Dogo Onsen and More! 7 Hot Spring Resorts and Best Hotels in Shikoku

Famous Hot Spring resorts in Shikoku

Shikoku is a region in Japan renowned for its rich natural beauty. It features numerous hot spring resorts such as the famous Dogo Onsen and Konpira Onsen, where visitors can unwind while taking in breathtaking views of mountains, rivers, and the ocean.

Many of these onsen have a long history, steeped in legends and folklore that date back to ancient times.

We will introduce some of the most famous hot springs in Shikoku along with recommended hotels and ryokan inns.

Hot Springs in the Shikoku Region

1. Dogo Onsen in Ehime
2. Nibukawa Onsen in Ehime
3. Konpira Onsen in Kagawa
4. Shodoshima Onsen in Kagawa
5. Oboke-Iya Onsen in Tokushima
6. Ashizuri Onsen in Kochi
7. Sansuien Onsen in Kochi

Hot Spring Hotels and Inns in Shikoku
Dogo Onsen Funaya
Nibukawa Onsen Mikado
Konpira Machiya
Shodoshima International Hotel
Hotel Iya Onsen
The Mana Village
Sansuien

1. Dogo Onsen in Ehime

Picture courtesy of photo AC

Dogo Onsen is a renowned hot spring resort located in Ehime Prefecture, Shikoku.

It is one of Japan's Three Oldest Hot Springs, with a history spanning approximately 3,000 years. The clear waters of this alkaline simple hot spring are known for being gentle on the skin.

The main building, or honkan, has been designated as a National Important Cultural Property, recognized as Japan's first public bath.

The wooden architecture is believed to have inspired the iconic bathhouse in the famous film "Spirited Away," directed by Hayao Miyazaki. Visitors are drawn to its romantic Taisho Period atmosphere.

The expansive building comprises three floors and features a roof area (shinrokaku), as well as a banquet hall and exhibit room, providing a relaxing space for guests to enjoy.

Official website: Dogo Onsen

Nibukawa Onsen in Ehime

Nibukawa Valley. Photo by Pixta

Nibukawa Onsen is a tranquil hot spring area offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. It features water from an alkaline simple hot spring.

Known for its beauty-enhancing properties (bijin no yu), the water is gentle on the skin and highly moisturizing.

This hot spring resort, nestled in the natural beauty of Shikoku, allows you to refresh both body and soul while experiencing the changing seasons.

Nibukawa Onsen is located near the center of Imabari City, providing convenient access to Shimanami Kaido, which is famous for its cycling route.

In addition to the scenic Nibukawa Valley and nearby campgrounds, the area offers a variety of nature walking courses, making it an ideal place to unwind and rejuvenate.

Official website: Nibukawa Onsen

3. Konpira Onsen in Kagawa

Picture courtesy of photo AC

The Konpira Onsen District is a renowned hot spring area where visitors often stop after making a pilgrimage to Kotohiragu Shrine.

The water, sourced from three different hot springs, is colorless and transparent with a smooth feel against the skin.

Rich in salt, the waters provide excellent heat retention, warming the body from the inside out.

Kotohira Town, located within this hot spring district, is also renowned as the birthplace of the udon shop, making it a delightful stop for noodle enthusiasts wanting to sample local offerings.

We also recommend exploring the local history and culture at attractions such as the History and Folklore Museum, the Kinryo Sake Museum-History Hall, and the Maritime Museum.

Official website: Konpira Onsen District

Shodoshima Onsen in Kagawa

Picture courtesy of photo AC

At Shodoshima Onsen, located on Shodoshima Island in the Seto Inland Sea, visitors can enjoy stunning scenery and a mild climate.

Shodoshima is a highly popular travel destination, offering a blend of hot springs and sightseeing opportunities. The area boasts numerous attractions, including the romantic Angel Road and the picturesque Shodoshima Olive Park Roadside Station.

At Shodoshima Onsen, several types of hot springs are available, featuring the unique Olive Hot Springs that are distinctive to this olive-growing region.

The mineral-rich seawater contributes to the gentleness of the hot spring on the skin, making it highly moisturizing.

We highly recommend this hot spring area for its beautiful views of the olive groves and the tranquil ocean.

