Kaike Onsen

Kaike Onsen Complete Guide [Yonago City, Tottori Prefecture] Thorough Explanation of the San’in Region’s Largest Seaside Hot Spring Resort

Kaike Onsen (kaike onsen), located in Yonago City, Tottori Prefecture, is a representative hot spring resort in the San’in region facing Miho Bay on the Sea of Japan. With beautiful white sandy beaches and pine forests, spectacular views of Daisen, the highest peak in the Chugoku region, abundant hot spring water with chloride mineral content welling up from the seafloor, and large-scale facilities capable of accommodating approximately 5,000 people, this resort attracts many tourists throughout the year.

This article provides comprehensive information about Kaike Onsen’s appeal, from its history and characteristics of its spring water quality to access methods, recommended ways to enjoy the area, and nearby tourist attractions.

What is Kaike Onsen? Tottori Prefecture’s Representative Seaside Hot Spring Resort

Kaike Onsen is located at the eastern end of the Yumigahama Peninsula in Yonago City, Tottori Prefecture. Within a relatively compact area of approximately 1,000 meters east to west and 400 meters north to south, diverse accommodations ranging from large hotels to long-established inns are concentrated. With an accommodation capacity of approximately 5,000 people, it boasts the largest scale in the San’in region and is sometimes called the “Atami of San’in.”

History and Discovery of Kaike Onsen

The history of Kaike Onsen dates back to the Meiji period. Among local fishermen, there was a long-standing tradition that “when diving offshore at Kaike, warm water springs forth.” Then, in Meiji 33 (1900), a naturally flowing hot spring source in the sea was officially discovered.

Initially, it was regarded as unusual as a hot spring welling up from the sea, but serious development as a full-fledged hot spring resort began in the Taisho period, and it grew into one of the San’in region’s representative major hot springs during the Showa period. In Reiwa 3, it celebrated its 121st year since its opening and continues to evolve as a noted hot spring resort.

Geographic Characteristics of Kaike Onsen

The greatest characteristic of Kaike Onsen lies in its location. The hot spring town spreads along the coastline facing Miho Bay on the Sea of Japan, and many accommodations can enjoy views of the sea. Additionally, on clear days, one can view the majestic form of Daisen (daisen, 1,729 meters above sea level), the highest peak in the Chugoku region, offering the luxurious experience of enjoying spectacular scenery of both “sea and mountains.”

The white sandy beaches and pine forests of Yumigahama Peninsula have long been known as a beautiful landscape representative of the San’in region. Particularly at dusk, the setting sun sinking into the Sea of Japan colors the entire hot spring town red, creating a fantastical atmosphere.

Kaike Onsen’s Spring Water Quality and Benefits: The Appeal of “Salt Water” Welling from the Sea

The greatest characteristic of Kaike Onsen lies in its unique spring water quality welling up from the seafloor of Miho Bay.

Characteristics of Spring Water Quality: Chloride Mineral Water

Kaike Onsen’s spring water quality is sodium calcium-chloride mineral water (salt-containing land-category mineral water). True to hot spring water welling from the seafloor, it is known as “salt water” with high salt content. When actually bathing, one can feel salt particles adhering to the skin, and it is characteristic that the body continues to feel warmly heated even after bathing.

The source spring temperature is approximately 60–83 degrees Celsius and is quite high, and the water outflow rate boasts the highest in Tottori Prefecture. Due to abundant hot spring water, many accommodations allow guests to enjoy hot springs through source spring flowing or circulation combined bathing.

Benefits of Chloride Mineral Water

Chloride mineral water is considered one of the spring water qualities with particularly high medicinal benefits among Japan’s hot springs. The chloride mineral water at Kaike Onsen is expected to have the following benefits:

General Applicable Conditions

• Neuralgia
• Muscular pain
• Joint pain
• Frozen shoulder
• Motor paralysis
• Joint stiffness
• Bruises
• Sprains
• Chronic gastrointestinal diseases
• Hemorrhoids
• Cold sensitivity
• Post-illness recovery period
• Fatigue recovery
• Health promotion

Spring Water Quality-Specific Applicable Conditions (Unique to Chloride Mineral Water)

• Cuts and wounds
• Peripheral circulation disorders
• Cold sensitivity
• Depressive states
• Dry skin

Chloride mineral water is also called “hot water,” and when salt particles adhere to the skin after bathing to form a film, body heat dissipation is prevented and the warming effect lasts longer. Due to its effectiveness in improving cold sensitivity and resistance to rapid body cooling, it is particularly popular among women.

Thalassotherapy Effects

Kaike Onsen is also receiving attention as a hot spring with elements of “thalassotherapy (marine therapy),” a natural therapy utilizing mineral components contained in seawater. In fact, Kaike Onsen can be said to be a hot spring resort that has practiced natural thalassotherapy for over 100 years.

