Misasa Onsen: Mysterious Hot Spring Boasting World-Class Radon Content

Misasa Onsen in Misasa Town, Tohaku District, Tottori Prefecture is a hot spring resort bubbling beside the Mitoku River. The spring water richly containing radon (a radioactive element) boasts world-class radon content, comparable to European radioactive spring treatment sites.

River Bank Bath: Free Open-Air Bath by the River

The biggest specialty of Misasa Onsen is the "river bank bath." This open-air bath utilizing hot spring water naturally gushing from the Mitoku River bank is a free bathing spot requiring swimwear in a mixed-bathing format (some hours designated for women only). Soaking in hot springs beside a natural river is a special experience with a simple, rustic appeal different from luxurious ryokan facilities.

Radon Effects and Therapeutic Tourism

Misasa Onsen's radon spring is said to stimulate the body by emitting alpha rays, improving immunity and activating metabolism. This phenomenon called the "hormesis effect" is medically researched, and many visitors come for therapy for rheumatism, neuralgia, and chronic conditions.

Strolling Misasa Hot Spring Town

The hot spring town with ryokan inns and souvenir shops along the Mitoku River has a charming old-fashioned atmosphere. Foot baths are found throughout, allowing enjoyment of hot springs while strolling.

Access

About 25 minutes by Nihon Kotsu bus from JR Kurayoshi Station. About 1 hour by car from Tottori City.