Misasa Onsen

Near the geographic center of Tottori Prefecture, wooden inns lean shoulder to shoulder along both banks of the Mitoku River, forming the spa town of Misasa Onsen. It is prized as one of the world's rare high-concentration radon springs, where trace amounts of natural radiation are said to gently stimulate the body. Long cherished as a place for extended therapeutic bathing, soaking here to the murmur of the river quietly loosens the fatigue of daily life.

Highlights

The Mitoku River that runs through the town holds a free open-air riverbed bath, a mixed-gender pool that has become a local emblem of relaxed, open bathing. Stone-paved lanes still shelter shooting galleries and retro amusement halls, and strolling through them in a yukata wraps you in the mood of a mid-century spa town. A short trip away stands Sanbutsuji Temple on Mount Mitoku, famous for its cliff-hanging Nageiredo hall, where hot springs and mountain asceticism form a single cultural landscape.

Enjoying the Seasons

Spring brings cherry blossoms along the river, while early summer offers the dreamlike sight of fireflies dancing over the water at night. Autumn tints the surrounding mountains, making a post-bath walk especially pleasant. In winter, steam rises over the snow-dusted town, filling the hushed streets with quiet atmosphere. This ever-changing riverside scenery is the town's great charm.

Access and Basic Information

From JR Kurayoshi Station it is about a twenty-minute bus ride. The area is also easy to reach from the Yubara interchange on the Yonago Expressway and from the Tottori City direction. Day-use bathing facilities, public bathhouses, and free foot baths are scattered throughout, so you can enjoy the waters even without staying overnight.

A Quick Tip

The riverbed bath is an open, mixed-gender pool, so bringing a towel or a bathing garment will help you relax. In the evening, the area around the illuminated bridge is wonderfully photogenic, so pair a yukata stroll with a few pictures.