Nestled in the deep mountains of Akita Prefecture, Nyuto Onsen-kyo exudes unique charm with Ogama Onsen, a secret hot spring conveying the atmosphere of Showa as if time has stood still. The wooden school building, relocated from an old elementary school, evokes a sense of nostalgia.
The essence of Ogama Onsen is its hot spring, rich in iron and exuding a subtle sulfur scent. Both indoor baths and open-air baths have hot water that warms the body from within, bringing sweat to a halt. Enjoying the only footbath in Nyuto Onsen-kyo is another delightful point.
The cuisine at Ogama Onsen utilizes local ingredients, with mountain vegetables and sweetfish dishes being particularly exquisite. Simple yet delicious meals make you forget the hustle and bustle of the city.
The lodging facilities at Ogama Onsen stand apart from modern luxury, offering a Showa retro vibe. Features include shared toilets and washrooms, and rooms without air conditioning, presenting simple accommodations. Yet this simplicity is precisely what provides the charm of a hot spring trip unattainable in the city. This is why it is referred to as a "school educational event-like lodging."
In the summer, there are many insects, and as windows cannot be opened, rooms can become stuffy. It may not be suitable as a summer retreat. Rather, the period from autumn to spring offers a more comfortable stay.
Many might associate Nyuto Onsen-kyo with milky-white hot springs. In reality, only Tsurunoyu has milky-white water, while Ogama Onsen offers a different spring quality. For hot spring enthusiasts, this diversity may be the true allure of Nyuto Onsen-kyo.
Ogama Onsen provides a genuine hot spring experience distinct from modern luxury hot spring inns. It may not suit those seeking luxurious amenities, but for those who wish to enjoy the charm of the hot spring itself and the traditional atmosphere of hot spring inns, it is the perfect place. A place to forget time, and immerse oneself in nature and hot springs. That is Ogama Onsen.