Atsumi Onsen: A Tranquil Hot Spring Town Surrounded by Nature

Atsumi Onsen: A Tranquil Hot Spring Town Surrounded by Nature

Atsumi Onsen, located in Tsuruoka City, Yamagata Prefecture, is a hot spring town rich in natural beauty, surrounded by both the sea and mountains. Its history dates back about 1,200 years, and according to legend, it was discovered when an injured crane was healed in its waters. During the Edo period (1603–1868), it flourished as a therapeutic hot spring resort. The waters are said to be gentle on the skin and offer a wide range of benefits, helping to relax and rejuvenate both body and mind.

Along the river, footbaths, public bathhouses, and traditional onsen ryokan create a charming streetscape. Strolling through town in a yukata, available to rent at many accommodations, offers a chance to fully immerse yourself in the quintessential atmosphere of a Japanese hot spring town. Another distinctive pleasure of Atsumi Onsen is the pairing of footbaths with cafés. At Mokke Yu, you can relax in a footbath while savoring local craft beer or soft-serve ice cream from the nearby Saji Café, located just in front of the footbath.

At Mosshe Yu, the adjacent café Chitto Motche offers another way to enjoy the experience, where you can warm your feet in a footbath while enjoying chilled sweets. The combination of warm feet and a cool head is said to promote relaxation. The café also features a selection of crafts and accessories made by local artists, making it a great place to look for souvenirs. Atsumi Onsen is a hidden gem where you can enjoy a wide range of hot spring experiences, from authentic free-flowing natural baths to casual footbaths, all in a tranquil setting.

The clear Atsumi River flows through the heart of the town, offering relaxing strolls accompanied by the gentle sound of flowing water.

Yukata available for rent at onsen inns come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. Pick your favorite and enjoy a stroll around town.

At the Atsumi Onsen Rose Garden, around 3,000 roses bloom one after another from June to October.
(The garden is closed in 2026 for renovation and is scheduled to reopen in 2027.)

A beautiful rose-shaped ice cream has been gaining attention on social media.
(Available at Dezubo Café on Kajika Street.)

During the rose season, visitors can enjoy special footbaths filled with floating rose petals.

■From the Editor

In fact, Yamagata Prefecture is a hotspot for ramen, with an abundance of ramen shops. Atsumi Onsen is also home to several well-known spots. Nothing beats a bowl of ramen after a relaxing soak in the hot springs!

More Info

Atsumi Kanko Kyokai
TEL: 0235-43-3547