Hot spring water rich in salt and minerals gives moisture to the skin and is also expected to produce beauty effects, which is why it is cherished as “beautiful skin water.”

Access Methods to Kaike Onsen

Kaike Onsen in Yonago City, Tottori Prefecture is located in Yonago City, a hub of transportation in the San’in region, so access from various directions is excellent.

Access by Train and Bus

From JR Yonago Station

• Board the Hinomaru Bus or Nihon Kotsu Bus heading for “Kaike Onsen area”
• Travel time: Approximately 20 minutes
• Get off at “Kaike Onsen” or “Kaike Onsen Tourist Information Center” bus stop
• Approximately 3–10 minutes walk from the bus stop to each accommodation

Access from Major Cities

• From Osaka area: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours to Yonago Station by JR Limited Express Supertokyu Hakuto
• From Okayama area: Approximately 2 hours to Yonago Station by JR Limited Express Yakumo
• From Hiroshima area: Approximately 3 hours by expressway bus or JR conventional line

Access by Car

Using Expressways

• Yonago Expressway Yonago IC: Approximately 10 minutes (approximately 6 km)
• Sanin Expressway Yonago West IC: Approximately 15 minutes (approximately 8 km)

Travel Time from Major Cities

• From Osaka: Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes via Chugoku Expressway and Yonago Expressway
• From Okayama: Approximately 2 hours via Okayama Expressway and Yonago Expressway
• From Hiroshima: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes via Chugoku Expressway and Yonago Expressway

Access by Airplane

Using Yonago Kitaro Airport (Yonago Airport)

• Approximately 20 minutes by car from airport to Kaike Onsen
• Approximately 5 flights daily from Tokyo (Haneda), travel time approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
• Airport shuttle bus to Yonago Station, then transfer to route bus

How to Enjoy Kaike Onsen: From Day Bathing to Overnight Stays

At Kaike Onsen, you can enjoy various ways to experience the area, from overnight stays to day bathing combined with sightseeing.

Day Bathing Facilities

Many inns and hotels accept day bathing, so you can enjoy the waters of Kaike Onsen without staying overnight.

General Information on Day Bathing

• Operating hours: Most facilities operate from approximately 12:00 to 15:00 (verification required)
• Charges: Approximately 800 to 2,000 yen
• Towel rentals: Many facilities offer paid rental

When using day bathing facilities, it is recommended to confirm the operating status of each facility in advance. Day bathing may be suspended on busy days or when there are many overnight guests.

Types and Characteristics of Accommodations

Kaike Onsen has a variety of accommodations, ranging from large hotels to long-established inns to small-scale lodgings that emphasize private space.

Large Hotels

• Ocean view guest rooms facing the sea
• Well-equipped hot spring facilities including large public baths and open-air baths
• Diverse meal plans including buffet and kaiseki cuisine
• Popular among group tours and families

Long-Established Inns

• Hospitality of traditional Japanese inns
• Meals served in rooms or private dining areas
• Calm atmosphere for peaceful stays
• Ideal for couples and married couples

New Style Accommodations

• Several newly opened facilities since 2019
• Private spaces, such as limited to 10 groups per day
• Fusion of modern design and tradition
• Suitable for anniversary trips and special stays

Strolling Through the Hot Spring Town

The hot spring town of Kaike Onsen is compactly organized around a promenade along the coast, offering pleasant walks in yukata robes.

Kaike Onsen Seaside Beach

• Sea bathing available during the summer season
• Just a short walk from the hot spring town
• White sandy beach and highly transparent sea water

Foot Bath Spots

• Free foot baths available at several locations in the hot spring town
• Perfect for resting during walks

Souvenir Shops and Restaurants

• Local seafood and San’in regional specialties
• Tottori wagyu beef, fresh fish and shellfish from Sakaiminato
• Cuisine using the bounty of Daisen

Tourist Attractions Around Kaike Onsen

Using Kaike Onsen as a base, you can visit fascinating tourist attractions in western Tottori Prefecture and the San’in region.

Daisen

Distance: Approximately 40 minutes by car from Kaike Onsen

Daisen (1,729 meters above sea level), the highest peak in the Chugoku region, is a famous mountain known as “Hoki Fuji” with beautiful mountain form. You can enjoy mountain climbing from spring through autumn, skiing in winter, and seasonal nature throughout the year. Historic temples and shrines such as Daisenjji Temple and Daisenzan Shrine are scattered throughout.

