Onikōbe Onsen

Osaki, Miyagi, Japan

Location: Osaki, Miyagi, Japan
Water type: sulfurous
Temperature: 44 °C
pH: 6.5

Water profile

Thermicity

Sedative

44 °C

LowHigh

Relaxing — deep, immediate muscle release.

Mineralisation

Bio-active

LowHigh

Rich in active gases or metals — a strong mineral character.

Buoyancy

Standard buoyancy

LowHigh

Soft water — natural, classic buoyancy.

SoufreSulfuresSulfates

Onikōbe Onsen—Demon Neck Spring—in Osaki City, Miyagi Prefecture, is part of the celebrated Naruko Onsenkyo spring cluster and takes its dramatic name from the oni (demon) of Japanese folklore associated with volcanic geological power—the demon neck (kōbe) suggesting the volcanic throat from which the earth's infernal energy is expelled in the form of sulfurous steam and thermal water. Located on the volcanic plateau of the Osaki highlands within Kurikomayama National Park, this sulfurous spring exists at the edge of a volcanic highland that includes geothermal fields of fumaroles and boiling mud pools (jigoku = hell) characteristic of Japan's most dramatically active geothermal landscapes. The demon neck volcanic imagery and sulfurous water combine to create one of Tohoku's most expressively named and geologically assertive hot spring experiences.

Insider tip — Onikobe Onsen occupies a dramatic volcanic gorge in Miyagi where erupting sulfurous springs and natural geysers create a theatrical geothermal landscape unique in the Tohoku region. The bathhouse waters carry a sharp sulfurous scent and white cloudiness typical of high-temperature volcanic springs. Surrounding forests frame the gorge viewpoints accessible on short walking trails from the baths. The area historically attracted pilgrims and has a small shrine dedicated to the geothermal spirits believed to inhabit the spring.

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