
Everything you need to know about Sanzugawa Canyon
Stay at Yuzawa Nature View Hotel, where every room faces the heart of Mifune Gorge, offering unobstructed panoramic views of the vibrant red and gold maple trees cascading down the cliffs. The hotel provides complimentary shuttle service to the gorge trailhead and features a seasonal kaiseki dining experience with locally sourced ingredients, perfect for immersing in the tranquil beauty of Akita’s mountain autumn
Choose Mifune Valley Inn, located just a 7-minute walk from the main trail entrance. This eco-friendly inn offers free parking, 24-hour shuttle service, and direct access to the guided nature path through the gorge. Its central location allows guests to start early morning hikes before crowds arrive, making it ideal for capturing serene moments amid moss-covered rocks and crystal-clear streams
Opt for Yuzawa Starlight Resort, which features an elevated viewing deck overlooking Mifune Gorge during the nightly Seasonal Light Art Festival. From 6:30 PM, the riverbanks come alive with synchronized LED projections and ambient lighting inspired by local legends. The resort also offers exclusive night-time guided tours and pre-bookable stargazing sessions on clear evenings
Consider Yuzawa Mountain Hideaway, a boutique ryokan nestled beside the gorge with private outdoor onsen pools fed by natural mineral-rich springs. Each room opens onto a forest-facing veranda, allowing you to soak while listening to the gentle flow of the stream below. With limited guest capacity, this intimate retreat ensures privacy and authentic Japanese hospitality, plus easy access to nearby nature trails
Yuzawa Kids’ Adventure Lodge is specially designed for families, featuring child-safe pathways, interactive nature workshops, and a dedicated play area surrounded by forest. The hotel organizes daily guided walks along the gentler sections of the Mifune Gorge trail, complete with educational signage about local flora and fauna. Family suites with connecting rooms and wheelchair-accessible facilities ensure comfort for all ages
Base yourself at Yuzawa Forest Stay, a sustainable retreat with rooms facing the main waterfall of Mifune Gorge. Begin your day with a guided forest hike to hidden viewpoints, then visit the nearby Akita Prefectural Nature Museum to learn about regional biodiversity. Return to the lodge for a farm-to-table dinner featuring wild mountain vegetables, followed by an evening soak in the open-air onsen under the stars—perfect for recharging after a day of discovery
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