Hanamaki Onsen

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Hanamaki Onsen's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Relaxation at the Onsen
morning
:

Start your day with a rejuvenating soak in the hot springs of Hanamaki Onsen, immersing yourself in the warm, mineral-rich waters. Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at your ryokan, featuring local delicacies such as grilled fish and miso soup. Take in the serene views of the surrounding mountains while sipping on freshly brewed green tea.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful grounds of the Hanamaki Onsen area, where you can stroll through gardens adorned with seasonal flowers. Visit the nearby Hanamaki Onsen Historical Museum to learn about the area's rich cultural heritage and the history of onsen bathing. End your exploration with a peaceful walk along the river, enjoying the sounds of nature and the tranquil atmosphere.

evening
:

As the sun sets, return to your ryokan for an exquisite kaiseki dinner, a multi-course meal that showcases the best of local cuisine. After dinner, participate in a traditional tea ceremony, where you can learn about the art of making and enjoying matcha. Conclude your day with another soak in the onsen, allowing the warm waters to soothe your body under the starlit sky.

day 2
Cultural Immersion at the Local Shrine
morning
:

Visit the famous Hanamaki Onsen Shrine, where you can participate in morning rituals and observe local worship practices. Wander through the shrine's grounds, taking in the beauty of its architecture and the surrounding nature. Capture the moment with photos as you watch the morning sunlight filtering through the trees.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local eatery, savoring traditional soba noodles made from locally sourced buckwheat. Afterward, take a guided tour of the nearby historical sites, including the ruins of the Hanamaki Castle, where you can learn about the region's feudal past. Engage with local artisans who offer demonstrations of traditional crafts such as pottery and textiles.

evening
:

Return to the shrine for a special evening ceremony, where you can witness traditional music and dance performances. After the ceremony, head to a local izakaya for a casual dinner, trying various small dishes and enjoying regional sake. Cap off the night with a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets of Hanamaki, soaking in the local nightlife.

day 3
Nature Trails and Scenic Views
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a hike through the beautiful trails of the Hanamaki area. Enjoy the fresh mountain air as you immerse yourself in the stunning scenery, with views of lush forests and distant peaks. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, and take breaks to appreciate the serene environment.

afternoon
:

After your hike, treat yourself to a picnic lunch at a scenic overlook, where you can relax while enjoying the breathtaking views. Spend the afternoon visiting the Hanamaki Flower Park, which features a spectacular display of seasonal blooms and themed gardens. Explore the park's walking paths, taking time to pause and appreciate the beauty of your surroundings.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to your ryokan for a restorative soak in the onsen, easing any fatigue from your hiking adventure. Enjoy a simple yet delicious dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients, allowing you to taste the essence of the region. End your evening with a quiet moment in the ryokan's garden, listening to the sounds of the night.

day 4
Art and Local Crafts Discovery
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, sampling freshly baked goods and artisanal coffee made from locally roasted beans. Afterward, visit the Hanamaki Art Museum, where you can admire works from local artists that reflect the culture and history of the region. Take time to engage with the exhibits and soak in the artistic atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Participate in a hands-on pottery workshop, where you can create your own unique piece of art under the guidance of a skilled artisan. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant known for its seasonal dishes, allowing the flavors to inspire your creativity. Afterward, browse local craft shops, picking up handmade souvenirs to commemorate your visit.

evening
:

Attend a special artist talk or demonstration at the museum, where you can engage directly with local artists and learn about their creative processes. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant that features a fusion of traditional Japanese and modern culinary techniques, experiencing innovative flavors. End the evening with a quiet walk through the illuminated streets, reflecting on the artistic inspirations of your day.

day 5
Adventure at the Local Waterfalls
morning
:

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before setting out to explore the beautiful waterfalls surrounding Hanamaki. Take a guided nature walk to the stunning Furepe Waterfall, where you can witness the rushing water and lush greenery. Capture memorable photos as you enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this natural wonder.

afternoon
:

After spending time at the waterfall, enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic picnic spot nearby, surrounded by nature's beauty. Continue your adventure by hiking to the nearby Goshogake Waterfall, where you can marvel at the cascading water and the unique rock formations. Take a moment to relax and appreciate the peaceful sounds of the forest around you.

evening
:

