Naruko Onsen - Discovering Japan

Travelling to Naruko Onsen

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Naruko Onsen, a pretty good destination in Japan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Naruko Onsen and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Naruko Onsen, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Japan, here's everything to know about Naruko Onsen for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Naruko Onsen

Naruko Onsen is a hot spring town located in the Miyagi Prefecture of Japan. It is known for its numerous hot springs that contain minerals and nutrients that are believed to promote healing and relaxation. The town is nestled in a valley surrounded by lush forests and is a popular destination for those looking to unwind and enjoy nature. Naruko Onsen has a long history, dating back over a thousand years, and has been visited by emperors, samurai, and poets throughout the centuries. In addition to soaking in the hot springs, visitors can also enjoy hiking, skiing, and traditional Japanese cuisine.

What to visit in Naruko Onsen

Surely, here are some of the tourist attractions that Naruko Onsen in Japan has to offer: 1. Naruko Gorge: Naruko Gorge is a scenic spot that is famous for its stunning autumnal foliage. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the gorge, enjoying the colourful landscape that surrounds them. This is a perfect place to relax and unwind.
2. Naruko Visitor Center: The Naruko Visitor Centre is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the area. Here, visitors can watch a documentary about the hot spring area, browse through exhibits on local fauna and flora, and shop for souvenirs and local produce.
3. Naruko Onsen Village: Naruko Onsen Village is the heart of Naruko Onsen and is famous for its thermal springs. Visitors can enjoy an array of hot spring baths, including indoor and outdoor pools and steam baths. The village also offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious ryokans.
4. Naruko Dam: Naruko Dam is a beautiful place to visit, and it offers a great view of the mountains and the surrounding landscape. Here, visitors can hike around the dam or take a walk along the riverside and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
5. Oyasukyo Gorge: Oyasukyo Gorge is a scenic spot located near Naruko Onsen, and it has a natural hot spring that flows underground. Visitors can take a dip in the hot spring and enjoy the mesmerizing scenery around them.
6. Michinoku Lakeside National Park: Michinoku Lakeside National Park is a serene and tranquil nature reserve located near Naruko Onsen. The park has eight beautiful lakes surrounded by tall trees and stunning mountains. Visitors can rent a bike and explore the park or take a relaxing boat ride on the lake.
These are just a few of the top tourist attractions that Naruko Onsen, Japan, has to offer. Visitors should definitely check out these places to get a sense of the area's natural beauty and history.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Japan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Naruko Onsen

The best time to go on a holiday to Naruko Onsen in Japan is during the autumn months of September to November. During this time, the weather is relatively mild and the fall foliage adds to the natural beauty of the town. Additionally, Naruko Onsen is known for its hot springs and the cool weather during the autumn months makes it more enjoyable to relax in the outdoor hot springs. The spring months of March to May are also a good choice as the warmer weather make it easier to explore the various hiking trails in the area. However, it is important to note that Naruko Onsen can be busy during peak seasons, so it's important to plan ahead and make reservations in advance.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Naruko Onsen

Naruko Onsen is a hot spring resort located in Japan's Miyagi Prefecture. Here are the different ways to get there: 1. By train: - Take the Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Furukawa Station (about 1.5 to 2 hours).
- Transfer to the JR Rikuu East Line and take the train to Naruko Onsen Station (about 50 minutes).
2. By bus: - Take a bus from Sendai Station to Naruko Onsen (about 2 hours).
3. By car: - From Tokyo, take the Tohoku Expressway towards Sendai. Then take the Sendai-Higashi Interchange and follow the signs to Naruko Onsen (about 4.5 to 5 hours).
4. By plane: - Fly from Tokyo to Sendai Airport.
- From there, take a bus or train to Naruko Onsen.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Naruko Onsen!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Naruko Onsen, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Naruko Onsen

Sure, here are some typical foods of Naruko Onsen in Japan: 1. Naruko Miso - It is a special type of miso paste made with soybeans and rice in a natural fermentation process. It is a staple ingredient in many dishes, including soups, dressings, marinades, and sauces.
2. Jingisukan - It is a grilled mutton dish that is popular in Naruko Onsen. The meat is thinly sliced and cooked on a hot plate with vegetables and topped with a special sauce.
3. Nambu Iron Pan - It is a traditional Japanese iron pan used to cook many local dishes in Naruko Onsen. It is known for its excellent heat retention and is perfect for cooking vegetables, meat, and seafood.
4. Kiritanpo - It is a famous dish in Akita Prefecture that originated in Naruko Onsen. It is made with mashed rice that is skewered, grilled, and served with a hot pot or soup.
5. Sansai Tempura - It is a dish made with wild mountain vegetables that are battered, deep-fried, and served with a soy sauce-based dipping sauce.
6. Sasakamaboko - It is a type of fish cake made with grated mountain yam and bamboo leaves. It is often grilled or steamed and served as a side dish or appetizer.
7. Onigiri - It is a popular snack in Japan that is made with rice and filled with various ingredients, such as pickled vegetables, fish, or meat. They are usually wrapped in nori seaweed and are a convenient food for travelers in Naruko Onsen. Hope this helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in Japan here.

Is Naruko Onsen an expensive destination for tourists?

Naruko Onsen can be considered a bit expensive for tourists, especially when compared to other hot spring destinations in Japan. However, the cost of accommodation, food and other expenses can vary greatly depending on the time of year you visit, the type of accommodation you choose and the activities you plan to do. Generally, peak seasons like cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons are more expensive, while off-peak travel times can offer some cost savings. It is advisable to check the prices of accommodation and activities beforehand to plan your budget accordingly.

Where to find accomodation in Naruko Onsen

There are several areas where you can find accommodation to visit Naruko Onsen in Japan. Some of the popular options include: 1. Naruko Onsen Town: This is the main town that houses the hot spring resorts and is the best option if you want to experience the traditional Japanese onsen culture.
2. Miyagi Zao Eboshi Resort: Located around 10 km from Naruko Onsen Town, Miyagi Zao Eboshi Resort is a ski resort that also offers hot spring relaxation, making it an ideal option for winter sports enthusiasts.
3. Furukawa Onsen: This is a small town located around 30 km from Naruko Onsen Town, and it offers a more secluded and private onsen experience.
4. Tendo City: This is a larger city located around 40 km from Naruko Onsen, and it offers a mix of modern and traditional accommodations to suit different preferences.
Overall, the best area to find accommodation will depend on your specific preferences and travel plans.
You can check hotel prices at Naruko Onsen here:
Booking.com

Is Naruko Onsen a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Naruko Onsen is generally a safe place for tourists. Japan, in general, is known for being a very safe country, with low crime rates and helpful people. As with any travel destination, it is always important to take basic safety precautions such as staying aware of your surroundings, avoiding dark or isolated areas at night and keeping valuable items secure. Additionally, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with local customs to ensure you are respectful and avoid any cultural misunderstandings. Overall, Naruko Onsen is a beautiful and welcoming destination that is well worth a visit.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Japan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Naruko Onsen.

What type of travelers will enjoy Naruko Onsen the most?

Naruko Onsen in Japan is a hot springs resort town that offers a relaxing and authentic Japanese experience, making it suitable for a variety of travelers. Here are the types of travelers that can enjoy Naruko Onsen the most: 1. Couples: Naruko Onsen offers a romantic and intimate atmosphere, perfect for couples looking for a serene and relaxing getaway.
2. Families: The town has a family-friendly atmosphere, with traditional Japanese inns or "ryokans" that cater to families with children. Additionally, families can explore the nearby Fukuhara-kyo Gorge and visit the Naruko Dam.
3. Seniors: Naruko Onsen's natural hot springs are believed to have healing powers for various ailments, making it a popular destination for seniors seeking relief from joint pain, fatigue, and other health issues.
Overall, Naruko Onsen is a great destination for anyone who wants to experience traditional Japanese culture and relax in natural hot springs.

How to get around Naruko Onsen

The most common transportation in Naruko Onsen is by bus. There is a local bus company that covers the main tourist attractions and onsens in the area. Taxis are also available, but they can be quite expensive. If you're feeling more adventurous, there are also some rental car companies in the area that you can use to explore the surrounding countryside. One thing to keep in mind is that Naruko Onsen is a fairly small town, so many of the major tourist attractions can be reached on foot from the town center.

What to see around Naruko Onsen

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Naruko Onsen: 1. Kakunodate Samurai District: This historical district is known for its well-preserved samurai houses and beautiful cherry blossom trees.
2. Lake Tazawa: This is Japan's deepest lake and is surrounded by stunning natural scenery.
3. Hiraizumi: This small town is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Chusonji Temple and the Motsuji Temple gardens.
4. Matsushima Bay: This bay is considered one of Japan's three most scenic views with over 200 tiny islands dotted along the coast.
5. Yamagata City: The capital of Yamagata Prefecture offers a variety of attractions including the Yamadera temple, a beautiful mountain temple with a great view, and the Kajo Park, home to the impressive Yamagata castle.
These are just a few of the many attractions you can visit in a day trip from Naruko Onsen. Enjoy your trip!
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