Hinokami Onsen is a hot spring resort in Okuizumo Town, Shimane Prefecture. Surrounded by the rich natural scenery of the Chugoku Mountains, it lies at the foot of Mount Funtsu, a mountain closely associated with the mythology of ancient Japan.
The area is deeply connected with the legendary story of Yamata-no-Orochi, the eight-headed serpent that appears in the Kojiki, Japan’s oldest surviving historical chronicle. With its quiet mountain setting and mysterious atmosphere, Hinokami Onsen is an ideal place to slow down, relax, and experience the legends and natural beauty of Okuizumo.
Hinokami Onsen is also known as one of Japan’s Three Famous Hot Springs for Beautiful Skin, alongside Kitsuregawa Onsen in Tochigi Prefecture and Ureshino Onsen in Saga Prefecture. It has become especially popular with visitors seeking a relaxing bathing experience and is sometimes called a “Beauty Hot Spring” because of the smooth sensation of the skin after bathing.
One of the greatest attractions of Hinokami Onsen is the opportunity to experience the world of Izumo mythology while surrounded by mountain nature.
Mount Funtsu, rising behind the hot spring area, is associated with the legend of the defeat of Yamata-no-Orochi recorded in the Kojiki.
According to the myth, Susanoo-no-Mikoto defeated the enormous serpent Yamata-no-Orochi. After cutting off its tails, he discovered the Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, the sacred sword that became one of Japan’s Three Imperial Regalia.
Relaxing in a hot spring while surrounded by landscapes connected with such an ancient legend offers a uniquely Okuizumo experience.
The natural scenery around Mount Funtsu changes dramatically with the seasons. Fresh green foliage arrives in spring, deep green forests characterize summer, brilliant autumn colors cover the mountains in fall, and snow creates a quiet winter landscape.
From an open-air bath or indoor bathing area, visitors can enjoy the surrounding scenery while allowing the warmth of the hot spring to soothe both body and mind.
One of the most distinctive features of Hinokami Onsen is its highly alkaline water, with a pH of 9.9. It is classified as an alkaline simple hot spring and is known for its gentle effect on the skin.
When entering the bath, many visitors notice a distinctive silky or slightly slippery sensation. This characteristic texture is one reason the spring has earned its reputation as a hot spring associated with beautiful skin.
After bathing, the skin can feel exceptionally smooth and soft, making Hinokami Onsen a favorite among repeat visitors who enjoy its distinctive bathing experience.
The spring is classified as an alkaline simple hot spring. Because it is considered relatively gentle, it is suitable for a wide range of visitors, from children to older adults.
Simple hot springs are often associated with relaxation and are characterized by relatively low physical stimulation. Taking time to soak in the warm water allows visitors to warm themselves thoroughly while enjoying a peaceful break from everyday life.
Hinokami Onsen has three natural spring sources, producing approximately 800 liters of hot spring water per minute. The source temperature is around 26°C, and the water is heated to a comfortable bathing temperature before use.
The water also contains metasilicic acid, a component often associated with the moisturizing qualities of hot spring water. This is another feature that contributes to the spring’s reputation as a destination for a relaxing beauty-oriented bathing experience.
Hinokami Onsen is enjoyed not only for its smooth, silky water but also as a traditional bathing destination associated with relief from everyday physical fatigue.
Traditional descriptions of the spring’s bathing benefits include support for neuralgia, muscle pain, joint pain, frozen shoulder, movement disorders, stiff joints, bruises, sprains, chronic digestive conditions, sensitivity to cold, hemorrhoidal discomfort, recovery after illness, fatigue, and general health maintenance.
For travelers who feel tired or stressed after sightseeing, the combination of warm spring water and the peaceful mountain environment provides an opportunity to relax and recharge.
Okuizumo Town is blessed with forests, clear water, clean mountain air, and beautiful landscapes. Hinokami Onsen is surrounded by this natural environment, making the scenery an important part of the experience.
