Nanyo City and Akyu Onsen: The Hot Spring with Red Source Water Known as the "Onsen to Drink"

Akyu Onsen

Akyu Onsen in Nanyo, Yamagata, is a historic hot spring continuing from the Heian period. Known since antiquity as a "drinkable hot spring" (containing iron oxide that gives it a slightly red tint), visitors can drink the spring water at the designated fountain.

Hot Spring Characteristics

- Spring Type: Sodium-chloride spring (slightly red-tinted) - Drinking: Drinkable spring said to benefit stomach and digestive conditions - Benefits: Neuralgia, rheumatism, chronic skin conditions, and more

Highlights

- Motoyu Genroku (Drinking Fountain): Drinking source said to be the origin of Akyu Onsen - Eboshiyama Park: Famous cherry blossom spot; combined blossom viewing and hot spring sightseeing is popular - Nanyo Grape Orchards: Grape picking in September–October - Akyu Wine: Nanyo is also a production area for wine grapes

Getting There

- Alight at JR Yamagata Shinkansen Akyu Station (about 30 minutes from Yamagata)

Tips

Observe the prescribed drinking amount (1–2 cups). A trip combining the grape harvest season (September–October) with Akyu Onsen is especially rewarding. Local grape juice and wine make great souvenirs.