Hiking
Hot Spring
Take a leisurely nature walk around a lush beech forest full of wild birds and tranquil ponds.
This loop trail starts at Tsuta Onsen and passes by six ponds: Tsutanuma, Kagaminuma, Tsukinuma, Naganuma, Suganuma and Hyotannuma. The area's ponds and beech trees attract a variety of wild birds, including the ruddy kingfisher and the Mandarin duck. The trail is relatively flat, making it a great option for families and all levels of hiker. Snowshoe tours of the area are available in winter.
Tsutanuma Pond
Tsutanuma Pond is the first and largest of the six ponds along this trail. From the path along the pond you may be able to spot birds such as the grey heron and common kingfisher.
A green tree frog
The lush beech forests and ponds attract a variety of birds, such as the Mandarin duck and the ruddy kingfisher—a migratory bird with a distinctive call and bright red beak. In early summer, from about mid-June to early July, look out for foamy masses of green tree frog eggs on the tips of branches along the shores.
Kyuan-no-Yu bath
Tsuta Onsen, the only hot spring ryokan inn in the area, has a history that stretches back almost 900 years. The secluded inn is surrounded by beech trees and features traditional wooden baths. The baths at the ryokan are open to day visitors year-round, while lodging at the inn is closed during winter.
