History and Overview of “Nanki Shirahama Onsen”
“Nanki Shirahama Onsen” is famous as one of Japan’s three major hot springs, and it has a very ancient history. Many emperors, including Emperor Saimei and Emperor Jitō, have visited it. The name of this hot spring comes from “Shirarahama,” a beautiful white sandy beach, and its development as a hot spring area began in 1919.
This hot spring area is a non-volcanic hot spring, and despite being in a region without volcanoes, high-temperature hot springs gush forth. This is believed to be due to high-temperature groundwater seeping from a plate that has subducted from the Philippine Sea.
There are various types of spring quality, each expected to have different benefits. For example, sodium chloride springs are effective in warming the body, while alkaline simple sulfur springs are good for the skin.
Major Hot Spring Spots
“Saki no Yu”
“Saki no Yu” is famous for its open-air bath located at the water’s edge. Depending on the wave conditions, seawater can flow into the hot spring. This hot spring has a sulfur scent and a high salt content, which warms the body to the core in a short time.
“Yanagiya”
The long-established inn “Yanagiya,” founded 400 years ago, offers 100% free-flowing hot spring water from a source that has continued since the Manyo era. The landlady, who holds a qualification as a hot spring sommelier, also teaches the correct way to bathe.
“Ebino Onsen”
“Ebino Onsen” offers a view of the Hiki River from its thirteen-sided bath, which is fed by free-flowing hot spring water. The high pH value of the water gives it a silky texture, and it can also be drunk.
“Tsubaki Onsen Tsubaki Hana no Yu”
“Tsubaki Onsen” is known as a famous hot spring with high beauty benefits. Alternating baths are particularly popular for their metabolism-boosting effects.
“Onsen Minshuku Bokai”
This family-run, homey inn offers “Kanro no Yu,” which is good for the skin. This water can also be drunk and is known for its mellow taste.
Surrounding Tourist Spots and Activities
“Shirarahama Beach”
“Shirarahama” is characterized by its white sandy beach and blue sea, and it is particularly crowded with tourists during the summer swimming season. The crystal-clear sea and pure white sandy beach are well worth a visit.
“Engetsu Island”
“Engetsu Island” with its natural arch is famous as a sunset viewing spot. Many tourists visit to photograph this beautiful scenery.
“Nanki-Shirahama Adventure World”
“Nanki-Shirahama Adventure World” is a theme park popular for its pandas and other animals. It offers a wide range of attractions that families can enjoy.
Other Tourist Attractions
“Nanki Shirahama” has many other attractive tourist spots. These include “Senjojiki,” “Sandanbeki,” and “Shirahama Energy Land,” where you can also enjoy fresh local seafood and delicious gourmet food.
Access
Train
The nearest station is “Shirahama Station” on the JR Kisei Main Line (Kinokuni Line). Using a limited express train makes it convenient to access from Osaka or Kyoto.
Bus
Highway buses operate from Osaka and Kyoto. There are also overnight buses available from Tokyo.
Car
Use the Hanwa Expressway and Kisei Expressway and exit at the “Nanki Shirahama IC.” Many facilities are equipped with parking lots.
Airplane
“Nanki Shirahama Airport” has flights to and from Tokyo Haneda Airport, making access by airplane convenient.
Official Website: https://www.shirahama-ryokan.jp/