Iwai Onsen

Tucked into the hills of Iwami Town, Iwai Onsen is said to date from the Heian period and ranks among the oldest hot springs in the San'in region. Wooden inns lining the valley along the Kamogawa River give the town a stillness, as if time had stopped. Close to the Sea of Japan coast and surrounded by the rich nature of the San'in Kaigan Geopark, it is a deeply historic village of therapeutic bathing.

Highlights

The spa's greatest signature is a distinctive bathing custom called yukamuri. Bathers place a cloth on the head and pour ladles of hot water over it while singing a traditional song; the writer Shimazaki Toson recorded its rustic charm. At the public bathhouse Yukamuri Onsen, you can still touch this living tradition. Walking the stone steps and old inn streets, the atmosphere of a bygone spa town lingers vividly.

Enjoying the Seasons

Spring fills the valley with fresh greenery, and in summer you can swim at the nearby coast. Autumn brings beautiful foliage to the hills, while in winter steam stands out against the snow-covered, quiet town. Because the site lies close to both sea and mountains, savoring the bounty of each alongside the seasons is a real pleasure.

Access and Basic Information

It is only minutes by bus or car from JR Iwami Station and easy to reach from the Tottori City direction. The public bathhouse welcomes day visitors, so you can casually experience the traditional waters. The inns are few in number, which means a quiet and restful stay.

A Quick Tip

To try yukamuri, the public bathhouse is the best place. Even if you do not know the etiquette, locals will often show you, so do not be shy about asking. Combining a visit with the nearby Uradome Coast lets you enjoy the stunning San'in seascape as well.