Discover Shirahama Onsen's Hot Springs & Seascapes! (3 ways to get great prices)

 Shirahama Onsen Hot Springs

Monument commemorating the “Seven Hot Springs of Yuzaki” (photo courtesy: Nanki Shirahama Tourism Bureau)

Shirahama Onsen hot springs (from hereon: Shirahama Onsen) dates back to as early as the Asuka period (592-710). Since ancient times, Shirahama’s hot springs have attracted countless visitors, including Emperors Saimei, Jito and  Monmu -- who ruled during the seventh century -- and many other members of the Imperial court. 
With a history of over 1350 years, Shirahama is one of Japan’s “Three Ancient Springs” alongside Dogo Onsen of Ehime Prefecture, and Arima Onsen in Hyogo Prefecture. All three hot springs are located in western Japan. Soak yourself in the same Shirahama Onsen, cherished through the ages by historical figures. Be sure to experience these special hot springs firsthand! 

A full view of the sea! Hot springs in Nanki Shirahama with breathtaking views

We visited a total of six hot spring sites for this article ― three communal baths and three foot baths. For serious hot spring lovers who want to visit all of the hot springs, we suggest cycling around the Nanki-Shirahama area. Rent a bike at the tourist information center, “City General Information Centre Shirasuna”, which is about a minute’s walk from the “Shirarahama” bus stop. 

Bicycles for rent (photo courtesy: Nanki Shirahama Tourism Bureau）

Two types of bicycles are available for rent. An e-bike is 1,000 yen, and a conventional bicycle is 500 yen. Shirahama is a hilly town, so we suggest renting an electrically assisted one. As a matter of fact, the old-school bike isn’t a bad idea either. It’s a great way to get around if you prefer breaking a bit of a sweat before taking a relaxing bath. To rent a bicycle, you’ll need to present a piece of ID and pay a deposit. For more details, check the Nanki Shirahama official website.
Once you’ve rented a bike, it’s time to go hot spring-hopping!

Get up close with the sea at Saki-no-yu

The communal baths we visit in this trip are referred to in Japanese as “soto-yu” or “outside-bath”. This is not an open-air bath, but rather one that is not connected to an accommodation facility. “Soto-yu meguri”, or the practice of hopping communal bathhouses, is a popular way to spend time at Japanese hot spring resorts. Although many accomodation facilities now have their baths open to the public for a fee, these are often not included in “soto-yu meguri” courses.
 
This time, we focused on three of Nanki-Shirahama’s communal bathhouses that you can casually drop into. From the many choices available, we’ve picked three hot spring baths with exceptional views for you to enjoy. Thus begins our trip of hot spring-hopping!

Saki-no-yu

Our first stop was Saki-no-yu hot spring, whose proximity to the shoreline gives you the illusion of being one with the ocean. It’s about an eight-minute ride from the tourist information center “Shirasuna”.
Today, Saki-no-yu hot spring is the only one of the seven hot springs that were once collectively known as the Yuzaki-nanayu (湯崎七湯) during the Meiji period (1868-1912)  Yuzaki-nanayu’s reputation attracted many tourists in the Meiji period, and later became today’s Shirahama Onsen. Sakino-yu hot springs is a sodium-chloride hot spring (weak alkaline, hypertonic, hyperthermal bath). Admission costs 500 yen. It’s best to check the official website before visiting, as the bath is closed several times a month for maintenance. For those using public transport, the closest bus stop is Yuzaki.  

The view from the parking lot ― Can you tell where the hot spring is?

The hot spring is so close to the ocean, that when viewed from the parking lot it almost blends right in with the seascape. What could the view be like from a hot spring so close to the sea? We couldn’t wait to find out. 
 

Splashing waves at Saki-no-yu (photo courtesy: Nanki Shirahama Tourism Bureau)

The bath hot spring commands a panoramic view of the ocean. Visitors can sit back in a hot spring so close to the ocean, that the waves occasionally splash in their faces. It is a true feeling of luxury to soak in the hot spring with a sweeping view of the ocean. 

Saki-no-yu from above （photo courtesy: Nanki Shirahama Tourism Bureau）
The wind invites the waves, and the waves crash into the shoreline; during your bathing experience at Saki-no-yu, you will feel the full force of nature up close. Such an impactful combination of sea and hot spring is rare even in all of Japan, and is a greatly recommendable place to experience firsthand.

