Kaike Onsen — relief & relaxation | Compare & book inns

Overview

Kaike Onsen is a scenic hot spring area located in western Tottori Prefecture, right on the coast of the Sea of Japan. Its history is relatively recent, beginning in 1900 when a local fisherman discovered hot water bubbling up from the seabed. The auspicious name 'Kaike,' meaning 'all will live,' helped it grow into one of the San'in region's premier resorts.

Modern hotels and traditional ryokan inns line the beautiful Yumigahama coastline, which bustles with beachgoers in the summer. Due to its unique origin, the water is rich in salt and is said to be beneficial for health and beauty. It's a charming place to refresh both mind and body while enjoying seaside walks and cycling.

Key Spring Quality and Benefits

The main spring type is a Sodium/Calcium-Chloride spring. With a composition similar to seawater, its high salt content creates a 'veil' on the skin, preventing body heat from escaping. This results in a lasting, restorative warmth. This effect is expected to promote blood circulation and may contribute to pain relief.

• CutsThe high salt concentration in this chloride spring provides a natural cleansing action. This property may aid the healing of minor cuts by helping to keep the wound clean.
• Poor peripheral circulation
• Sensitivity to coldThe high salt content creates an insulating film on the skin. This helps the body retain heat, making you less likely to feel chilled after bathing and providing lasting warmth for those sensitive to cold.
• Dry skinThe minerals in the water form a thin layer on the skin, which helps to lock in moisture. This 'salt pack' effect may combat dryness, leaving the skin feeling hydrated and smooth.
• Rheumatoid arthritis

Water Characteristics and Best Season

The water at Kaike Onsen is clear and slightly salty. While it feels refreshing after bathing, the salt components coat the skin, leaving it feeling moisturized. The source temperature is high, but it is adjusted to a comfortable level at each facility. Many inns offer gensen-kakenagashi (free-flowing) spring water.

Thanks to its powerful warming effect, the winter season is especially recommended for those who easily get cold. An outdoor bath with a view of a snowy landscape is an exceptional experience. Meanwhile, summer is the perfect season to enjoy both sea bathing and onsen. Each season offers its own unique charm.

Access

Nearby Attractions and Local Cuisine

• Mizuki Shigeru Road: A popular tourist street in Sakaiminato, lined with bronze statues of 'yokai' (supernatural monsters).
• Mt. Daisen: The highest peak in the Chugoku region. Enjoy hiking, skiing, and seasonal nature like fresh greenery and autumn leaves.
• Adachi Museum of Art: World-famous for its collection of Yokoyama Taikan's works and its vast, stunning Japanese garden.
• Tottori Hanakairo Flower Park: One of Japan's largest flower parks, with beautiful blossoms year-round.
• Seafood in Sakaiminato: A major fishing port. Enjoy fresh seafood like winter snow crab (matsuba-gani) and summer white squid and rock oysters.
• Kaike Onsen Beach: A beautiful beach selected as one of Japan's 100 best beaches. Also known as the 'birthplace of triathlon in Japan.'
• Gyukotsu Ramen: A local ramen from central-western Tottori. Features a fragrant and rich soup made from beef bones.