A Lunch and Bathing to Try Therapeutic Tamagawa Hot Spring Water

Tamagawa Onsen is popular for those who seek for hydrotherapy treatment!

 

In the recent article in JAL SKYWARD (June 2011 issue, page 19), Tamagawa Onsen is introduced as an excellent example of healing benefits. Mr. Muraki Katsumasa, the sales manager of Tamagawa Onsen, says in an interview that it is one of the only 2 locations in the world to find the hokutolite (the mildly active mineral designated as the protected by the government). The hot spring water in Tamagawa has the highest acidic content in Japan, which is said to be possibly beneficial for skin problems and stomach problems. (However, it is also known that it is highly dependable on the sensitivity of your health condition.)

JAL SKYWARD June 2011 Issue Page 19

Besides the hydrotherapy introduced in the article, Tamagawa Onsen is known for the birthplace of ganbanyoku experience – guests lay down on the mildly active bedrocks for a short time to relax because it is believed to be effective to boost your metabolism. (Note: it is not scientifically nor medically proven, and it again depends on the individuals.)

Shin-Tamagawa Onsen （新玉川温泉）is another facility under the same management, which was built due to the popularity and high demand. It is about 3km away from Tamagawa Onsen but features the same hot spring water and in 7 different bathing areas!

If you are interested in trying the hot spring of Tamagawa Onsen, here is what we recommend:

Bathing and Lunch at Shin-Tamagawa Onsen

Available from June 1st to August 30th. (11:00 – 14:00)

Prices at 3,000Yen (A bento box with Nishiki Beef) and 1,500 Yen (Lunch of the Day)

A Nishiki Beef Bento Box for 3,000 Yen and it includes a bathing fee!

To reserve, please contact TABIYORI, Semboku City Tourist Information Center.



Steaming Sulphur Vents of Tamagawa

Tamagawa Onsen (玉川温泉） is one of Japan’s most picturesque hot springs, which a violent volcanic activity is closely observed. Next to the headspring, ohbuki　（大噴）, which releases as much as 9,000 liters of radioactive, strong acidic water every minute, there are many yellow rocks with constant gush of steams—fumaroles are the vents that releases steam with crystals formed by condensation of sulfuric gas. The scenery is simply marvelous!

The stream from the headspring, ohbuki, is violent but beautiful!

Stay away. Stay behind the ropes.

Crystalized sulphurs are beautiful on the contrast with the grey earth.

There are more than 100 fumaroles (funkikou) here,

which releases toxic natural gas over 100 degree in Celsius. Stay away.

Some say that it is a reminder of this lively earth. Some others say it looks like another planet. Whatever they may say, you have to see them in person.

More than a hundred of fumaroles exists over the area. Every morning the level of natural gas is measured in order to ensure the safety of guests; but remember—it is natural and could be impulsive!! The ropes are set off so that the guests do not approach the danger too close, but please beware.

BE AWARE! STAY BEHIND THE ROPES!

Otherwise, Tamagawa Onsen is nothing but a unique place which Japan is proud of. The access is not the most convenient, but it is worth a visit. Make sure to plan ahead!

Tamagawa Onsen's Headspring:Ohbuki

Tamagawa Onsen （玉川温泉） is a hotspring located in Tamagawa area about an hour away from JR Tazawako Station. It is known for the most acidic mineral water found in Japan (P.H. 1.05) and for the largest amount of water produced from the headspring (9,000 liter/minute).

Tammagawa Hot Spring in Semboku City, Akita Prefecture, Japan.

The headspring, as is shown in the photo below, violently produces the large amount of water. It is called obuki (大噴), which literally translates to “the Great Jet.”

The headspring is located near the radioactive ganban （岩盤）bedrock where people rest for the benefit of relaxation for the spa and treatment purposes. Tamagawa Onsen is known as the original spa location which triggered the recent boom of gaban-yoku (radioactive hot rock spa) throughout the country.

People lay to rest near the headspring. The bedrock is warm and radioactive.

When you arrive at Tamagawa Onsen (take a bus from JR Tazawako Station or drive), the walkway is easily found located across from the buildings. Just follow the path and you will see it in a few minutes.

The strong acid water is rich in sulfuric acid, iron (II), aluminum, and chloride. The original water is transparent and no color, with odor from hydrogen sulfide. It is said to be most effective in sterilizing many kinds of germs that cause skin diseases.

Near ohbuki

Violent streams of hot spring water.

Yu-no-hana is the foam formed by crystalization of minerals in hot spring water.

The original temperature is 95 degree in Celsius (203 degree in Fahrenheit), which cools down to 39 degree in Celsius (102 degree in Fahrenheit). The water along with the bedrock is radioactive, which is also another reason why the hot spring is particularly popular for people under specific treatment. The public bathing area is located in the building.

The headspring can be seen from a walkway over the fence. Please remember that the volcanic activity is caused unpredictably with emission of natural gas and acid steam, so do not for an extended period of time.

Fumaroles (sulphur vents) are found near the headspring