ABOUT
About this spot
Shirahama Onsen, which appears in the Manyoshu and the Nihon Shoki, is a historic hot spring area known as one of Japan's Three Ancient Hot Springs, alongside Arima and Dogo. Its greatest feature is an overwhelming setting in which a beautiful coastline and high-quality hot springs coexist. "Saki-no-Yu" in particular, an open-air bath so close to the sea that the spray of the waves reaches it, is a holy site that draws hot spring fans from across the country. The hot spring town is dotted with free foot baths and "soto-yu" public baths where you can drop in casually, and touring the baths while feeling the sea breeze is the real pleasure. The waters are mostly sodium chloride and bicarbonate springs, and are known for leaving skin moist after bathing. There are plenty of sights nearby, including "Shirarahama Beach" with its gleaming pure white sand, "Adventure World," where you can see pandas, and the dramatic cliffs of "Sandanbeki." Whether you enjoy an active family trip, or find healing in superb views on a girls' trip or a date, the mild climate of Nanki, fresh seafood, and superb baths promise a luxurious time away from everyday life.
Last updated March 26, 2026