Shikano Onsen

In Shikano, part of Tottori City, this spa sits beside the castle town built by the Warring States lord Kamei Korenori. Across the Kawachi River lie the ruins of Shikano Castle and an old post road, so you can enjoy bathing and a history walk in one visit. It is also a village where flower cultivation using geothermal warmth flourishes, and peaceful scenery colored by seasonal blooms spreads all around.

Highlights

The Shikano Castle ruins still hold their stone walls and moats and are cherished as a cherry-blossom spot. The castle town preserves old streets with lattice doors, and a stroll brings you face to face with traces of the past. Making use of the spa's warmth, freesias, irises, and roses are grown here, delighting flower lovers. Soothing a body warmed by castle walking in the waters is a fine luxury.

Enjoying the Seasons

Spring is spectacular, with cherry blossoms blanketing the castle ruins and drawing many blossom viewers. Early summer sees irises and roses in full bloom, and autumn adds charm with the foliage of the castle town. In winter, the snow-dusted ruins and quiet spa town show a crisp beauty. Flowers, history, and the waters overlapping through the year make this spa's special pleasure.

Access and Basic Information

It is about a thirty-minute drive from JR Tottori Station and reachable from the Tottori-Minami interchange on the Tottori Expressway. There are day-use bathing facilities, handy for finishing a castle-town walk. Nearby roadside stations and local product shops offer the fun of seeking out regional flowers and specialties.

A Quick Tip

During cherry-blossom season the ruins grow very crowded, so an early-morning visit lets you enjoy the flowers in quiet. The castle town is compact enough to walk, so wear comfortable shoes and enjoy the stroll together with a soak.