel Tips for International Visitors

• Tattoo Policy: Both Yoshikuraya and Mitoya are very discreet. Small tattoos are generally accepted. For large pieces, using the private family baths or choosing a room with a private tub is recommended to ensure a stress-free experience.
• Connectivity: Mobile signal is very weak at 1,300 meters. This is an intentional “Digital Detox” zone. High-speed Wi-Fi is available at the Jododaira Visitor Center nearby.
• Cash & Payments: While larger hotels take cards, the entry fee for day-trip baths and local bus fares are strictly cash-only (JPY).
• Rental Car: A 4WD vehicle is highly recommended even in late spring, as the mountain pass can be slippery. Note that the road is strictly closed from mid-November to mid-April.

2025-2026 Latest Updates

In 2025, Makukawa Onsen launched the “Rainbow Forest Trekking” program, a guided tour to Maku Falls with a focus on negative-ion wellness. For the 2026 season, new EV (Electric Vehicle) charging points are being finalized at the base of the pass to support sustainable mountain tourism.

Safety & Manners

Because the water is high in sulfur, it will permanently tarnish silver jewelry. Remove all rings and necklaces before entering. Also, the mountain is an active Bear Habitat; if you hike to Maku Falls, it is mandatory to wear a bear bell or make frequent noise.