Shiga > Takarabune Onsen (宝船温泉): Relaxation on the Biwako Shore
※Description:
Located on the tranquil shore of Lake Biwa (琵琶湖) in Shiga Prefecture, Takarabune Onsen (宝船温泉) is a unique place for those seeking an authentic and health-enhancing relaxation experience. Whether you prefer to stay at its ryokan, Yumoto Kotobuki (湯元ことぶき) or simply enjoy a day in its hot springs, this site offers an unforgettable experience.
Healing properties of the waters
Takarabune Onsen is known as a “beauty onsen” (美人の湯) due to the exceptional properties of its waters. Rich in metasilicate (メタケイ酸), iron, and carbon dioxide, these murky waters are renowned for their benefits to the skin and body. In addition to improving circulation and relieving fatigue, the onsen is one of the few places recommended for treating skin problems such as atopic dermatitis. With consistent use, visitors often notice significant improvements in their skin and overall well-being.
Facilities & Experience
The onsen has separate baths for men and women, with interiors that offer a relaxing atmosphere. They also have a rotenburo (outdoor bath) available for private use upon reservation. If you don’t plan to stay at the ryokan, you can opt for the one-day bath option, available from 9:00 to 20:00 for an affordable price (¥700 for adults, ¥350 for children).
The Yumoto Kotobuki ryokan offers a complete experience for those who wish to extend their stay. With traditional rooms and a sauna to complement the hot spring baths, it is the perfect place to relax while enjoying the views of Lake Biwa.
Tranquil atmosphere
Despite its benefits and beauty, Takarabune Onsen is a little-known place and is usually quiet during the week. However, on weekends it attracts more visitors due to the quality of its waters and its reputation as a wellness retreat.
A hidden gem
Takarabune Onsen is not only a place to relax, but also an opportunity to take care of your health and revitalize yourself in a peaceful environment. If you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the benefits of a traditional onsen, this is the ideal place.
※NTRanking: 8.5 / 10
宝船温泉 (Takarabune Onsen) stands out as a quiet gem on the shores of Lake Biwa, ideal for those seeking a relaxing and therapeutic experience. Its natural hot springs, rich in metasilicate and iron, are especially beneficial for improving the skin, including conditions such as atopic dermatitis. Although it is a little-known place, its popularity grows during the weekends due to the quality of its baths and reputation as a “beauty onsen.”
The serene atmosphere, together with the possibility of enjoying a sauna or relaxing in a lakeside ryokan, make it a perfect destination for those looking to unwind. However, its secluded location and the absence of large crowds outside of holidays make it even more attractive for those seeking tranquility. It is a place that combines tradition, nature and well-being in a unique experience.
※How to Get There:
・From Kyoto (80-90 minutes):
Board the JR Biwako Line from Kyoto Station (京都駅).
Get off at Omi-Imazu station (近江今津駅) after a journey of approximately 65 minutes.
From Omi-Imazu, take a taxi or local bus to Takarabune Onsen (宝船温泉), which will take about 15 minutes.
・From Fukui (75-85 minutes):
Take the JR Hokuriku Line from Fukui Station (福井駅).
Get off at Tsuruga Station (敦賀駅), a journey time of about 25 minutes.
Transfer to the JR Biwako Line and continue to Omi-Imazu Station (近江今津駅), which will take about 35 minutes.
From Omi-Imazu , take a taxi or local bus to Takarabune Onsen (宝船温泉), a 15-minute ride.
※Address:
2248-2 Adogawacho Shimoogawa, Takashima, Shiga 520-1223
