Yuze Hotel

Yuze Hotel (Shikisai Irodori Akita-zukushi) is a hotel surrounded by rich hot spring waters, the soothing sounds of a mountain stream, and vast natural scenery. Access is about 55 km from Owani-Hirosaki IC on the Tohoku Expressway, taking roughly 35 minutes by car. The hotel is also in a great location for exploring signature sightseeing spots of Northern Tohoku: it is a 3-minute walk to the Yuze Gorge Promenade, selected among the "New Tourism Akita 30 Scenic Spots," and about a 25-minute drive to the venue of Hanawa Bayashi, one of Japan’s three great festival music traditions, held every year on August 19 and 20 and known for its unique set of 12 pieces with distinctive rhythm and melody. The hot spring name "Yuze" is said to come from the idea that "hot water sprang out from the river shallows." The baths are known for abundant water and a gentle feel on the skin. In the open-air bath, you can listen to the stream while taking in the trees covering the mountainsides and the seasonal changes with all five senses. During heavy rains, multiple waterfalls can appear, and the gentle stream can transform into a powerful torrent—offering a close-up view of nature’s grandeur and depth. Dining includes a creative buffet and Japanese set meals made with seasonal Akita ingredients, featuring the slightly richer Northern Tohoku seasoning style and dishes that highlight local foods in a deep-mountain Akita spirit. You can enjoy the gifts of the Towada-Hachimantai region—local vegetables, wild mountain plants, and delicacies—such as the famous kiritanpo nabe, said to have originated in the Kazuno area.