Sumoto Onsen

On the east coast of Awaji island, stretching along Oahama Beach in Sumoto City, Sumoto Onsen is known as the heart of Awaji tourism. Mount Mikuma rises behind it while a beach of white sand and green pines spreads in front, giving it the charm of both sea and mountain views. Large inns and hotels line the shore, with ocean panoramas of Osaka Bay from open-air baths and guest rooms.

Highlights

The water, welling up from the foot of Mount Mikuma, is gentle and soft on the skin. In the seaside open-air baths you can soak slowly while feeling the sea breeze. Oahama Beach lies just beside the resort, perfect for a walk or a swim. The ruins of Sumoto Castle on the hilltop, with their fine views, are well worth pairing with a visit.

Enjoying the Seasons

Summer fills the area with beachgoers and marine activities, and a soak after a day in the sea feels especially good. Awaji island offers rich seafood year round, from spring sea bream to winter pufferfish, each season bringing its own flavors. The mild island climate makes for a relaxed and leisurely stay.

Access and Basic Information

From the Kobe direction, take the Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway to the Sumoto Interchange, then drive about a dozen minutes. Highway buses run from many cities. Some inns offer day-use bathing, so you can enjoy the springs easily whether or not you stay overnight.

A Quick Tip

An open-air bath while watching the sea at dusk is sublime. Choosing an inn with sea-facing rooms or a view bath lets you feel the openness that is unique to Awaji island all the more.