Tazawako Kogen Onsen (田沢湖高原温泉)

Introduction: The Grand Panorama Sanctuary and the “White Silk” of the Akita Sky

Perched high on the volcanic shoulder of Mt. Akita-Komagatake, at an elevation that offers a bird’s-eye view of Japan’s deepest lake, lies Tazawako Kogen Onsen (田沢湖高原温泉). This hot spring enclave is the strategic “Sky Sanctuary” of the region. While Mizusawa sits in the forest and Nyuto hides in the valley, Tazawako Kogen represents the peak of visual grandeur and resort comfort. Developed in the 1960s to capitalize on the stunning vistas of Lake Tazawa, the onsen is world-famous for its milky-white sulfur waters which are piped directly from the high volcanic sources of the mountain. For the international traveler, Tazawako Kogen Onsen offers a profound sensory encounter with the “Heroic North.” It is a place to soak in “Medicine Waters” while watching the sunset turn the sapphire lake into a mirror of gold, breathe in the high-oxygen air of the sub-alpine tundra, and enjoy a level of sophisticated hospitality that serves as the perfect base for alpine adventures. It is the ultimate choice for those seeking absolute horizons and world-class thermal healing.

Key Information Table

The Healing Waters: The “White Nectar” of the High Slopes

The water at Tazawako Kogen Onsen is geologically intense, drawn from the “Akayu” source located high on Mt. Komagatake. It is a powerful Sulfur Spring.
The Visuals: The water is legendary for its opacity. It emerges from the ground and turns a striking, opaque milky-white or pale turquoise as it reacts with the high-altitude oxygen.
The Healing Effect: The sulfur acts as a powerful antiseptic and vasodilator, significantly boosting blood circulation and promoting the healing of skin ailments—the definitive “Medicine Bath.”
The Sensation: The minerals are used in a 100% natural flow system (Gensen Kakenagashi). The outdoor Rotenburo baths in this area are designed to maximize the view. Soaking here in winter, as the steam rises against the backdrop of the sapphire-blue Lake Tazawa and the white snow caps of the Ou mountains, is a spiritual experience of the highest order. The high mineral density ensures your core body temperature stays elevated for hours after you dry off.

Top 5 Recommended Stays in Tazawako Kogen

• Plaza Hotel Sanrokuso (プラザホテル山麓荘): Address: 2-14 Tazawako Tazawa Sendatsuzawa. The most established resort in the area. It features a massive “Enju” wooden bathhouse and spectacular local buffets. It is the premier choice for international families and groups seeking high-value comfort.
• Tazawako View Hotel: True to its name, this hotel offers the best panoramic views of the lake from its guest rooms and outdoor baths. Ideal for photographers and romantic couples.
• Hotel Grand天空 (Hotel Grand Tenku): A high-end resort that emphasizes “Life Above the Clouds.” It offers modern suites and world-class kaiseki dining featuring Akita beef.
• Tazawako Highland Guesthouses: Several small, friendly guest houses in the plateau area offer an affordable, social alternative for solo hikers and backpackers.
• Arupako (Lodge): A cozy, mountain-hut style lodge popular with serious climbers and botanical enthusiasts aiming for the Mt. Komagatake trails.

Must-Visit Neighborhood Spots: Blue Lakes and Volcanoes

Lake Tazawa (Tazawako): Located 10 minutes down the mountain. Visit the **Goza-no-ishi Shrine** on the northern shore for the most spiritual connection to the water.
Mt. Akita-Komagatake Trailhead: Located at the 8th station, reachable by bus from the Kogen area. It is one of Japan’s top mountains for alpine flowers and active volcanic scenery.
Tazawako Ski Resort: Directly accessible from the Kogen district. In winter, this is one of the best spots for “Lake-view Skiing.”
Alpa-Komakusa: A high-altitude rest house and onsen museum located in the center of the district, offering great day-trip baths and hiking information.

Local Gastronomy: The Bounty of the “High Plateau”

Tazawako Kogen’s food is defined by its agricultural richness and the “Snow Country” spirit.
Tazawako Beef: Locally raised wagyu known for its tenderness and sweet fat. Try the “Beef Shabu-shabu” at the resort restaurants.
Kiritanpo: Try the local “Kiritanpo-nabe” (rice stick hot pot) or “Miso-uke” (grilled rice sticks with miso).
Vegetarian/Vegan Survival: This area is a leader in Soy and Mountain Vegetable (Sansai) production.
For Vegans: Try the local “Highland Tofu” and request “Vegetable-only Tempura” (ensure no egg in batter). The nearby farmer’s market (Michi-no-Eki) sells fresh seasonal corn and potatoes which are 100% vegan treasures. We recommend buying the local “Haskap Berry” juice as a high-vitamin vegan treat.

Cultural & Historical Context

The name “Tazawako” refers to the “lake of fields.” Historically, the Ainu people recognized the plateau as a place where the spirits of the volcano and the lake met. Tazawako Kogen was developed as part of a post-war tourism initiative to turn the beautiful highlands into a world-class health resort. Today, it remains a symbol of Akita’s modern sophistication—a place that preserves its traditional “Toji” (healing) roots while welcoming the global community with five-star service.

Practical Travel Tips for International Visitors

• Tattoo Policy: The larger resorts (Sanrokuso, Tenku) are very international and extremely tattoo-friendly. Small tattoos are ignored, and large pieces are generally accepted in the communal baths. Private baths (Kashikiri) are also available.
• Language Support: Excellent. This is Akita’s top international tourist hub, with English-speaking staff available at major hotels and the Ski Resort.
• Cash & Payments: Major hotels accept credit cards. However, the day-trip bath ticket machines and the local bus (Soya Bus) are strictly cash-only (JPY). Withdraw cash at JR Tazawako Station.
• Winter Access: **CRITICAL.** The road is plowed daily but expert winter driving skills are required. Using the “Nyuto-go” shuttle bus is highly recommended over a rental car during the blizzard season (Jan-Feb).

2025-2026 Latest Updates

In 2025, Tazawako Kogen Onsen launched the “Lake-Mirror Sunrise Walk,” featuring guided walks to the lake’s observation deck followed by a special “Plateau Breakfast.” For the 2026 season, new “Moonlight Observation Decks” are being installed at the hotels to take advantage of the region’s zero light pollution.

Safety & Manners

In the sulfur-rich onsen, remove all silver jewelry as it will turn black instantly. Always rinse your body thoroughly before entering the 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 guests travel for days for the silence of the mountains, so keep noise levels to a minimum after 9:00 PM.