Guida
Morioka Tsugina Onsen is a scenic hot spring area located on the shores of Lake Gosho in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture. The landscape is characterized by the harmonious blend of the calm, shimmering waters of the dammed Lake Gosho and the surrounding lush nature. The spring quality is a simple sulfur spring with a high alkalinity (pH 8.7 to 9.5), boasting a rich flow of 2,000 liters per minute. The area is a well-established community featuring various accommodations, day-service facilities, and rest houses.
The history of this area dates back to the late Heian period. Legend has it that during the Zenkunen War, Minamoto no Yoshiie discovered the hot springs while setting up his headquarters. The name "Tsugina" (meaning to tie or tether) originates from the discovery of a "Tsugina-ishi" (tethering stone)—a stone with a hole used to tie and rest his beloved horse. This historical connection adds a layer of profound cultural depth to your visit.
The hot spring town is home to Onsen Shrine (Onsen Jinja/Yakushi Jinja), where traditional rituals are held annually on September 8th. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of Lake Gosho while visiting various free footbath (ashiyu) spots scattered throughout the area. Notable spots include the "Yamaichi Te-yu" completed in 2007 and the "Nekoishi Ashiyu" in 2009, allowing travelers to easily soak their feet during a stroll. Additionally, from May to November, the local "Ichi-no-Ichi" market is held on the 1st of every month, offering a chance to experience local culture and products.
The scenery around Lake Gosho transforms beautifully with the seasons. You can witness the gentle lakeside scenery in spring, the vibrant fresh greenery in summer, the brilliant autumn colors in fall, and the serene snowy landscapes in winter. Since the operating hours for footbaths and local facilities vary, it is highly recommended to check the specific information for each facility before your visit.
Beyond staying at local inns, a popular activity is the "footbath tour" using the free public footbaths like Nekoishi or Ochiai. While walking along the shores of Lake Gosho, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the majestic Mount Iwate. The area is also rich in cultural heritage, such as the legendary "Tsugina-ishi" stone.
The area around the hot spring town is dotted with various tourist spots across Lake Gosho. Nearby attractions include Morioka Tezukuri-mura (Handicraft Village), Koiwai Farm, and Gosho Wide-area Park, making Tsugina Onsen a perfect central hub for your Iwate sightseeing itinerary.
It is convenient to carry a small towel when visiting the footbath spots or strolling through the town. As this is a nature-rich area, please respect the environment and follow local customs. We recommend checking the latest local information to ensure a safe and pleasant trip.