Tsurunoyu Onsen

Tsurunoyu Onsen is a hot spring in Akita Prefecture. It is part of the Nyuto Onsenkyo hot spring area near the foot of Mt. Nyuto. The four baths at Tsurunoyu Onsen all feature different water compositions and provide various health benefits. In the 17th century, when the area was developed, a hunter is said to have observed a crane healing its wounds in the hot water of the spring: this gave the onsen its name, 'crane bath' (tsuru no yu). A highlight of the onsen it is outside bath (rotenburo) which gives you the impression of bring in the middle of nature, far from human civilization. This area of Akita has lots of snow in winter, making the hot spring particularly attractive during the cold season. You can also try local specialties, such as hot pot (nabe) here.