One of the most enjoyable aspects of travel is the local cuisine, the spectacular scenery that changes with the seasons, and of course, the onsen (hot springs)! Did you know that there are many hot springs in eastern Japan that are called "ji-onsen," or "local hot springs," and have been loved by locals for centuries? Once used as therapeutic hot spring baths, and even today there are many hot spring resorts that continue to heal people. We will introduce the charms of "local hot springs" that warm the body and soul in the form of an interview!
What is "Yumori"?
The word "yumori" means "guardian of hot spring water. In other words, a "yumori" is a caretaker of a hot spring. They are in charge of controlling the amount and temperature of the hot water. The traditional hot spring baths that have taken root in each area have a long history and have been protected by these "yumori," or "hot spring guardians," who are the pride of the hot spring resorts introduced in this project.
Togatta Hot Springs have been in existence since the early Meiji era (1868-1912)
In our 26th installment of our series on "Local Hot Springs Attractions", we talk to Togatta Hot Springs. We spoke to Mr. Takeuchi, the hot spring resort manager.
Togatta Hot Springs is surrounded by the seasonal beauty of Zao's nature
Tell us about Togatta Hot Springs in Zao. Takeuchi-san Zao is home to the highest mountains, Kumanodake (1,841m) and Karitadake (1,758m), as well as a mountain climbing and sightseeing symbol called "Ogama". The village is rich in rice, vegetables and fruit, nurtured by the melting snow from Zao and the winds and climate known as the "Zao downpour".
Togatta Hot Springs has been in existence since the early Meiji era
Togatta Hot Springs has been in existence since the early Meiji period. Takeuchi-san, Yumamori Benefits include gastrointestinal disorders, rheumatism, liver disease, and other digestive disorders. It is known as one of the three best hot springs in Japan for gastrointestinal diseases, and is characterized by the fact that you can drink the spring water. A unique bathing method is the kakeyu (pouring hot water over the bathtub). Originally, it was started by spa guests using empty cans to pour a little of the hot water over their stomachs to get used to the hot water in Togatta Hot Springs.
Today, we have "Atsuyu" in the main bathhouse, where you lie on the edge of the bathtub and slowly pour hot water over your stomach to slowly warm your stomach. We hope you will try this kakeyu. 100% free-flowing hot-spring water
Winter cures for a year of health
What is the best time of year to visit the open-air baths, where you can see the scenery of the four seasons? Please also tell us about the characteristics of the four seasons. Yumori Takeuchi-san My personal recommendation is fresh greenery and the harsh winter months. The autumn foliage is popular as a view that 100 people think is wonderful, but the energy of the fresh green leaves as they begin to sprout life energizes us as well.
The coldest time of the year, around February, is also a good time to visit. It has long been said that if you take a hot-spring cure in winter, your body will become stronger and you will stay healthy for the whole year. We hope you will take the time to enjoy a Touji, which relaxes the body and mind by alternating between the cold outside and the warmth of the hot spring, and warm yourself in a bath with a view of the snow. Separate open-air baths for men and women Separate open-air baths for men and women
Providing meals that your body will love
What about the food? What kind of meals do you serve to please the body? Do you have any recommendations for the winter menu? Yumori Takeuchi-san Because the hot spring is famous for gastrointestinal illnesses, we want our meals to be good for the body. We would like to bring to our guests' mouths food that is good for the body and local, mainly seasonal ingredients, rather than meals for the sake of enjoying alcoholic beverages. We serve carefully prepared meals to our customers, focusing on vegetables and homemade smoked bacon.
In winter, the foot of Zao has well-drained soil covered with volcanic ash. Root vegetables such as daikon (Japanese radish) grow well there, and the difference in temperature between winter and winter increases their sweetness. Root vegetables warm the internal organs, making them ideal for winter. Specialty imoni and furofuki daikon
Providing meals that your body will love
Do you have any special features in your guest rooms? I know there are many people who spend the winter in your rooms. Yumori Takeuchi-san The guest rooms, built of wood and made of cedar and cypress, blend in with the natural surroundings of Zao. All rooms are equipped with underfloor heating, so your feet and bedding will be warm even in the harshest of winters. Whether you are alone, as a couple, or with your family. You can choose the room that best suits your needs. 10 tatami + 4.5 tatami (Japanese/Western style room) 10 tatami + 4.5 tatami (Japanese-style room)
Year-round experience is what Zao is all about
Are there any particular spots you would like people to see or feel when staying at Togatta Hot Springs? Takeuchi-san, Yumoru Trekking is recommended from spring to fall. Only those who have experienced it will understand the luxury of hiking through the fresh greenery of Zao and soaking in the hot springs. In summer, after dinner, we will take you to the top of Zao for a star gazing tour. In winter, we recommend the Juhyō (frost covered trees) viewing tour, which is held at the nearby ski resort (Sumikawa Snow Park) and takes you to the Juhyō (frost covered trees) field by snowmobile. The charm of Zao is that you can enjoy various experiences throughout the year. Even if you stay in Zao for several nights in winter, you will be able to actively enjoy yourself. Warming up by the fireplace
What is the commitment of the Yumamori?
We value the freshness and directness of the bounty from the earth that naturally gushes out from the mountains. We also want to spend "Togatta" with our guests through the very act of living in the mountains. It's not just a face-to-face relationship between innkeeper and guest, but also a "welcome back" and "itter-sa-sa". We want our guests to feel as free as possible, to feel as if they are staying in a vacation home in the mountains. We are always looking forward to your return. Togatta Hot Springs is a relaxing hot spring cure in the middle of nowhere
A relaxing hot spring cure in the middle of nowhere
What did you think? This time we asked you to tell us more about Togatta Hot Springs. Togatta is located in the middle of Zao, where there is "almost no signal coverage". The grandeur of nature and the power of the hot springs awaits you, even away from your cell phone.
Togatta Hot Springs has been a protected hot spring resort since the early Meiji era (150 years ago). Why not visit Togatta Hot Springs for a relaxing hot spring cure for both body and soul?
Take your favorite train and lodging combination for a budget-friendly trip!
You can create your own original trip!
The " JR East View Dynamic Rail Package " is a variable-price individual travel product sold exclusively through the Internet that allows you to choose your train and accommodations freely and make a reservation at once. Depending on the timing and conditions of your reservation, you may be able to save even on the day of departure at the earliest! We also offer one-day trip plans! Please enjoy your own trip according to your schedule and purpose.
for Sendai Station Togatta, 1 Togatta, Oaza-Maegawa, Kawasaki-cho, Shibata-gun, Miyagi 989-0901
Access
From Shiraishi Zao Station, take the bus bound for Togatta Onsen at 13:10. Arrive at Active Resorts Miyagi Zao at 14:02 (reservation required)
Train】 Bus bound for "Togatta Onsen" from No. 33 bus stop in front of Sendai Station Departure: 14:08 → Arrive at the last stop, "Mercure Miyagi Zao Resort & Spa" at 15:12
By Car】Take the Tohoku Expressway "Shiroishi I.C." via Zao Echo Line, about 50 minutes.
*The contents and services in this article are subject to change.
*All images are for reference only.
Next time
Please enjoy a luxurious time surrounded by nature at Lamp Inn Takamine Onsen! Please look forward to the next installment. If you would like to know more about "Ji-onsen," please click the link below.JR East HP "Places and Onsen" Togatta Hot Springs
