Author: Federica Morgandi

 

Autumn in Japan is a magical time when the vibrant colors of the changing leaves, known as 紅葉 (kōyō), transform the landscape. 

 

From late September through November, the mountains, parks, and temples come alive with brilliant hues of red, orange, and gold. 

 

Oyasukyo, annintofu on Flickr.

 

A must-see destination during this season is the stunning Oyasukyo Daifunto (also known as Oyasu Gorge) in Yuzawa City, Akita Prefecture, where the vibrant autumn colors blend beautifully with hot springs.

 

Oyasukyo Daifunto, a steaming hot river through a gorge

 

Daifunto (大噴湯, Daifuntō) is one of the most remarkable features of Oyasukyo.

 

Oyasukyo, annintofu on Flickr.

 

This is a rare geological phenomenon that occurs where cracks in the geothermal reservoir expose the hot water and steam stored beneath the surface.

 

Here, you can witness hot water and steam erupting violently from the gorge, showcasing the raw power of the earth. 

 

The steam rises and water gushes at temperatures of up to 98°C.

 

Photo Spots: Daifunto Promenade and Kawarayu Bridge

 

Oyasukyo, annintofu on Flickr.

 

For those eager to experience this natural spectacle up close, the Daifunto area is accessible via a walking trail. After descending a series of rock-like steps for about 60 meters, a promenade leads visitors further into the gorge.

 

If you prefer not to climb the stairs, you can enjoy the steam from Kawarayu Bridge, an arched structure spanning the gorge, which provides a perfect vantage point.

 

Notably, Sugae Masumi, a travel writer from the Edo period, visited this area and wrote in his Takamatsu Diary about the powerful sounds of the eruptions, likening it to “the echo of a thunder god,” with hot water bursting from the earth like a force of nature.

 

The Geological Beauty of Oyasukyo

 

Oyasukyo, annintofu on Flickr.

 

Oyasukyo is a V-shaped valley created by the erosive power of Minase River, which has carved through both banks over the years.

 

The valley offers stunning scenery throughout the year. In spring, it is surrounded by lush greenery, while in autumn, the vibrant colors of the leaves create a breathtaking backdrop. In winter, large icicles called shigakko (しがっこ, shigakko) hang down into the gorge, adding a mystical charm to the landscape.

 

The combination of the surrounding trees, the steam rising from the hot springs, and the ever-changing seasons make Oyasu Gorge a photogenic destination no matter the time of year.

 

The Promenade to Reach Oyasukyo

 

Oyasukyo, annintofu on Flickr.

 

To reach Daifunto, there are two main entrance points, one upstream and one downstream. 

 

The upstream stairs, located near the “Tokotonyama Entrance,” feature a long, straight staircase with 302 steps. 

 

The downstream stairs, starting from the large parking lot at the “Tourist Products Center,” offer a slower, winding course of 406 steps.

 

The walk takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes, with some elevation changes, allowing for a leisurely pace to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the surroundings.

 

Please note that the promenade is closed during winter, or in cases of rising river levels. However, if access is restricted, you can still enjoy the stunning view of the hot spring from Kawarayu Bridge.

 

Relax and Unwind at the “Aguri no Yu” Footbath

 

After exploring the gorge, soothe your tired feet at the Aguri no Yu footbath, located in the large parking lot near the tourist souvenir shop. 

 

This free footbath is a perfect spot to relax and rejuvenate, especially after climbing the many stairs. You can also enjoy a refreshing drink or ice cream while soaking your feet in the warm, soothing waters.

 

Access Information

 

■ Address: 5-1 Yumoto, Minase, Yuzawa City, Akita Prefecture, Japan

■ Telephone number: 0183-47-5080

■ Useful Links: https://www.city-yuzawa.jp/site/yuzawatrip/736.html (Yuzawa City Tourism and Products Association Minase Office)

■ By Bus, for the downstream promenade: From JR Yuzawa Station → approx. 55 min on the Ugo Kotsu “Yuzawa-Oyasu Line” bus → get off at  “Kawarayu” bus stop on the Daifunyu parking lot side → walk 1 min. to the entrance to the downstream promenade

■ By Bus, for the upstream promenade: From JR Yuzawa Station → approx. 55 min on the Ugo Kotsu “Yuzawa-Oyasu Line” bus → get off at  “Tokotonyama” bus stop on the Kaneko Shoten side → walk 1 min. to the entrance to the upstream promenade

■ By Car: from Yuzawa-Yokote Road “Yuzawa IC”  on Route 398 → approx. 45 minutes  → Destination

■ Parking: available, free.

Parking lot at the downstream promenade entrance: approx. 60 cars. Parking lot at the upstream promenade entrance: approx. 10 cars.