TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Hanamaki Onsen (Hanamaki Onsenkyo) is the general term for hot springs in Hanamaki City, Iwate Prefecture, and is an area with several inns, hotels, and day-trip bathing facilities. Hanamaki is known as the birthplace of poet and children's story writer Miyazawa Kenji, and the hot springs have developed as a tourist destination. The quality of the hot spring water varies depending on the facility, but many are gentle on the skin, such as bicarbonate springs and alkaline simple springs, and the area's appeal lies in its relaxing baths and the ability to enjoy the changing scenery of the four seasons.
Highlights
- A variety of spring qualities and hot springs to explore: Hanamaki Onsenkyo has several inns and lodgings, each with its own unique baths, including large public baths, open-air baths, and garden baths.
- Meals at the hot spring inn: Enjoy kaiseki cuisine made with local seafood and mountain produce (river fish, wild vegetables, Iwate beef, etc.). The menu makes the most of seasonal ingredients.
- Sightseeing related to Miyazawa Kenji: Hanamaki has many spots related to Miyazawa Kenji, and you can combine your stay at the hot springs with a visit to the fairy tale village and memorial museum.
- Seasonal scenery: Enjoy the changing seasons from the open-air bath, including the fresh greenery of spring, the autumn leaves, and the snowy scenery of winter. The snow-viewing bath is popular in winter.
- Day-trip bathing and foot baths: Some facilities offer day-trip plans and foot bath spots that are convenient for travelers who are short on time.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest Shinkansen Station: JR Tohoku Shinkansen "Shin-Hanamaki Station" or "Shinkansen Stop (Shin-Hanamaki)" are the closest Shinkansen stations. From Shin-Hanamaki Station, you can travel by taxi, local bus, or hotel shuttle.
- Conventional lines and local stations: Accessible by bus or taxi from Hanamaki Station on the JR Tohoku Main Line and surrounding stations.
- By car: Approximately 20-30 minutes by car from Hanamaki IC on the Tohoku Expressway (varies depending on traffic conditions). Many accommodations have parking lots, making it convenient to access by car.
- Airport access: From Iwate Hanamaki Airport, you can travel by rental car, airport limousine bus, or taxi. Travel time will vary depending on the mode of transportation.
- Please note: The number of buses available varies by region and time of day, so we recommend checking in advance whether a shuttle service is available to suit your arrival time and the timetable.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip bathing: Recommended stay is 2 to 4 hours (including bathing, meals, and walking around the area).
- Two days and one night: We recommend the standard plan of relaxing at the hot springs and sightseeing in the surrounding area (Miyazawa Kenji Memorial Museum, sightseeing in Hanamaki city, etc.) on the next day. You can enjoy visiting the hot springs, dining, and sightseeing in the surrounding area in one night.
- Tips for staying: If you want to relax, we recommend staying at least one night, but if you want to enjoy the hot springs and sightseeing in the area, two nights or more is ideal.
Nearby spots
- Miyazawa Kenji Fairy Tale Village and Miyazawa Kenji Memorial Museum: A representative tourist spot in Hanamaki. It has a wide range of exhibits on the world of Kenji's works and materials, making it easy to combine with a stay at a hot spring.
- Hanamaki city center: Dotted with historical buildings, local restaurants, souvenir shops, and more.
- Natural scenic spots: Parks and valleys where you can enjoy seasonal scenery (check out walking spots according to the season you visit).
- Around Iwate Hanamaki Airport: Sightseeing and dining spots are also available for airport users.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: Accommodation and day-trip facilities are crowded during peak tourist seasons such as Golden Week, summer vacation, New Year's, and autumn foliage season. We recommend making reservations in advance, especially on weekends and long holidays.
- Bathing etiquette: Please observe general hot spring etiquette (pouring water over yourself before entering the bath, not putting towels in the bath, being considerate of the order and volume of people in the washing area).
- Regarding tattoos: Some facilities may restrict bathing for people with tattoos. Please check with the accommodation or facility in advance. Some facilities offer stickers or small marks to cover tattoos, but it is important to check.
- Clothing and preparation: If you are going for a day trip, we recommend bringing luggage that will fit in a locker. In winter, you may need to take precautions against snow (non-slip shoes, chains, etc.).
- Transportation: There are times when there are fewer buses running, so it's a good idea to check in advance whether there is a shuttle service and how to arrange a taxi.
- Consideration for the natural environment: Please respect the nature around the open-air baths and the inn's gardens. Please be considerate and take your trash home with you or dispose of it in the designated area.
*Specific accommodation names, pick-up times, bus routes, and fares may vary depending on the facility and the season. Please check the official website or accommodation for the latest information before visiting.
