Misasa Onsen — relief & relaxation | Compare & book inns

Overview

The discovery of Misasa Onsen dates back over 850 years to the Heian period. According to legend, the great monk Jikaku Daishi prayed to save people suffering from illness, and a white wolf appeared, guiding him to the source of the spring. This legend has earned it the nickname "Hot Spring of the White Wolf Legend."

Charming traditional inns line the clear Mitoku River, and at the heart of the town lies the "Kawahara-buro," a mixed-gender open-air bath that is free for anyone to use. Furthermore, with a branch of Okayama University Hospital located here, the medicinal effects of the springs have long been a subject of scientific research, drawing attention to their therapeutic properties.

Primary Spring Type and Benefits

The most defining feature of Misasa Onsen is its radioactive spring, boasting one of the highest radon concentrations in the world. By absorbing radon through the skin while bathing, the digestive tract by drinking, and the lungs by inhaling the vapor, a "hormesis effect" is expected, which activates cells. This is thought to lead to immune system stimulation and pain relief.

• Gout (hyperuricemia)The spring's radon is said to promote metabolism via a hormesis effect. This enhanced metabolic function may help the body better process and excrete excess uric acid, which is the underlying cause of gout.
• Rheumatoid arthritisThe hormesis effect from the spring's radon is thought to activate cells and enhance natural healing processes. This action may help reduce the chronic inflammation and pain characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis.
• Ankylosing spondylitisThe spring's radon-induced hormesis effect is believed to stimulate cellular activity and natural healing. This may help reduce the spinal inflammation and stiffness that are hallmarks of this condition.
• Gastrointestinal hypofunction
• High cholesterol

Water Characteristics & Best Season

The spring water is clear, colorless, and gentle on the skin, warming the body from its core. Many inns offer gensen-kakenagashi (free-flowing spring water), allowing you to enjoy the freshest water. Drinking fountains are also available in various locations, which are said to help regulate digestive functions.

Misasa Onsen can be enjoyed year-round, but autumn and winter are particularly recommended. In autumn, the surrounding mountains, including Mt. Mitoku, are colored with beautiful foliage. In winter, bathing while viewing the snowy landscape is exceptional, and savoring Matsuba crab, the king of winter delicacies from the Sea of Japan, is a major attraction.

Access

Nearby Sightseeing & Local Cuisine

• Sanbutsu-ji Temple Nageire-do Hall: A National Treasure hall built into a sheer cliff face.
• Kurayoshi White Wall Storehouses: A picturesque townscape from the Edo and Meiji periods along the Tamagawa River.
• Kawahara-buro: A 24-hour, free, mixed-gender open-air bath on the banks of the Mitoku River.
• Koitanibashi Bridge: A spot for finding love, decorated with statues of Kajika frogs.
• Onsen Hondori Shopping Street: A retro shopping street where you can enjoy target shooting games and strolling.
• Tochimochi: A local specialty of rice cake mixed with Japanese horse chestnut, known for its slightly bitter flavor.
• Winter Matsuba Crab: In season from November to March. Enjoy it as sashimi, grilled, or in a hot pot.
• 20th Century Pears (Nijisseiki Nashi): A juicy pear representing Tottori Prefecture. Many related sweets are available.