Return to your ryokan for a well-deserved soak in the onsen, soothing your muscles after a day of exploration. Relish a delightful dinner featuring fresh river fish and seasonal vegetables, prepared with care by the ryokan's chefs. As the evening draws to a close, enjoy a quiet moment on your balcony, listening to the sounds of the river flowing nearby.

day 6
Exploring the Local Market
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at your ryokan, then head to the vibrant Hanamaki Morning Market, where locals gather to sell fresh produce and artisanal goods. Wander through the stalls, sampling seasonal fruits and vegetables while interacting with friendly vendors. Take in the lively atmosphere and vibrant colors as you shop for unique souvenirs.

afternoon
:

After exploring the market, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, featuring dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Spend the afternoon discovering the nearby traditional crafts workshops, where you can watch artisans at work and even try your hand at various crafts. Engage in conversations with the artisans, learning about their techniques and the stories behind their creations.

evening
:

Return to your ryokan for a relaxing onsen experience, letting the warm waters wash away the day's adventures. For dinner, indulge in a traditional meal featuring handmade soba noodles and seasonal side dishes that reflect the flavors of Hanamaki. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the town, enjoying the charming ambiance of the illuminated streets.

day 7
Historical Journey to Local Temples
morning
:

After breakfast, embark on a visit to the historic temple of Kanjizai-ji, known for its beautiful wooden structures and serene gardens. Spend some time walking the temple grounds, taking in the tranquility and peacefulness of this sacred site. Engage in a moment of reflection or meditation, allowing the surroundings to inspire calmness within you.

afternoon
:

Continue your historical journey by visiting the nearby temple of Shōtoku-ji, where you can learn about its significance and the stories that have shaped the community. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery, where you can taste traditional vegetarian dishes inspired by Buddhist cuisine. Afterward, take part in a guided tour that delves deeper into the history of Hanamaki's temples and their cultural importance.

evening
:

Return to your ryokan for a soothing soak in the onsen, reflecting on the rich history you've experienced throughout the day. Savor a delicious dinner featuring a variety of seasonal dishes that highlight the region's culinary heritage. As night falls, enjoy a peaceful evening walk, taking in the quiet beauty of the temples illuminated under the stars.

day 8
Exploration of Local Wildlife
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at your ryokan, followed by a visit to the nearby Hanamaki Wildlife Park, home to a variety of native species. Spend the morning observing animals in their natural habitats and learning about the conservation efforts in place to protect them. Capture memorable photos of the diverse wildlife as you explore the park's well-maintained trails.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a café within the park, sampling dishes made with locally sourced ingredients while overlooking the beautiful landscape. After lunch, join a guided wildlife tour, where an expert will share insights about the local ecosystem and the animals that inhabit the area. Keep your eyes peeled for rare species and enjoy the excitement of spotting wildlife.

evening
:

Return to your ryokan for a soak in the onsen, allowing the warmth to relax your muscles after a day of exploration. For dinner, indulge in a meal featuring local game and seasonal vegetables, experiencing the unique flavors of the region. Conclude your day with a quiet evening, perhaps savoring a cup of matcha while reflecting on your wildlife adventures.

day 9
Culinary Journey Through Hanamaki
morning
:

Kick off your culinary journey with a breakfast featuring local ingredients, setting the stage for a day of gastronomic exploration. Visit a nearby farm where you can learn about the cultivation of local produce and even participate in a cooking class. Engage with the farmers, gaining insights into their sustainable practices and the importance of local food sources.

afternoon
:

After your cooking class, enjoy the fruits of your labor with a delicious lunch made from the dishes you've prepared. Spend the afternoon visiting local breweries, where you can sample regional sake and learn about the brewing process. Engage in discussions with the brewers, gaining a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship involved in sake production.

evening
:

Return to your ryokan for a final soak in the onsen, allowing the warmth to relax you after a full day of culinary delights. For dinner, indulge in a special meal featuring a fusion of traditional and modern Japanese cuisine, highlighting the flavors you've encountered throughout your journey. End your trip with a celebratory toast of local sake, reflecting on the wonderful experiences and flavors you've discovered in Hanamaki.

Discover Hanamaki Onsen

Read more in our Hanamaki Onsen 2025 Travel Guide.

Hanamaki Onsen Travel Guide