Matsukawa Onsen (쉷) is a small, remote hot spring town on the Iwate side of Mount Hachimantai within Towada-Hachimantai National Park. It consists of just a handful of ryokan along a river with baths fed by the local, sulfurous and slightly cloudy hot spring water. All ryokan open up their baths to non-staying guests during the day for a small fee.
A little upriver from the hot springs stands the Matsukawa Geothermal Power Station. Built in 1966, this was the first geothermal power plant in Japan, and it supplies both clean energy and hot water to the region. The plant and its 45 meter high cooling tower cannot be entered; however, there is a small visitor center with a video and displays about the plant.
Getting there and around
Matsukawa Onsen can be reached by car from the north (via a direct road from near the summit of Mount Hachimantai), or by bus or car from the east. During the winter, access is possible only from the east.
Around the year, Iwate Kenpoku Bus operates 3-4 buses per day between Morioka and Matsukawa Onsen. The one way trip takes about two hours and costs 1350 yen.
How to get to and around Hachimantai
Hours and Fees
Shofuso Ryokan Hot Springs (non-staying visitors)
Hours
Closed
Admission
Matsukawa Geothermal Powerplant Center
Hours
Closed
Admission
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Links and Resources
