Hondani Onsen

Rising in the hills of Saijo, Hondani Onsen is one of the three great hot springs of Iyo alongside Dogo and Nibukawa. It is a spring of great pedigree, said to have hosted the ancient emperors Jomei and Saimei.

Highlights

The water is a gentle, low-tonicity alkaline cold mineral spring that is kind to the skin. The day-use bathhouse offers saunas, cold baths and open-air pools, with two distinct large baths rotated between the mens and womens sides.

Enjoying the Seasons

The surrounding countryside is lush and green, glowing with fresh leaves in spring and crimson foliage in autumn. Bathing in the open air brings a different mood in each season.

Access and Basic Information

Located in the Kounouchi district, a drive up into the hills from central Saijo. The baths open from morning until night and are open year-round.

A Quick Tip

Alternating between the sauna and the open-air cool-down is popular here. Settle into this historic spring and let the fatigue melt away.