In spring, the surrounding mountains are covered in fresh young leaves. The crisp mountain air and vibrant greenery create a refreshing atmosphere, and bathing while looking out over the new foliage is particularly enjoyable.
Summer in the mountain region can be pleasantly cool compared with urban areas. The sound of flowing streams and the gentle mountain breeze create a relaxing atmosphere for spending time outdoors.
In autumn, the mountains around Mount Funtsu are transformed by vibrant red and yellow foliage. Soaking in the hot spring while looking across the colorful mountains is one of the most memorable seasonal experiences at Hinokami Onsen.
Winter brings snow-covered scenery and a peaceful atmosphere to the hot spring area. On suitable days, visitors can enjoy the traditional pleasure of yukimi-buro, or bathing while viewing the snow.
A visit to Hinokami Onsen is also an opportunity to enjoy the distinctive food culture of Okuizumo. One of the region’s specialties is handmade soba prepared with locally grown buckwheat.
Okuizumo is known as an important soba-producing area in the Chugoku region. Its cool climate and clean water provide favorable conditions for growing buckwheat with a rich aroma and distinctive flavor.
At Hinokamiso, the local hot spring inn, the popular specialty is warigo soba made with locally produced buckwheat flour. Warigo soba is a traditional style unique to the Izumo region, served in several round, stacked containers.
Guests add small amounts of dipping sauce and condiments as they eat, allowing them to fully appreciate the natural aroma and flavor of the soba.
In recent years, tent saunas have also been introduced as a new way to enjoy the natural surroundings. The saunas are available by reservation, allowing guests to experience the refreshing sensation of warming up in a sauna before relaxing outdoors in the clean mountain air.
Combining a sauna session with an onsen bath offers another way to enjoy the peaceful natural environment of Okuizumo and create a deeply relaxing break from everyday routines.
Hinokami Onsen also offers cosmetics called “kamiomizu”, made using the local hot spring water.
Because the spring is known for its smooth, moisturizing qualities, these products are popular as souvenirs. They offer visitors a way to take home a small reminder of their Hinokami Onsen experience.
The Hinokami Onsen area is surrounded by mountains and has a quiet, intimate atmosphere rather than the large-scale feel of a major resort destination. This peaceful setting is one of its greatest attractions.
Hinokamiso is a traditional accommodation known for dishes made with local ingredients and its handmade soba. Staying here allows guests to combine an onsen experience with the flavors of Okuizumo.
Minshuku Tanabe is a traditional Japanese guesthouse offering a warm, homelike atmosphere. Its friendly hospitality and simple surroundings provide a relaxed way to experience life in the mountain community.
From Izumo-Yokota Station on the JR Kisuki Line, visitors can take an Okuizumo Kotsu bus. The journey takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes.
By car, Hinokami Onsen is approximately 80 minutes from either the Shobara Interchange or Tojo Interchange on the Chugoku Expressway.
The drive takes you through the scenic mountains of Okuizumo, allowing you to enjoy the area’s peaceful rural landscapes along the way.
Hinokami Onsen is a renowned hot spring at the foot of Mount Funtsu, a mountain deeply connected with the mythology of Izumo. Its pH 9.9 alkaline simple hot spring is known for its smooth, silky sensation and has earned the area a reputation as one of Japan’s Three Famous Hot Springs for Beautiful Skin.
Yet the appeal of Hinokami Onsen extends far beyond its water. Visitors can enjoy beautiful seasonal scenery, traditional Okuizumo cuisine, handmade Izumo-style soba, peaceful mountain accommodations, and landscapes associated with the ancient Yamata-no-Orochi legend.
For travelers seeking a place to escape the pace of everyday life and immerse themselves in Japanese mythology, mountain nature, traditional food, and the relaxing culture of hot springs, Hinokami Onsen offers a memorable experience in the heart of Okuizumo.