Overview
Geto Onsen is said to have been discovered over 800 years ago by fleeing members of the Taira clan. During the Edo period, it was managed directly by the Date clan of the Sendai Domain and flourished as a place for therapeutic bathing. Today, it retains a strong traditional touji atmosphere, with inns offering self-catering facilities that are popular for long-term stays.
Seven hot springs, collectively known as "Geto Nana-yu," gush forth along the Geto River valley. Each spring has different qualities and temperatures, making it a great pleasure to tour the various baths. Here, you can enjoy rustic open-air baths (rotenburo) surrounded by a primeval beech forest. Due to heavy snowfall, the onsen is typically open only from early May to mid-November.
Typical Spring Qualities and Indications
Geto Onsen is blessed with a variety of springs, primarily Chloride and Sulfate springs. Chloride springs, also called "netsu-no-yu" (warming waters), heat the body to its core and retain warmth long after bathing. Sulfate springs are said to moisturize the skin and help prevent arteriosclerosis.
- Cuts
- Peripheral circulatory disorder
- Sensitivity to cold
- Dry skin
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Decreased gastrointestinal function
Water Characteristics and Best Season
The onsen boasts an abundant flow of water, with most baths being 'gensen kakenagashi' (free-flowing directly from the source). The water temperature varies by spring but is often high, ranging from 40°C to over 60°C, and is sometimes cooled with fresh water. The open-air baths along the river offer an exceptional sense of freedom and unity with nature.
The best time to visit is during its open season from May to November. Each period offers a different stunning view: early summer (May-June) with its beautiful fresh greenery, mid-summer (July-August) for a cool retreat, and autumn (October) when the valley is ablaze with fiery foliage.
Access
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Nearby Sightseeing & Local Cuisine
- Kitakami Tenshochi Park: A famous spot for its stunning cherry blossoms, with river cruises and horse-drawn carriages.
- Michinoku Folklore Village: An open-air museum featuring relocated and restored traditional thatched-roof houses.
- Geto Kogen Ski Resort: A popular resort for skiing in winter and for gondola rides and camping in summer.
- Genbikei Gorge: A scenic spot with an emerald-green stream and unique rock formations, famous for its 'flying dango' dumplings.
- Chuson-ji Konjikido: The central temple of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hiraizumi, showcasing the glory of the Oshu Fujiwara clan.
- Kitakami Croquettes: A local specialty made with two types of taro and asparagus.
- Wanko Soba: A famous Iwate dish where small servings of soba noodles are repeatedly served into your bowl.
References
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