Utto Onsen (打当温泉)

Utto Onsen: The “Matagi” Secret and the Soul of the Bear Hunters

Deep in the Moriyoshi mountains of Kitaakita lies one of Japan’s most culturally unique destinations: Utto Onsen. This is the heart of “Matagi” country—the legendary winter hunters who have lived in harmony with the mountains for centuries, following a strict code of spiritual ethics and respect for the Asian Black Bear. Utto Onsen, often called Matagi-no-yu, is not just a hot spring; it is a gateway into a forgotten world of survival and spiritualism. For the global adventurer seeking an “Off-the-Grid” experience, Utto offers powerful saline waters, a dedicated Matagi museum, and the chance to taste the wild flavors of the Akita highlands.

Key Information Table

The Healing Waters: The “Warrior’s Salt”

The water at Utto Onsen is geologically prized for its extreme mineral density. Classified as a Strong Sodium-Chloride Spring, it is effectively a mineral-rich soup of ancient earth elements.
The Warming Effect: The high salt concentration prevents the evaporation of body heat. For the Matagi hunters returning from a sub-zero hunt in the Moriyoshi snow, this water was essential for preventing hypothermia and soothing frostbitten limbs.
Atmospheric Soaking: The indoor tubs are made of fragrant wood, and the Rotenburo (outdoor bath) overlooks the deep Ani forest. The water has a slight amber tint and a clean, salty scent. Balneologically, this is one of the most “energy-dense” springs in Tohoku, providing a deep detox that lasts for days.

Top Recommended Stays & Bases

• 打当温泉 マタギの湯 (Utto Onsen Matagi-no-yu): The heart of the Matagi experience. It includes an on-site museum and serves traditional hunter cuisine. It is the definitive stay for international cultural explorers.
• Ani Forest Lodge: A rustic option for those who want a cabin-style stay in the mountains.
• Moriyoshi Sanso (Nearby): A mountain hotel located at the foot of Mt. Moriyoshi, famous for its easy access to the “Snow Monsters” (Juhyo) in winter.
• Aniai Station Guest Houses: Located in the town center, these offer a base for those traveling on the scenic Nairiku Railway.
• Nearby Secret Springs: Combine Utto with a visit to the nearby Somayama Onsen for a truly remote “Double Soak” weekend.

Must-Visit Neighborhood Spots: Bear Museums and Snow Monsters

Matagi Museum: Located within the Matagi-no-yu complex. See the tools, clothing, and history of the Ani Matagi hunters. It is a profound look into a culture that views the mountain as a deity.
Mt. Moriyoshi Juhyo (Snow Monsters): In winter, the trees on Mt. Moriyoshi are covered in ice and snow, creating massive, humanoid shapes. A gondola ride from the Ani Ski Resort takes you directly to this surreal landscape.
Ani Ski Resort: A hidden gem for powder snow lovers, offering uncrowded slopes and spectacular views of the Ou Mountain Range.

Local Gastronomy: Wild Game and Mountain Bounty

The food in Utto is defined by the Matagi Jibie (wild game) tradition.
Bear Stew (Kumajiru): A rare delicacy made with mountain vegetables and bear meat (believed to have medicinal properties).
Vegetarian/Vegan Survival:
For Vegans: While meat is central to Matagi history, the “Gathering” side of their culture is equally rich. Request the “Matagi Sansai Feast”—specify “Niku-nuki, Katsuo-dashi nuki” (No meat, no fish dashi). The local “Moriyoshi Mushrooms” and “Wild Walnut Rice” are exceptional. We also recommend “Butter-mochi”—a local specialty (contains dairy/egg, check for strict vegans) or fresh mountain berry jams.

Cultural & Historical Context

“Matagi” comes from a word meaning “Forest Person.” These hunters believe they are guests of the mountain gods. The Utto area has been their sanctuary for over 500 years. The onsen was discovered by hunters who noticed wounded animals healing themselves in the steam. Today, the village of Utto remains a symbol of Japan’s deep-forest resilience—a place where the rules of the modern city are replaced by the ancient laws of the mountain.

Practical Travel Tips for International Visitors

• Tattoo Policy: Matagi-no-yu is very tattoo-friendly. Because the Matagi culture itself has historically used markings, international guests with tattoos are generally welcomed without stickers.
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available in the main lounge, but mobile signal can be zero on the high mountain trails. Download offline maps before leaving Aniai.
• Cash & Payments: The main hotel accepts credit cards. However, the Nairiku Railway and local mountain snack stalls are strictly cash-only (JPY).
• Transport: The Akita Nairiku Railway is one of the most scenic in Japan. Use the “Animatagi Station” and call the hotel for a free shuttle.

2025-2026 Latest Updates

In February 2025, Utto will host the “Matagi Fire Festival,” where hunters perform traditional rituals to thank the mountain gods. For the 2026 season, new “Forest Survival Workshops” are being launched, allowing international guests to learn Matagi tracking and plant identification techniques (non-hunting).

Safety & Manners

The Ani mountains are a Wilderness Zone. Never hike alone and always carry a bear bell. In the onsen, do not put your towel in the water. Respect the silence of the forest; Utto is a place for contemplation, so keep noise levels low in the open-air baths. During winter, the snowfall can exceed 4 meters—stay on the marked roads if driving.