Sakaiminato and Mizuki Shigeru Road

Distance: Approximately 20 minutes by car from Kaike Onsen

Sakaiminato City, the birthplace of manga artist Mizuki Shigeru, features Mizuki Shigeru Road, lined with characters from “GeGeGe no Kitaro.” With 177 yokai bronze statues installed along the approximately 800-meter shopping street, you can experience the world of yokai. Sakaiminato is also one of Japan’s leading fishing ports, where you can enjoy fresh seafood.

Yonago Castle Ruins

Distance: Approximately 15 minutes by car from Kaike Onsen

Yonago Castle Ruins, located on a small hill in Yonago city center, are the remains of a castle that existed from the Warring States period through the early Edo period. Currently, with the remaining stone walls, you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama from the castle keep foundation, including views of Yonago city, the Sea of Japan, and Daisen.

Adachi Museum of Art

Distance: Approximately 50 minutes by car from Kaike Onsen

Located in Yasuki City, Shimane Prefecture, the Adachi Museum of Art is a museum internationally recognized for having Japan’s finest Japanese garden. The 50,000 tsubo Japanese garden and the collection of modern Japanese paintings including works by Yokoyama Taikan blend beautifully together.

Eshima Ohashi Bridge (Betta-Fumi Slope)

Distance: Approximately 25 minutes by car from Kaike Onsen

The Eshima Ohashi Bridge connecting Sakaiminato City and Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture, became famous as the “Betta-Fumi Slope” in an automobile commercial. Characterized by a maximum gradient of 6.1%, the bridge has become a popular photography spot due to its unique appearance of looking like a wall from a distance.

Tottori Sand Dunes

Distance: Approximately 1 hour by car from Kaike Onsen

The Tottori Sand Dunes, Japan’s largest sand dunes, are a representative tourist attraction in Tottori Prefecture. You can experience a vast world of sand, camel rides, sandboarding, and other extraordinary experiences.

The Culinary Appeal of Kaike Onsen

The Yonago City area, where Kaike Onsen is located, is blessed with both seafood from the Sea of Japan and mountain delicacies from Daisen, making it a gourmet destination.

Seafood

Fresh Seafood from Sakaiminato

• Matsuba crab (winter specialty, November–March)
• Nodoguro (popular as a high-end fish)
• White squid (summer specialty)
• Rock oysters (summer delicacy)
• Local fish such as horse mackerel and mackerel

Sakaiminato is a fishing port boasting one of Japan’s highest catch volumes, with Matsuba crab in winter being famous nationwide. Many accommodations offer cuisine using these fresh seafood items.

Mountain Delicacies

Bounty of Daisen

• Daisen chicken (brand chicken)
• Daisen ham and sausage
• Daisen dairy products
• Wild vegetables and mushrooms

Tottori Wagyu Beef

• Tottori Prefecture’s signature beef
• Fine-grained marbling and tender meat quality
• Enjoyed through diverse cooking methods including sukiyaki, shabu-shabu, and steak

Local Cuisine

Beef Bone Ramen
A local ramen specialty of western Tottori Prefecture centered on Yonago City. Characterized by broth made by simmering beef bones, offering a light yet flavorful taste.

Daisen Soba
A local dish made with soba grown at the foot of Daisen. Offering aromatic and flavorful soba.

Kaike Onsen’s Four Seasons and Events

At Kaike Onsen, you can enjoy seasonal changes in nature and various events throughout the year.

Spring (March–May)

Cherry Blossom Season

• Cherry blossoms can be enjoyed at Yonago Castle Ruins and surrounding parks
• Combination of hot springs and cherry blossom viewing is popular

Summer (June–August)

Seaside Bathing Season

• Kaike Onsen Seaside Beach opens
• You can enjoy both hot springs and seaside bathing
• Summer festivals and fireworks are held

Kaike Onsen Marine Athletics “Kai-Kai”

• Large-scale athletics set up on the sea
• Popular activity for families

Autumn (September–November)

Autumn Foliage Season

• Daisen’s autumn foliage is at its best (mid-October to early November)
• Combination of hot springs and autumn foliage viewing is popular

Season of Food

• Matsuba crab fishing season begins (November)
• Gourmet plans emphasizing autumn flavors are abundant

Winter (December–February)

Crab Season

• Matsuba crab is at its peak
• Crab-focused plans are popular
• Enjoy crab while warming yourself in hot springs

Daisen Skiing

• Winter sports at Daisen Ski Resort
• Travel combining skiing and hot springs is popular

Annual Events

Kaike Onsen Triathlon

• Held in July each year, one of the largest triathlon events in western Japan
• Attracts many participants from across the country

Kaike Onsen Fireworks Festival

• Fireworks event brightening the summer night
• Fireworks launched from the sea illuminate the hot spring town

Points for Selecting Accommodations at Kaike Onsen

With diverse accommodations at Kaike Onsen, it is important to choose according to your objectives and budget.

