Akan Yuku No Sato Tsuruga

Nestled by the serene Lake Akan, Tsuruga Akan Resort offers an immersive onsen experience wrapped in Ainu heritage and modern luxury. While the resort falls short on its buffet—a rather underwhelming spread given the price range comparable to other premium onsen resorts—it more than makes up for it with its impressive array of onsen baths, each designed to provide a unique and rejuvenating experience. The resort is split between the Main Building and the newer Wing Building. The Main Building exudes a more traditional atmosphere, while the Wing Building presents a contemporary take on relaxation, but both are bound together by their dedication to Ainu motifs—from the intricately designed lift doors to the towels, celebrating the indigenous culture of Hokkaido. The onsen baths are, without a doubt, the crown jewel of the resort. In the Main Building, the basement offers an extraordinary variety of baths, from the enchanting Cave Bath to the rustic Log Bath, carved from a thousand-year-old tree. The Bubble Bath delivers a gentle, soothing soak, but the Massage Bath steals the show. With water shooting from a high ceiling, targeting sore muscles in the shoulders and back, it’s a deeply therapeutic experience. On the 8th floor, the sauna is housed in a stunning dome-shaped glass structure, offering unobstructed views of the sky while you steam. However, the real spectacle lies at the basement’s open-air bath, which directly overlooks Lake Akan. The sight of the lake at dawn, with the morning mist hovering above the water, is nothing short of breathtaking. The Wing Building showcases a more modern onsen experience, headlined by its hot stone sauna. It blends traditional and contemporary design, featuring hot and cold stone rooms adorned with intricate Ainu-inspired motifs. It’s an ideal retreat for those seeking a fusion of modern wellness with cultural depth. An added touch of luxury is the availability of centennial Akan spring water, served for drinking at the onsen baths. Renowned for its purity and health benefits, it’s a refreshing complement to the onsen experience, keeping guests hydrated while they indulge in the various baths. While the buffet could use an upgrade to match the overall quality of the resort, the unmatched variety of onsen baths more than compensates. The meticulous attention to design, cultural elements, and breathtaking views make this resort a standout among onsen destinations.