5. Oboke-Iya Onsen in Tokushima

Picture courtesy of photo AC

The Oboke-Iya Onsen District is a hot spring area located in one of Japan's Three Most Secluded Regions, known as Iya.

Visitors can experience the breathtaking beauty of the Iya Valley from the open-air bath (rotemburo), making it a perfect destination for enjoying both stunning views and relaxing hot springs.

This alkaline simple hot spring is renowned for its skin-beautifying properties, allowing bathers to enjoy the water without needing to apply face lotion afterward.

In addition to the hot springs, the area is rich in natural beauty, featuring the Oboke and Koboke Gorges and the Iya Kazurabashi Suspension Bridge, making it an ideal location for sightseeing.

Visitors can also partake in various activities, including river rafting, canoeing, and even a soba noodle-making workshop.

Official website: Oboke-Iya Onsen District

Ashizuri Onsen in Kochi

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Ashizuri Onsen is a hot spring located at Cape Ashizuri, the southernmost point of Shikoku.

This hot spring resort has a rich history, with legends claiming that around 1,200 years ago, the famous monk Kobo Daishi rejuvenated himself in its waters, which flow from the local river.

The onsen offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, providing an attractive setting where you can relax and connect with the beauty of nature.

The surrounding area boasts a variety of activities to enhance your experience, including sightseeing at Cape Ashizuri and opportunities for whale watching.

Official website: Ashizuri Onsen (Japanese)

Sansuien Onsen in Kochi

Picture courtesy of Sansuien Onsen

Sansuien Onsen is a well-established natural hot spring facility situated on the historic site of the Tosa feudal lord's residence.

Located in the heart of Kochi City, it is within walking distance of popular attractions such as Kochi Castle and Hirome Market, making it a convenient base for sightseeing.

This sodium chloride hot spring is known for its ability to thoroughly warm the body.

Sansuien Onsen features an open-air bath and sauna, allowing visitors to relax and unwind while enjoying stunning views of the clear waters of the Kagamigawa River and the renowned Mt. Hitsuzan.

Official website: Sansuien (Japanese)

Hot Spring Hotels and Inns in Shikoku

Next, we introduce our recommended accommodation facilities for enjoying the above mentioned hot springs.

Dogo Onsen Funaya

Picture courtesy of booking.com

Dogo Onsen Funaya is an inn that has been welcoming guests since the Edo Period (1603-1868), boasting a proud history of over 390 years.

Guests can choose from traditional tatami mat rooms with futon beds, Western-style rooms with beds, or a combination of both styles for a unique experience.

The restaurant at Dogo Onsen Funaya emphasizes local food production and consumption, featuring carefully selected local ingredients to create extravagant and delicious dishes.

The inn is also home to a beautifully maintained Japanese garden, allowing visitors to experience the changing seasons up close.

The large public bath includes an open-air bath and a sauna, creating a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere. Day trip visitors are also welcome to enjoy this facility.

Dogo Onsen Funaya
Access: About three minutes on foot from Dogo Onsen Station.
Location: Ehime, Matsuyama, Dogo Yunomachi 1-33
Check-in / Check-out: 15:00 / 10:00 (times can differ depending on the stay plan).

Nibukawa Onsen Mikado

Picture courtesy of Rakuten Travel

Nibukawa Onsen Mikado is a long-established ryokan nestled in abundant natural surroundings, offering guests a quiet and tranquil environment for relaxation.

The alkaline simple hot spring waters are known for their beauty-enhancing properties, and the cuisine, featuring local ingredients, is highly regarded.

One of the highlights is the open-air bath, where guests can enjoy the soothing sounds of the river.

In the vicinity, the stunning Nibukawa Valley and various walking courses invite visitors to immerse themselves in nature, providing ample opportunities for relaxation and exploration.

Nibukawa Onsen Mikado
Access: About 20 minutes by taxi from Imabari Station (JR Yosan Line).
Location: Ehime, Imabari, Tamagawacho, Nibukawa Kanoe 773-1
Check-in / Check-out: 16:00 / 10:00 (times can differ depending on the stay plan).

Konpira Machiya Usu

Picture courtesy of booking.com

Konpira Machiya Usu is a fully renovated private lodging facility housed in a 55-year-old traditional kominka home, perfect for guests seeking a serene and quiet retreat.

