Matsukawa Hot Springs is a hidden hot spring located near Matsukawa in Towada Hachimantai National Park. There are two inns operating here, and their baths are supplied with the milky sulfuric water of Hachimantai.
Just upstream is the Matsukawa Geothermal Power Station, which is a historic geothermal power station that started commercial operation for the first time in Japan.
The spring season at Matsukawa Onsen begins in April once the two scenic highland routes, the 17-kilometer Hachimantai Jukai Line and the 27-kilometer Hachimantai Aspite Line, are cleared of the long months of heavy snow. A drive through these famous snow corridors with their towering white walls of plowed snow leads to mountain valleys where sprouting plants and the calls of bush warblers announce spring’s arrival.
Summer brings the spreading green canopies of oak and beech leaves and the fun of watching fireflies at night. Fall, of course, is all about the trees’ brilliant tapestry of reds and golds.
And soaking in a steamy hot-spring bath in the quiet hush of winter with snow all around is surely one of the best Zen moments to be experienced in all of Japan. The restorative hot springs here are welcome respite for hikers and skiers, too.
Three trailheads are located at Matsukawa Onsen. One leads to Mount Iwate via Ubakurayama. Another goes directly to Mitsuishi after passing the Mitsuishi Lodge. A third takes a circular route, with jaw-dropping views of Mount Iwate from the peaks of Gentagatake, Ofuka, and Mitsuishi before heading back to Matsukawa Onsen.