Akami Onsen (赤見温泉)

Introduction: The Crystal Waters and Rust-Red Springs of the Benzaiten Sanctuary

Located in the historic city of Sano, at the base of the sacred Izuru mountains, lies Akami Onsen (赤見温泉). This destination is a study in visual and spiritual contrast. On one side, it is home to the **Izuruhara Benten Pond**, designated as one of Japan’s “100 Most Beautiful Waters” for its absolute transparency and vibrant carp. On the other, the onsen itself is famous for its **Amber-Red waters**, rich in minerals that oxidize to a deep rust color upon meeting the air.[9, 10] For the international traveler, Akami Onsen offers a profound encounter with Japanese folk religion and natural purity. It is a place to walk the suspended “hanging” halls of the **Isoyama Benzaiten Shrine**, soak in rare therapeutic minerals, and dine on fresh trout raised in the very waters you admire.[11, 12] Akami is a sanctuary where the spirit of the water is felt in every breath.

Key Information Table

The Healing Waters: The “Iron and Sulfur” Vitality

Akami Onsen is geologically prized for its **Reddish-Brown Water**, a phenomenon caused by the iron content oxidizing after it surfaces.[9] It is technically an **Amber Sulfur Spring**.
The Skin Softener: The presence of sulfur provides a strong anti-inflammatory and disinfecting effect, making it highly sought after for treating chronic skin conditions like psoriasis or acne.[10, 13]
The Warming Effect: The salt (chloride) content creates a microscopic mineral veil on your skin, which acts as a thermal insulator. This ensures that your core temperature stays elevated long after you have left the bath—a vital property for winter visitors.[13]
Caution: Because of the iron and tannin synergy, drinking tea or coffee immediately after using the **Drinking Onsen (Insen)** may temporarily blacken your teeth or tongue. It is harmless but surprising![9]

Top Recommended Stays: Nature and Tradition

• Akami Onsen Koenso (赤見温泉公園荘): Address: 1120-2 Izuruhara. The premier base for international tourists. It is located right next to the Benten Pond and features spectacular riverside views. Their restaurant is world-famous for its **Rainbow Trout** (Nijimasu) cuisine, utilizing the pure Izuruhara spring water.
• CANDEO HOTELS Sano (Nearby): Located 15 minutes away near the expressway, offering a 4-star modern “Sky Spa” experience for those who want a western hotel standard with views of the Sano landscape.
• Super Hotel Sano Fujioka (Nearby): A highly-rated (4.2/5) eco-hotel that features its own natural hot springs (Hideyato-no-Yu) and is noted for its sustainability initiatives.

Must-Visit Neighborhood Spots: Floating Shrines and Sacred Ponds

Izuruhara Benten Pond: An ancient spring that yields 2,400 tons of crystal-clear water every day. The pond is home to massive koi fish and creates a mirror-like reflection of the surrounding forest.
Isoyama Benzaiten Shrine: A stunning temple built into the mountainside using the *Kake-zukuri* (hanging) architectural style similar to Kyoto’s Kiyomizu-dera. The panoramic view of the Sano valley from the wooden balcony is incomparable.
Akami Fishing Flower Park: A family-friendly spot where you can catch your own trout and have it grilled on the spot over charcoal—a great “Survival Skills” experience for children.[12]

Local Gastronomy: Sano Ramen and Tofu Artistry

Sano is famous across Japan for its “Bamboo-hit” (Aatake-uchi) ramen noodles.
Sano Ramen: Characterized by its wavy, soft noodles and clear, soy-based broth. Many shops now offer “Green Sano Ramen” utilizing local vegetables.
Vegetarian/Vegan Survival:
ILOHA -168- (やさい専科): Located near Sano City Hall, this is an **All-Plant-Based** restaurant. They serve a signature “Ichiju-Sansai Plate” using enzyme-fermented brown rice and soy-meat nuggets that are indistinguishable from chicken.
Mame-no-hana (豆の花): A high-end tofu specialty shop and restaurant that serves multi-course “Tofu Kaiseki.” They use the pure Benten waters to create the creamiest yuba (soy milk skin) in the region.
Vegan Tip: Buy the handmade **Fried Abura-age** at the pond-side market—it is naturally vegan and perfect for a snack (ask for salt instead of fish-dashi sauce).

Cultural & Historical Context: The Water of Longevity

The name “Akami” refers to the “Red Beauty” of the water. Historically, this was a sacred site where travelers would stop to purify themselves before entering the deep mountains of Tochigi. The Benzaiten deity enshrined here is the goddess of everything that flows—water, music, and wealth. The onsen culture is an extension of this blessing, viewed as a gift from the goddess to ensure the health and longevity of the local residents.[12]

Practical Travel Tips for International Visitors

• Tattoo Policy: Koenso follows traditional guidelines; large tattoos are generally prohibited in the communal bath. However, they are very welcoming to international guests and offer **Private Family Baths** where tattoos are ignored.[15, 16, 17]
• Cash & Payments: While major hotels like CANDEO accept cards, the local fishing park and small ramen shops are **Strictly Cash-Only**. Carry JPY 10,000 for a day trip.
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi is reliable at the pond-side cafe, but the shrine area has weak mobile reception. Download your maps before ascending the Benzaiten stairs.[3, 18]

2025-2026 Latest Updates

Izuruhara Light-up 2025-2026: From **November 2025 through February 2026**, the Benten Pond and Isoyama Shrine are illuminated with thousands of LED lights from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, creating a surreal night-time water world.

Safety & Manners

Shrine Etiquette: When climbing to Isoyama Benzaiten, please do not wear revealing clothing, as it is an active site of worship.
Onsen Warning: Because the water is rich in iron, it can stain white towels. Use the **small towels provided** for the bath and keep your personal expensive towels in the locker.[9, 13]