Ogama Onsen
Unpretentious hot spring inn with rustic communal baths and woodland views in the famed Nyuto Onsen area.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the onsen without crowds
Ogama Onsen
Best Time
Experience the onsen without crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Unpretentious hot spring inn with rustic communal baths and woodland views in the famed Nyuto Onsen area.
"The onsen was lovely and that's all that matters. The water was both mineraly and mild and I really loved the setup of the outdoor bath."
Towel Purchase Needed
You'll need to purchase a towel for entry, so be prepared! :moneybag:
Manage Facility Expectations
Facilities are rustic and may feel rundown to some. Embrace the charm! ✨
Quick Facts
Rating
3.5 · 847 reviews
Type
Japanese inn
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rustic Communal Bathhouse
Main bathhouse
Immerse yourself in the mineral-rich, lukewarm waters of this historic, communal outdoor bath. Pure relaxation.
Woodland Views
Bathhouse and rooms
Enjoy serene views of the surrounding woodland, adding to the tranquil and natural atmosphere of your stay.
Included Traditional Meals
Dining area
Savor authentic Japanese meals served with your stay, a hearty and traditional culinary experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Rustic Charm
Staff & Facilities: Know Before You Go
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Planning for Tohoku. Need some advice on where to stay and general suggestions.
Hello all! ​ Over the years I've been to Japan several times for holidays but never to the North. Information is more limited and I am having trouble deciding where to stay and travel out of for each area. I am also having trouble deciding how long I should give for…
Towel Purchase Needed
You'll need to purchase a towel for entry, so be prepared! :moneybag:
Manage Facility Expectations
Facilities are rustic and may feel rundown to some. Embrace the charm! ✨
Staff Interactions
Some guests report less-than-ideal staff interactions. Focus on the onsen experience. :innocent:
Lukewarm Water
The onsen water is often described as lukewarm, which can be pleasant for longer soaks. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
Towel Purchase Needed
You'll need to purchase a towel for entry, so be prepared! :moneybag:
Manage Facility Expectations
Facilities are rustic and may feel rundown to some. Embrace the charm! ✨
Staff Interactions
Some guests report less-than-ideal staff interactions. Focus on the onsen experience. :innocent:
Lukewarm Water
The onsen water is often described as lukewarm, which can be pleasant for longer soaks. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ogama Onsen offers a rustic and unpretentious hot spring experience with mineral-rich, lukewarm waters and woodland views. While some guests find the facilities rundown and staff interactions less than ideal, others appreciate the authentic atmosphere and affordability, especially for day visits. It's a place that prioritizes natural charm over modern luxury.
"Do not waste your money here. The staff was as very very rude, when I nearly tripped over a step, she looked at me with an evil laugh, and said something not nice in Japanese, and give me an angry face. Very very rundown facilities, cannot imagine how it is still running."
O Oho
"I went here as a part of some daytime Nyuto Onsen hopping. Compared to the other inns the fare is cheaper (¥700 plus ¥300 to purchase a towel) but the facilities are shabby. There's no hair dryer or amenities (cotton, brushes, etc) placed in the locker room.
A lot of the Japanese reviews mention that the woman at the front desk was unpleasant and I agree. I was actually almost impressed by the lack of hospitality #keepingitreal. At the end of the day the onsen was lovely and that's all that matters. The water was both mineraly and mild and I really loved the setup of the outdoor bath - it was all really rustic and pleasant."
Maya S
"TLDR: Nyuto Onsen is a great place but this hotel is terrible.
Very rundown hotel (if it can be called a hotel) with unhappy to help service verging on rude from check-in to check-out. Bath was lukewarm. Bathing facilities were dirty and not well-kept. Food was ok. Overall very disappointing.
In particular, I was disgusted with how the woman at reception spoke to a family of overseas visitors who were checking in after me. There was some miscommunication around there reservation. They were 5 but their reservation was only for 4. The woman was condescending and rude, reprimanding the family as if they were children. She told them they could all stay in the same room and have meals for 5 but refused to give them a fifth futon, telling them they would have to share. I mean, what hotel/ryokan doesn’t have spare futon!"
Matt Taylor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ogama Onsen is located in the Akita prefecture, often visited as part of the Nyuto Onsen area. The most common approach is to take the Akita Shinkansen to Tazawako Station, then transfer to a local bus heading towards Nyuto Onsen. Buses run frequently but check schedules in advance, especially outside peak season.
Driving is an option, and it offers flexibility to explore the surrounding Tohoku region. Parking is usually available at the onsen inns. However, roads can be narrow and winding, especially in winter.
While buses connect the main inns, walking between some of the closer ones is feasible. For extensive hopping, consider a rental car or checking if any local shuttle services are available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While day visits are possible, booking accommodation in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, as Nyuto Onsen is a popular destination.
Day visit fees are typically around ¥700 for the onsen bath, plus an additional fee for towel rental (around ¥300). Prices can vary slightly.
Some inns offer day passes, and it's worth checking if a 'Nyuto Onsen Pass' exists that grants access to multiple baths, though this is less common for individual inns like Ogama.
Day visitor hours typically run from mid-morning to late afternoon. It's best to check the specific operating hours for Ogama Onsen on the day of your visit, as they can change seasonally.
Bring your own towel if you prefer, though you can rent one. Comfortable clothing for travel and a small bag for your belongings are also useful.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The water at Ogama Onsen is known for being mineral-rich and typically lukewarm. Many visitors find this temperature perfect for extended, relaxing soaks.
Some reviews indicate a lack of amenities like hair dryers or toiletries in the locker rooms. It's advisable to bring your own if you require them.
The communal bathhouse is typically separated by gender. Check with the inn directly for any specific policies or private bath options.
Ogama Onsen is described as unpretentious and rustic, offering a tranquil escape with woodland views. It's a place to unwind rather than for luxury.
Yes, Ogama Onsen is a hot spring inn where overnight stays are possible, often including traditional Japanese meals. Booking in advance is essential.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Overnight stays typically include traditional Japanese meals, often described as hearty and plentiful. Expect local ingredients and classic preparations.
Dining options for day visitors might be limited. It's best to inquire directly with Ogama Onsen if they offer any snacks or light meals for those just using the onsen.
If you have dietary restrictions, it's crucial to inform the inn when booking your stay. They may be able to make adjustments, but it's not guaranteed.
📸 📸 Photography
The rustic charm of the bathhouse and the surrounding woodland offer picturesque scenes. Capture the natural beauty and the unique atmosphere.
The outdoor bath area, with its natural setting, and the views of the surrounding forest are prime photography spots. Capture the steam rising from the water for an atmospheric shot.
Be mindful of other guests' privacy, especially in bathing areas. It's generally best to avoid photographing people without their explicit consent.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit