Lake Tazawa and Nyuto Onsen: Akita's Hot Spring Highlands

Plan a trip to Lake Tazawa, Japan's deepest lake, and the forest hot spring inns of Nyuto Onsen in Akita, with cycling, legends, bathing tips and access.

Published October 17, 2026 at 8:52 PM JST | By Tokyo Paul

Quick answer: Lake Tazawa in Akita is Japan's deepest lake at about 423 meters, with a legendary lake goddess statue and a 20 kilometer loop road for cycling. Nearby Nyuto Onsen is a group of forest hot spring inns, reached by bus from Tazawako Station in about 45 minutes.

Japan's Deepest Lake and a Valley of Hot Springs

Akita Prefecture has a knack for pairing big scenery with quiet comfort, and nowhere is that clearer than around Lake Tazawa. The lake is the deepest in Japan, a glimmering round basin ringed by green hills, and just up the valley a cluster of old hot spring inns hides among the beech forest at Nyuto Onsen. Together they make one of Tohoku's most relaxing getaways. This guide explains what makes the lake special, the legend that surrounds it, how to cycle or stroll its shore, and how to choose a bath at Nyuto Onsen.

Both places are reachable by public transport from the Tazawako area, which is itself on the Akita Shinkansen line, so you can travel from Tokyo without a car. That makes this region a perfect choice for an autumn or winter break, when a long soak in a steaming bath feels especially welcome.

The Deepest Lake in Japan

Lake Tazawa reaches a maximum depth of about 423 meters, which makes it the deepest lake in Japan, and its average depth is around 280 meters. Its surface area is roughly 26 square kilometers, so it is not huge across, but it holds a remarkable volume of water. Its great depth gives it a calm, dark blue look in clear light, and many visitors are struck by how still it appears.

The hills around it hold several hot spring resorts, and Akita's largest ski area overlooks the lake in winter. That mix of water, mountain and spring is what makes the Tazawako area such a complete holiday destination. In summer there are lakeside walks, in autumn the surrounding woods turn red and gold, and in winter heavy snow creates a hushed landscape.

Tatsuko and a Ride Around the Shore

The best-known landmark on the shore is the statue of Tatsuko, a bronze figure of a beautiful young woman. The sculptor Funakoshi Yasutake created it, and it was unveiled in May 1968. Tatsuko stands near the water with her back to the lake, in a graceful pose that has become the symbol of Tazawako.

The statue is tied to a local legend. Tatsuko was a maiden famed for her beauty who wished to keep her youth and loveliness forever. In the tale, she was transformed into the goddess of the lake, and her story is told in various versions around the region. The origin of the legend is not clear, which adds to its charm. Visitors often stop to take a photo, then continue along the shore to nearby Goza-ishi Shrine, another favorite spot beside the water.

The loop road around Lake Tazawa is about 20 kilometers long, and cycling it usually takes around two to three hours at a relaxed pace. The route is well maintained with few hills, so it suits most riders, and the views of the lake and surrounding mountains are said to resemble northern Europe. The Tatsuko statue and Goza-ishi Shrine are both along the way, making natural places to pause.

If cycling does not appeal, there are plenty of shorter options. Stroll along the shore near the statue, take a boat trip if one is operating in the season you visit, or choose a lakeside cafe for a break. For rental information, the Tazawako tourist information center can advise on bikes and local conditions. The loop is generally quiet outside the holiday periods, which makes it a pleasant place for an unhurried day outdoors.

Nyuto Onsen: Forest Baths in the Hills

Nyuto Onsen, in the hills above the lake, is a group of historic hot spring inns scattered through the forest of Towada-Hachimantai National Park. Each inn has its own spring source and its own character, with differences in water quality, bath design and atmosphere. Because the inns are spread out, the area feels more like a hidden hot spring village than a typical resort, and the setting among beech trees is one of its biggest attractions.

The individual inns have distinct personalities. Taenoyu is known for its modern Japanese styling and a murky outdoor bath, while Ogama Onsen occupies a former school building that was moved to its current site. Kuroyu Onsen sits among beech groves and is especially striking in autumn, Magoroku Onsen offers several different baths, and Kaniba Onsen lies deep in the forest. Tsurunoyu is reached by crossing a bridge, a charming approach to the bath. Choose the one that suits your style, or pick two or three if you plan a longer stay.

Most of the inns welcome day visitors who want to bathe without staying overnight, though hours and fees vary, so check ahead. For a longer trip, staying overnight lets you enjoy the evening quiet, local meals and a morning soak before the day trippers arrive. Some inns offer a bus linking the baths, and overnight guests can often use a pass to visit other baths, but details change, so confirm when you book.

Getting There and Bathing Tips

From Tokyo, the Akita Shinkansen stops at Tazawako Station, the gateway to the area. From there, a bus runs to the Nyuto Onsen area in about 45 minutes, and the walk from the nearest bus stop to the inns takes roughly 5 to 15 minutes. Services are less frequent in winter and in the evening, so check the timetable before you plan your day. The lake itself is a short bus ride or a bike ride from the station.

Before bathing, wash and rinse thoroughly at the washing stations, keep your small towel out of the bath water, and tie up long hair. Swimwear is not worn in traditional Japanese baths, and rules on tattoos vary from place to place, so ask in advance if this applies to you. Drink water before and after soaking, and take it easy in the hottest baths.

The area can be visited all year, but each season is different. Autumn color in the beech forest is wonderful, spring brings fresh green and meltwater, and winter turns the baths into steamy refuges in a snowy landscape. If you visit in snow, wear shoes with good grip and allow extra time for buses.

Quick Takeaways

Lake Tazawa and Nyuto Onsen belong together. By day, enjoy the deepest lake in Japan on foot or by bike, and visit the Tatsuko statue and its story. By evening, slip into a mountain bath and let the forest quiet wash over you. Plan around the bus times, bring a small towel and sturdy shoes, and choose a season that matches your mood. This part of Akita is hard not to love.

Frequently Asked Questions

How deep is Lake Tazawa?

Lake Tazawa has a maximum depth of about 423 meters, making it the deepest lake in Japan. Its average depth is around 280 meters, and its surface area is roughly 26 square kilometers, so it is deep rather than especially wide.

How long does it take to cycle around Lake Tazawa?

The loop road is about 20 kilometers and usually takes two to three hours at a relaxed pace. The route has few hills, and the Tatsuko statue and Goza-ishi Shrine sit along the way. Ask the local tourist information center about rentals.

Can you visit Nyuto Onsen for the day?

Yes, the inns generally welcome day visitors, though hours and fees vary, so check before you go. From Tazawako Station a bus reaches the area in about 45 minutes, followed by a short walk of roughly 5 to 15 minutes.

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