Kotohira Onsen Kotosankaku: Day-Use Hot Spring Prices

Standing close to the approach to Konpira Shrine, this large hot spring inn sits at the very gateway of the famous pilgrimage. After climbing the long stone stairway, travelers can soothe tired legs in its generous baths. It comprises two buildings, Sansuikan and Hitenkan, with a large bath and a garden open-air bath.

Highlights

The spacious main bath and view bath look out over the town of Kotohira and the Sanuki plain. Guests may also enjoy touches of local hospitality, such as live koto music, that capture the spirit of Konpira. A garden open-air bath and sauna are on hand as well.

Enjoying the Seasons

Spring brings a lively approach road, summer offers fireworks and festivals, autumn paints the hills in color, and winter reveals crisp night views. A bowl of Sanuki udon or Seto Inland Sea seafood makes the perfect after-bath treat.

Access and Basic Information

It is about a five-minute walk from JR Kotohira Station and within walking distance of Kotoden Kotohira Station, just steps from the main shrine approach, making it easy to combine worship with an overnight stay. It is roughly ten minutes by car from the Zentsuji interchange on the Takamatsu Expressway.

Practical Travel Notes

This is chiefly an inn for overnight guests, though at times it accepts day-trip bathing within limited hours. Whether it is offered, along with the fee and reception times, varies by season, so if you hope to bathe, confirm in advance by the official site or phone to be sure. Walking shoes are lent for the Konpira pilgrimage, and the main approach is about a five-minute walk away. A shuttle from JR Kotohira Station may be arranged by prior reservation.

A Quick Tip

Staying the night lets you enjoy the quiet approach at dawn and dusk. Wear comfortable shoes for the stone steps. If you are considering a day-trip soak, always check in advance whether it is being offered.

Sightseeing Checklist

• Estimated time: Take your time with an overnight stay; allow half a day or more for the shrine visit
• What to bring: Comfortable shoes for the shrine visit (785 stone steps)
• Best season: All year, and popular in the cherry blossom and autumn leaf seasons
• Avoiding the crowds: The approach is busy at weekends and over long weekends, so a morning visit is recommended
• Nearby stops: Kotohiragu Shrine, eating your way along the approach, and the Kanamaruza kabuki theatre

📚 Sources

This article is compiled from tourism information for Kagawa Prefecture, including Takamatsu City, Shodoshima Town, Manno Town and Kanonji City and information published by the individual facilities. Fees, opening hours and closing days may change, so please check each facility's official information before setting out.

Practical Information for Your Visit

• Location: 685-11 Kotohira-cho, Nakatado-gun, Kagawa Prefecture 766-0001 (tel. 0877-75-1000 / reception 9:00-19:00, fax 0877-75-0600)
• Bathing hours: The large communal bath on the first floor of the Sansuikan wing is open 5:00-9:30 and 15:00-24:00 (the men's and women's baths are swapped in the morning). The open-air view bath "Yakumo no Yu" on the 10th floor of the Hitenkan wing is open 5:00-10:00 and 15:00-24:00
• Day-use bathing: As of July 2026 there is no information about day-use bathing on the official website. The large baths are facilities for overnight guests. If you wish to use them, be sure to phone in advance to check
• A bath for overnight guests only: The open-air view bath "Yakumo no Yu" is reserved for guests staying in the Hitenkan wing
• Source and water quality: The source is named "Kotohira-cho Chikoin Onsen," and the water is a simple radioactive cold mineral spring
• Officially listed benefits: Neuralgia, muscle pain, joint pain, frozen shoulder, motor paralysis, joint stiffness, bruises, sprains, chronic digestive disorders, hemorrhoids, sensitivity to cold, recovery from fatigue, general health promotion, gout, arteriosclerosis, chronic cholecystitis, gallstones, chronic skin conditions and chronic gynecological conditions
• Those who should avoid bathing: The official website asks that, as a rule, people with acute illnesses (especially with a fever), active tuberculosis, malignant tumors, serious heart disease, respiratory failure, kidney failure, hemorrhagic disorders, severe anemia or any other progressing illness, and women who are pregnant (especially in the early and late stages), refrain from bathing
• Amenities: Body soap, shampoo, conditioner, towels and hairdryers are provided (for the large bath in the Sansuikan wing, bring a bath towel from your room)
• Access / shuttle service: About a 5-minute walk from JR Kotohira Station. A free shuttle is available (reservation required in advance, 12:00-19:00)
• What needs reserving: The free shuttle from the station, and foot reflexology massage (in front of the large bath on the first floor of the Sansuikan wing / 16:00-23:00, last reception 22:30 / from 2,200 yen for 20 minutes, tax included)

* The spring water is not drinkable (as stated on the official website).

* It is 785 stone steps up to the main hall of Konpira-san (Kotohiragu Shrine). Wear comfortable shoes and be sure to carry water in summer.

(Sources: Kotohira Onsen Kotosankaku official website. As of July 2026)