Muro-no-yu -- two spring sources in one place

Muro-no-yu has a charming retro vibe (photo courtesy: Nanki Shirahama Tourism Bureau)

About a 3-minute ride from Saki-no-yu brought us to Muro-no-yu. This hot spring facility is situated between two roads, making it appear like an island on land. Muro-no-yu is one of Shirahama Onsen’s best known “soto-yu”, or communal bathhouses, alongside the previously mentioned Saki-no-yu. 
Muro-no-yu’s strongest appeal is by far the two distinct hot spring sources that can be experienced in the one facility. The bath house is closed on Tuesdays, and admission costs 400 yen. For more details such as operating hours and holidays, check the official website
 

The reception area is full of old-day charm (photo courtesy: Nanki Shirahama Tourism Bureau)

The baths are is drawn from two separate hot spring sources (photo courtesy: Nanki Shirahama Tourism Bureau)

We first tried the clear-water bath named Miyuki-gensen, which is drawn from a sodium-chloride hot spring (weak alkaline hypertonic, hyperthermal hotspring). The bath has a weak ocean scent, a soft sulphuric scent, and a temperature slightly higher than others.

Next, we dipped into the bath called Mabuyu-gensen, whose sulphuric sodium-chloride hot spring (hypertonic, medium thermal hot spring) carried a light earth color. I felt that its temperature was slightly higher than the previous Miyuki-gensen. This spring had a faint sulphuric scent that tickled the nose, and as we looked closely at the surface, we noticed dark mineral deposits. These deposits form when the high-temperature spring water contacts the cooler air, and are referred to as "yunohana", or "hot water flowers" in Japanese. They are a common phenomenon in natural hot springs.

After a piping hot bath at Muro-no-yu, we followed the road along the coastline. Leisurely pushing your bike down this road as your body cools from the refreshing sea breeze, is a beautiful moment of tranquility.

Shirara-yu -- taking in the view of Shirara-hama

Shirara-yu exterior （photo courtesy: Nanki Shirahama Tourism Bureau）

Our last stop was Shirara-yu, situated on Shirara-hama beach. This beach is about a 6-minute ride from Muro-no-yu, and is packed with beachgoers during the summer. The facility is closed every Thursday, and admission costs 420 yen. Check the official website for more details on operating hours and holidays. 
 

Staircase leading to the hot spring bath on the second floor（photo courtesy：Nanki Shirahama Tourism Bureau）

The ground floor has a rest area for bathers to sit back and relax. The wood furnishings used for both the building’s interior and exterior create a warm, cozy space.
The hot spring bath is on the second floor. The bathing area has a great view of Shirara-hama beach below.  

This hot spring has a milky look, and is registered as a sodium-chloride hot spring (neutral hypertonic hyperthermal bath). Try scooping some of its warmth into your hands, and you will see the white "yunohana" residue floating on the surface. We tried tasting the water on our skin and it had a strong salty taste ― appropriately for a seaside hot spring. 

View of Shirara-hama beach from rest area（photo courtesy : Nanki Shirahama Tourism Bureau）

The communal bath house Shirara-yu stands right in front of Shirara-hama beach. After a soothing bath, try visiting the sandy white beach. As your body still carries the heat of the hot springs, take to the shore for a stroll in the soft sea breeze. You are sure to be healed by the wonderous vistas of Shirara-hama.

Free foot bathing spots 

Next, let’s take a look at ashiyu, or foot baths, which are a fuss-free way of enjoying Japanese hot springs. Soaking your feet is said to promote relaxation, improve blood circulation, and remove toxins from the body. It’s a great way to ease your tired feet while you’re out and about sightseeing and cycling.

SHIRAHAMA KEY TERRACE HOTEL SEAMORE: A footbath with an expansive view of the ocean 

The edge of the bath disappears into the ocean

Our first recommended spot is the “infinity foot bath” at SHIRAHAMA KEY TERRACE HOTEL SEAMORE. This hotel also has an open cafe space, and the foot bath can be used by non-hotel guests as well.
 
We discovered a breathtaking seascape on the other side of the door; what we saw was a harmony between the calming indigo tilework, and sparkling sea before us. The edge of the foot bath appeared to merge with the ocean, and it was hard to tell where one ended and the other began. We had a sweeping view of the Pacific Ocean, with the slightly rounded horizon in the distance. Towels can be borrowed for free, making this foot bath an ideal place to casually drop in anytime.

Sandanbeki foot bath: find a sunset in the midwinter cold

Foot bath at Sandanbeki（photo courtesy ：Nanki Shirahama Tourism Bureau）

One of Nanki-Shirahama’s most scenic locations is Sandanbeki, which translates as “three tiered wall.” On one end of this landmark is Sandanbeki ashiyu, a free foot bath that overlooks the Pacific Ocean, and its neighboring 50-meter tall Sandanbeki cliffs.
The best time to visit is just before sunset, when the ocean turns red. However, since this foot bath closes at 4:30PM, the only time you can see the sunset from here is during the winter when the sky darkens early. With the imposing presence of the Sandanbeki cliffs to the side, and grandeur of the ocean in front, this foot bath provides you a relaxing space to take in the views.

