Sukayu
Hot Spring Overview
Sukayu Onsen is a historic hot spring located at an elevation of approximately 925 meters on the western slope of Mt. Odake, the main peak of the Hakkōda Mountain Range in southern Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture.
It is said to have been discovered in 1684 (Jōkyō 1), about 300 years ago, when a local hunter came across the spring while pursuing a wounded deer. The hot spring was originally called "Shikayu" (Deer Spring), but later came to be known as "Sukayu."
The most iconic facility at Sukayu Onsen is the “Hiba Sen'nin Buro” (Hiba 1,000-Person Bath), a vast bathhouse constructed entirely from hiba cypress. This spacious bath—about 160 tatami mats in size—is fed by four distinct hot spring sources: Atsu-no-Yu (Hot Water), Shibun-Rokubu-no-Yu (Medium Temperature Water), Hiya-no-Yu (Cold Water), and Yutaki (Hot Spring Waterfall).
In addition, there is a smaller, gender-separated bathhouse called Tama-no-Yu, where guests can also enjoy the milky white, highly acidic sulfur-rich waters.
About Secluded Rating
Access (Difficulty to Reach)
Easy access
Scenery & Atmosphere
Untouched nature
Onsen Value
Historic unique spring
Access by car is possible, but please note that heavy snowfall in winter can make travel difficult.
The Hiba Sen'nin Buro, a large wooden bathhouse, combined with the strongly acidic, milky-white spring water and its location deep in the Hakkōda Mountains, gives this hot spring a truly atmospheric and traditional feel.
With over 300 years of history, Sukayu Onsen was designated as Japan’s first National Health Resort Hot Spring, and it offers a deep sense of local culture and therapeutic bathing tradition.
Hot Spring Details
Practical Info
Visit Log
Bath Types
Facilities
Access Information
🚆 By Train & Bus
From Aomori Station (East Exit) → Sukayu Onsen: Approx. 1 hour 10 minutes by JR Bus
From Shin-Aomori Station (East Exit) → Sukayu Onsen: Approx. 1 hour 20 minutes by JR Bus
From Towadako Yasumiya → Sukayu Onsen: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes by JR Bus
🚖 By Taxi
From central Aomori City: Approx. 45 minutes
Fare: Around ¥7,000 to ¥8,000
🚗 By Car
Approx. 40 minutes from Aomori Chūō I.C.
Approx. 50 minutes from Aomori I.C.
Approx. 45 minutes from Kuroishi I.C.
Map
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