Omaki Onsen: A Secluded Hot Spring Inn Accessible by Boat

To make sure we didn’t miss the sightseeing boat to Omaki Onsen, we left at 4:00 a.m. There was less snow than expected, which was the only disappointment, but the views from the boat were wonderful. Although there were some international guests, the three baths were almost private, so we could relax and enjoy them at our own pace—even with an outside temperature of -3°C. The food was also delicious, and the staff kindly explained everything and checked in on us, making it a truly pleasant trip. It took 10 hours to get there from home, so we can’t visit often, but if we have the chance, we’d love to go again.

I was looking for a special Onsen for a long-overdue trip with my mother. On the way to the Ryokan, we really enjoyed the snowy scenery from the second-deck observation boat. At the Ryokan, the large public bath was open 24 hours, so I used it many times. There were hardly any other guests, so it felt like a private bath. Both dinner and breakfast were carefully prepared, and even the tableware was thoughtfully chosen, so I was very satisfied. It would have been even better if we could have eaten in our Room. It was a special experience that let us escape from everyday life. I think winter is the best season to visit.