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Dake Onsen is a hot spring area located on the mid-slope of Mt. Adatara in Nihonmatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture. In 1955, it was designated as one of the National Recreational Hot Spring areas. The source spring is located near Kurogane Koya, directly under Mt. Adatara, and the water is supplied through a pipeline approximately 8km away. The town also boasts a unique local culture known as the 'Niko Niko Republic,' which officially 'opened its borders' in 1982.
The history of Dake Onsen is deeply intertwined with the preservation of its natural resources. Because the spring water is rich in sulfur, mineral deposits (yunohana) tend to adhere to the resin pipes when exposed to air, which can cause clogging. To prevent this, specialized workers called 'Yumori' perform a ritual known as 'Yunohana Nagashi' (washing away the mineral deposits) once a week. In winter, this even involves digging into the snow to reach the source. The landscape, featuring the slopes of Mt. Adata-ra (immortalized in Kotaro Takamura's poetry) and views of the Abuma River, combined with the whimsical 'Niko Niko Republic' project, creates a truly one-of-a-kind cultural atmosphere.
The greatest spectacle at Dake Onsen is 'Milky Day,' a phenomenon occurring once a week when the water transforms from clear to a beautiful milky white. While this usually occurs on Mondays, the exact timing may vary depending on weather conditions or other circumstances. Additionally, visitors can visit Dake Onsen Shrine, a central point of local faith and community.
The appearance of the hot spring town changes beautifully with the seasons. In winter, you can witness the unique sight of the 'Yumori' workers maintaining the springs amidst heavy snow. Watching the changing scenery of Mt. Adatara while soaking in the mineral-rich waters offers a different sense of tranquility and beauty throughout the year.
Visitors can enjoy a deep sense of relaxation through stays at local inns. The spring water is a simple acidic spring with a high temperature of 68°C and a rich volume of water. A highlight of your stay is observing the natural transition of the water from transparent to milky white, depending on your visit timing.
The area is surrounded by the active volcano, Mt. Adatara. The scenery, which inspired famous Japanese literature, offers a breathtaking natural environment. The nearby Abuma River also adds to the scenic charm of the geographical landscape.
When visiting Dake Onsen, please prepare according to the season. In winter, heavy clothing and snow-ready footwear are essential due to the heavy snowfall. Please respect the local hot spring etiquette and follow the rules of each facility.