The spacious rooms can accommodate up to ten guests, offering ample space for groups or families. The semi open-air bath provides views of a charming inner garden, allowing visitors to unwind amidst the soothing fragrance of cypress wood.

At Konpira Machiya, guests are invited to stay as if they were living in the home. The facility is equipped with various amenities, including a washing machine and kitchen, ensuring a convenient and comfortable stay. Additionally, a bicycle rental service is available for those looking to explore the area.

Konpira Machiya Usu
Access: About one minute on foot from JR Kotohira Station as well as from Kotoden Kotohira Station.
Location: Kagawa, Nakatadogun, Kotohiracho, Enoi 876-9
Check-in / Check-out: 15:00 / 10:00

Shodoshima International Hotel

Picture courtesy of Rakuten Travel

Shodoshima International Hotel is situated in a renowned olive-growing area, with all guest rooms offering stunning ocean views.

The hotel overlooks the famous sightseeing spot, Angel Road, making it a popular choice for guests who appreciate beautiful scenery.

Accommodations include rooms with open-air baths, as well as designer rooms that blend Asian and Japanese styles, allowing guests to select a room that matches their personal taste.

Additionally, during the summer months, guests can enjoy the garden pool, providing a refreshing way to relax.

Shodoshima International Hotel
Access: About 5-10 minutes by free shuttle bus (by reservation) from Tonosho Port.
Location: Kagawa, Shodogun, Tonoshocho, Ko 24-67
Check-in / Check-out: 15:00 / 10:00

Hotel Iya Onsen

Picture courtesy of Booking.com

Hotel Iya Onsen is a ryokan nestled deep in the Iya Valley, one of Shikoku's most secluded regions.

The ryokan boasts a unique open-air bath that features water sourced directly from the hot spring, which is very popular among guests. Access to the bath involves a five-minute cable car ride that descends into the heart of the Iya Valley.

Here, you can unwind in the soothing waters of the hot spring while taking in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Iya Valley. Day trip visitors are also welcome to enjoy the hot spring experience.

Hotel Iya Onsen
Access: About 50 minutes by car from Ikawa-Ikeda IC (Interchange) on the Tokushima Expressway, 30 minutes by free shuttle bus (by reservation) from JR Oboke Station.
Location: Tokushima, Miyoshi, Ikedamachi, Matsuo Matsumoto 367-28
Check-in / Check-out: 15:00 / 11:00 (times can differ depending on the stay plan).

The Mana Village

Picture courtesy of Booking.com

The Mana Village, situated on Cape Ashizuri, is one of Shikoku's premier resort hotels.

Both the restaurant and the open-air bath provide stunning views, allowing visitors to relax in the hot spring while gazing out at the Pacific Ocean.

Hotel guests can take advantage of a complimentary starry night tour led by a knowledgeable guide. Daytrippers are also welcome to enjoy the hot springs during their visit.

The Mana Village
Access: About 90 minutes by bus from Nakamura Station (Tosa Kuroshio Sukumo Line).
Location: Kochi, Tosashimizu, Ashizurimisaki 783
Check-in / Check-out: 15:00 / 10:00

Sansuien

Picture courtesy of Rakuten Travel

Sansuien is a hotel located in Kochi City, featuring a daimyo (feudal lord) garden that offers a glimpse into the region's historic past.

The restaurant serves a colorful and exquisite menu that emphasizes locally sourced ingredients from the Tosa area (the original name for Kochi Prefecture).

The hot spring facilities include a sauna and a cold bath (mizuburo), providing an ideal way for visitors to unwind and relieve travel fatigue. Day trip visitors can also enjoy the hot springs during their stay.

Sansuien
Access: About three minutes on foot from the Kencho-mae stop (Tosaden Streetcar),
15 minutes by car from Kochi IC on the Kochi Expressway.
Location: Kochi, Kochi, Takajocho 1-3-35
Check-in / Check-out: 15:00 / 10:00 (times can differ depending on the stay plan).

Enjoy Hot Springs in Shikoku

Shikoku is rich in attractions for visitors, including Dogo Onsen, which inspired the iconic movie "Spirited Away," and Shodoshima Onsen, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea.

Consider spending your next holiday in Shikoku, where you can relax and immerse yourself in the stunning natural scenery that surrounds you.

Main image courtesy of booking.com
Written by Cakutama editorial team