Jinata Onsen

Shikinejima, one of the Izu Islands reached by ferry south from Tokyo, is home to Jinata Onsen, a wild spring that wells up on the coast in its natural state. The water rises in a V-shaped cleft that looks as if it were split by a machete, and as the tide rises and falls it mixes with seawater to reach a comfortable temperature. The brownish, iron-rich water and the openness of the rock-and-sea setting give it a force found nowhere else.

Highlights

- A striking landscape in a V-shaped cleft that looks split by a blade - A natural wild bath whose temperature shifts with the tide - A distinctive brownish water rich in iron - An open soak that feels at one with the sea

Enjoying the Seasons

Since this is a seaside wild bath entered in a swimsuit, the warmer seasons are the most enjoyable. In summer pair it with sea bathing, and in spring or autumn a soak in the clear air while listening to the waves is something special. Because the temperature changes greatly with the tide, choosing the hours around high tide gives you just the right warmth.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Shikinejima, Niijima Village, Tokyo (along the coast) - Access: on foot from Nobushi Port, with a downhill stretch of stairs along the way - Swimwear is required, free to use and open 24 hours - A natural wild bath with no changing rooms or showers

A Quick Tip

The footing is slippery and there are no changing rooms, so it helps to bring something to throw on over your swimsuit and a pair of sandals. There are also hours when the tide makes bathing impossible, so check a tide table before heading out. Because it is a hot spring in its natural state, take care for your safety as you enjoy it.