If You Prioritize Ocean Views

Guest rooms facing the sea offer spectacular views of the Sea of Japan and beautiful sunsets. Rooms on upper floors particularly offer outstanding views. When making reservations, specify “ocean-facing rooms” or “ocean view.”

If You Prioritize Spring Water Quality

Check the level of hot spring facilities, such as source spring flowing or private hot spring baths in rooms. The size of the large bath, availability of open-air baths, and existence of private baths are also important points.

If You Prioritize Meals

Choose accommodations with abundant meal plans using local ingredients such as Matsuba crab and Tottori wagyu beef. Also check the meal style, such as in-room dining versus dining hall and buffet versus kaiseki.

If You Prioritize Budget

Using room-only plans or one-night breakfast-included plans allows you to enjoy Kaike Onsen affordably. Staying on weekdays outside busy seasons is also economical.

If You Prioritize Privacy

Small recently opened inns or accommodations limited to a certain number of groups per day offer quiet, private time. Recommended for anniversaries and special trips.

Precautions and Etiquette When Using Kaike Onsen

Bathing Etiquette

• Always rinse yourself before bathing
• Do not put towels in the bath
• Tie up long hair
• Avoid speaking loudly
• Avoid bathing while heavily intoxicated

Precautions Specific to Chloride Mineral Water

Since Kaike Onsen’s chloride mineral water has high salt concentration, please note the following:

• After bathing, it is recommended to rinse with fresh water (due to salt remaining on the skin)
• Remove metal accessories as they may discolor
• Those with high blood pressure should avoid prolonged bathing
• Do not forget to replenish water after bathing

Precautions When Using Accommodations

• Respect check-in and check-out times
• Confirm the appropriate area for wearing yukata outside
• Keep quiet at night (consideration for other guests)

Comparison of Kaike Onsen and Nearby Hot Spring Resorts

The Tottori and San’in regions have other charming hot spring resorts.

Misasa Hot Spring (Tottori Prefecture)

Characteristics: One of the world’s leading radium hot springs
Distance: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car from Kaike Onsen
Difference: A hot spring resort in a mountainous area with a strong therapeutic spa atmosphere

Hawai and Togo Hot Springs (Tottori Prefecture)

Characteristics: Hot springs along Lake Togo
Distance: Approximately 1 hour by car from Kaike Onsen
Difference: A quiet lakeside hot spring resort

Tamatsukuri Hot Spring (Shimane Prefecture)

Characteristics: Famous as a beautiful skin hot spring
Distance: Approximately 1 hour by car from Kaike Onsen
Difference: An older hot spring resort emphasizing beauty skin effects

The characteristics of Kaike Onsen are its seaside location, chloride mineral water quality, large-scale hot spring town, and convenience near Yonago city center. It is especially recommended for those who want to enjoy both sea and mountains and those who prioritize accessibility.

Future Prospects for Kaike Onsen

Kaike Onsen, now over 120 years since its opening, continues to create new attractions.

Opening of New Accommodations

Since 2019, several new inns and hotels with modern designs have opened, and facilities accommodating younger generations and foreign tourists have increased. While preserving traditions, the area continues to evolve to match the times.

Initiatives in Wellness Tourism

Drawing on the health benefits of chloride mineral water, efforts to incorporate thalassotherapy and wellness programs into extended-stay tourism are advancing. Wellness programs utilizing hot springs and natural environments of the sea and mountains are receiving attention.

Inbound Response

In response to increasing foreign tourists, improvements are being made in multilingual support and cultural experience programs. The scenic landscapes of the Sea of Japan and hot spring culture are highly valued by overseas visitors.

Sustainable Hot Spring Resort Development

Efforts to balance environmental protection with tourism have begun, aiming for sustainable hot spring resort operations. Activities are underway to pass the abundant natural environment to future generations.

Conclusion: Fully Experience San’in’s Appeal at Kaike Onsen

Kaike Onsen, the San’in region’s largest seaside hot spring resort in Yonago City, Tottori Prefecture, combines abundant hot spring water and the benefits of chloride mineral water, beautiful coastlines and views of Daisen, fresh seafood and mountain delicacies, and diverse accommodations.

Close to Yonago city center with excellent access, the area is abundant with charming attractions nearby, including Daisen, Sakaiminato, and the Adachi Museum of Art. You can enjoy it in various styles, from day bathing to overnight stays to extended visits.

With seasonal changes in nature, seasonal ingredients, and year-round events, there are always new discoveries whenever you visit Kaike Onsen. When visiting the San’in region, why not spend time refreshing both body and mind at this seaside hot spring resort?

The “salt water” welling from the seafloor is sure to make your trip special.