Kaike Onsen

Stretching along the white sands of Yumigahama beach on the coast of Yonago City, Kaike Onsen is one of the largest hot spring resorts in the San'in region. Thanks to its position facing the Sea of Japan, many inns let you gaze directly at the water from their baths and rooms, while the graceful cone of Mount Daisen rises across the bay. The seaside scene, where the scent of the tide mingles with rising steam, offers a bracing freshness quite unlike inland spa towns.

Highlights

A promenade runs along the shoreline, and in the morning you can watch the sun climb from the horizon. Kaike is also known as the place where Japan's first triathlon was held in 1981, and a monument on the beach commemorates that origin. There is a seaside foot bath as well, where you can casually enjoy the water while listening to the sound of the waves.

Enjoying the Seasons

Summer brings crowds to the swimming beach, and cooling off on the sand after a bath is a popular way to pass the time. From autumn into winter, San'in delicacies such as snow crab and other seafood grace the table. On clear winter mornings, the contrast between the snow-capped Mount Daisen and the sea is especially beautiful, a scene photographers will find irresistible.

Access and Basic Information

It is about a twenty-minute bus ride from JR Yonago Station and roughly thirty minutes by car from Yonago Kitaro Airport, making access convenient. Day-use bathing facilities and a seaside foot bath let non-guests enjoy the waters too. Being a large resort, it offers a wide range of lodging suited to everyone from families to solo travelers.

A Quick Tip

If you are after the sunrise, choose a sea-facing room or take an early-morning walk along the shore. Winter can bring strong winds typical of the Sea of Japan coast, so carrying an extra layer will keep you comfortable.