Akiu Onsen, ranked among Japan’s three oldest hot springs with a history stretching back some 1,500 years, sits in a wooded gorge just 30 minutes from central Sendai. Traditional ryokan inns line the Natori River, and the dramatic 55 m Akiu Great Falls thunders down nearby, framed by maple trees that blaze crimson each autumn — making this the easiest escape-to-nature option for Sendai-based travellers.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Taihaku-ku, Sendai, Miyagi |
| Hours | Day baths and falls always open (varies by inn) |
| Admission | Day bath from ~¥800; falls free |
| Time needed | 2–3 hours |
| Best time | Autumn (foliage); year-round for onsen |
What to See
- Akiu Great Falls, a dramatic 55 m cascade.
- Traditional ryokan with day-bath options along the Natori River.
- Autumn maples framing the gorge and falls.
- A historic hot spring dating back roughly 1,500 years.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with Sendai city as a day trip.
- Pair with Miyagi crafts shopping nearby.
- Read our Miyagi overview .
Getting There
- By bus: direct buses from Sendai Station (about 50 min).
- By car: roughly 30 minutes from central Sendai.
Tips
Day-bath (higaeri onsen) options let you enjoy the hot spring without an overnight stay — check ahead, as hours vary by inn. Combine with the falls for a half-day nature escape.