Mifune foot bath — enjoy Engetsuto Island from this great viewpoint

Engetsuto island seen from Mifune （photo courtesy : Nanki Shirahama Tourism Bureau）

One landscape that has come to symbolize the Nanki Shirahama area is the Island Engetsuto. "Engetsu", meaning "full-moon", is the nickname given to this rocky island in reference to the round gaping hole in its center. It can be seen standing off the coast as if to float on the ocean's surface, and the way the sun peeps through the hole at sunset, is a prized vista of the area. Engetsuto Island ranks as one of Japan’s best 100 sunset locations, and many tourists come here to witness a wondrous vista of mother nature. 

Engetsuto island can be seen in the distance from Mifune footbath. From there, you can watch as the island turns red, and the sun sinks into the horizon . Nearby, there is a spot where visitors can observe the sun pass by the hole, so it might be a good idea to enjoy the sunset first, then visit the foot bath after the sun goes down. This way, you can warm yourself up from the chilly ocean breeze. 

Three ways to get around Shirahama Onsen at a reasonable price- which one best fits you?

So far, we have introduced three bathhouses and three foot baths.Visiting them one at a time is great no matter what, but you would take any chance to do it at a reasonable price, wouldn’t you? If your answer is yes, this last section is for you; we will show you three ways to enjoy your hot-spring-hopping at a great price, along with a chart comparing prices and information.

1. Nanki Shirahama soto-yu meguri (communal bath hopping)

Brochure with extensive list of communal bathhouses in Shirahama

The first of the bunch is: “Nanki Shirahama Soto-yu Meguri”. This brochure is distributed for free, and is a great companion for your hot spring-hopping adventure. Alongside the three bathhouses that we have introduced in this article, a total of six hot springs including “Shirasuna”, “Matsu-no-yu”, and “Ami-no-yu” are eligible for the discounts included in the brochure. A 50 yen discount coupon for each of these hot springs is attached to the brochure, allowing you to save a maximum of 250 yen.

Muro-no-yu towel - a reward for those who visit all bathhouses (Photo courtesy: Nanki Shirahama Tourism Bureau)

The biggest feature of the brochure is that it rewards you with a gift at the end of your Shirahama Onsen tour. Collect stamps from each venue to receive a towel memento at your last stop. Alternatively, you can collect the towel from the tourism division of Shirahama’s town office, or have them send it to you by mail. Take note that the six baths close on different days, so you’ll need check their schedules in advance. 
The brochures are placed at various locations, including tourist centers, Shirahama’s town office and tourism association, and the office of the Shirahama Onsen Ryokan Cooperative Association. 

2. Nanki Shirahama town walk map (with coupons)

Nanki Shirahama town walk map comes with coupons (photo courtesy: Nanki Shirahama Tourism Bureau）

The Nanki Shirahama walking map comes with four coupons (each valued at 200 yen) that can be used at both communal baths and hotel baths. The map can be bought for 800 yen, and any one of the four coupons can give you admission even to places like Saki-no-yu that normally cost 500 yen.

The coupons can be used at 26 locations, including shops, eateries and other tourist attractions. Don’t worry if you’ve come to Shirahama without a plan! You can begin by picking from the map’s eligible venues.
The Nanki Shirahama walking map can be found at tourist information centers. You can also check where the coupons are accepted on the official website.

3. "Nanki Shirahama Onsen Yumeguri" Charm

Nanki Shirahama onsen tour charm

If you don’t mind spending a little more, here’s another way to elevate your hot spring-hopping experience. Buy the “onsen meguri fuda” -- hot spring tour charm -- for 1,800 yen and enjoy bathing to your heart’s delight. This little piece of wood comes with five stickers that give you access to various baths. They can be used in a variety of hot springs, such as a hotel bath whose regular admission costs 1,100 yen, that you can enter with just two stickers from your set.
 
Even if you can’t use up the stickers in a single trip, there’s no need to worry (details are available here)! The stickers are valid for 6 months from their purchase, so you can enjoy your hot spring getaway at your own pace, and possibly use the stickers to plan a return trip! The charm is available at a convenience store nearby Shirahama Onsen, also making it very easy to get your hands on.

Which option best suits you?

■Places to stay in Shirahama Onsen Hot Springs

While you’re there, we suggest staying inside the Shirahama Onsen area to enjoy bathing to the fullest. Here’s our pick of places to stay overnight, within easy access of the hot springs spots we have introduced.

■Recommended attractions around Shirahama Onsen

Here’s a list of fun attractions worth visiting during your Shirahama Onsen stay.

Visit Shirahama Onsen Hot Springs- an ancient spring with breathtaking vistas, all at a reasonable price

We hope this article has inspired you to visit Shirahama Onsen, and all of its natural beauty.
Through our trip of Shirahama Onsen, we were able to gain the full experience of Nanki Shirahama’s natural surroundings. All of the bathhouses and foot baths were intricately crafted to accentuate their natural beauty, and Shirahama Onsen also provides ways to enjoy them at a great price. Winter is a great time to visit Shirahama, and we hope you’ll have the opportunity to see that firsthand!