Tottori > Misasa Onsen(三朝温泉): A small unknown town with multiple hot springs
※Description:
Located in Tottori Province, Misasa Onsen (三朝温泉) is one of Japan’s most unique hot spring destinations. This small town is known for its many natural onsen (温泉), situated along the Misasa River, allowing visitors to soak in radon-rich waters while enjoying a setting surrounded by mountains and lush vegetation. Here, the atmosphere is quiet and with few tourists, making it an ideal place for those looking to relax without the crowds typical of other tourist destinations.
In addition to its hot springs, Misasa Onsen is an excellent starting point for exploring the nature and culture of the region. Just a few kilometres away is Mitokusan (三徳山), a sacred mountain that is home to the Sanbutsuji temple and its famous Nageiredo pavilion, a structure built into a cliff that seems to defy gravity. Although we won’t go into details in this post, this excursion adds a touch of adventure for visitors who wish to discover more about Tottori’s historical and spiritual heritage.
Just about 30 minutes away by train is the city of Tottori (鳥取市), famous for its vast sand dunes that stretch along the Sea of Japan. The city, with its beaches and coastal scenery, is the perfect complement to a complete getaway: you can enjoy a day of exploration by the sea and then relax in the onsens of Misasa. For those looking to relax in a less touristy place, enjoy quality onsen and immerse themselves in the rich Japanese culture, Misasa is an ideal choice.
Misasa-kan (三朝館): A Relaxing Oasis and Hot Springs in Misasa Onsen
One of the most popular accommodations in Misasa is Misasa-kan (三朝館), a ryokan famous for its impressive array of rotenburo (露天風呂), or open-air baths. The ryokan offers guests a complete hot spring experience with multiple outdoor baths in different styles, from rock-lined pools to wooden baths, overlooking the surrounding nature. The serenity of the rotenburo, combined with the fresh mountain air, provides an unparalleled experience of relaxation. In addition, the Japanese cuisine served at Misasa-kan is another of its attractions: dishes made with local and seasonal ingredients offer a true taste of the flavours of Tottori.
※NTRanking: 7.5 / 10
Misasa Onsen is a gem that is little explored by foreign tourists, which ensures a more authentic and peaceful experience. Although this destination is popular with the Japanese, especially during holidays and long weekends, during the week it remains much quieter, allowing you to enjoy the onsen and the landscapes without crowds.
For those looking for a place of rest in the middle of nature and without the hustle and bustle of large crowds, Misasa Onsen is an ideal choice, offering a relaxing atmosphere at any time of the year.
※How to Get There:
・From Tottori (1 hour 10 minutes):
Take the JR Sanin Line from Tottori Station (鳥取駅).
Get off at Kurayoshi Station (倉吉駅), which will take approximately 50 minutes.
From Kurayoshi Station, take a local bus which will take you to Misasa Onsen in approximately 20 minutes.
・From Osaka (3 hours):
Take the JR Limited Express Super Hakuto Line from Tottori Station (鳥取駅). Osaka (大阪駅).
Get off at Kurayoshi Station (倉吉駅), which will take approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
From Kurayoshi Station, take a local bus that will take you to Misasa Onsen in about 20 minutes.
・From Okayama (1 hour and 50 minutes):
Take the JR Limited Express Super Inaba Line from Okayama Station (岡山駅).
Get off at Kurayoshi Station (倉吉駅), with a travel time of around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
From Kurayoshi Station, take a local bus which will take you to Misasa Onsen in about 20 minutes.
※Address:
973-1 Misasa, Tōhaku District, Tottori 682-0123
