
A Handy Guide to Tamatsukuri Onsen: The Bath of the Gods
Located in Shimane Prefecture, halfway between the capital city of Matsue and the sacred town of Izumo, is Tamatsukuri Onsen. With its existence being recorded as early as 733 AD, this ancient onsen (hot spring) town is steeped in mythology and well known to this day for its skin-beautifying and moisturizing waters. Read on to find out what makes the waters of Tamatsukuri Onsen simply divine!
Overview of Tamatsukuri Onsen

One of Japan’s oldest hot springs, Tamatsukuri Onsen is known as a bijin-no-yu (bath of beauties) thanks to its mineral-rich waters, which are believed to be beneficial for the skin. People have long sworn by the rejuvenating properties of its waters, so much that according to the Izumo-no-Kuni Fudoki, Japan’s oldest surviving record of local culture, Tamatsukuri Onsen earned the nickname “The Bath of The Gods”. People believed that bathing here once would make one more beautiful, while bathing here twice would cure all maladies. To this day, Tamatsukuri Onsen’s reputation persists, with hot spring enthusiasts from western Japan and elsewhere visiting for a healing soak.

The literal translation of Tamatsukuri means “bead-making”, as this area was a center of production for beads such as the ceremonial curved, comma-shaped magatama bead, which was regarded as a sacred object and talisman. Magatama beads now serve as a symbol of Tamatsukuri Onsen, and you will find many magatama sculptures and souvenirs around town.

Tamatsukuri Onsen’s town center has several accommodations lining both sides of the Tamayu River. Also dotting the town are footbaths, bathing facilities, souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants, and statues of Japanese mythological figures. The town is especially picturesque during cherry blossom season when the trees flanking the river turn light pink. At night, the soft glowing lamplights add to the town’s enchanting atmosphere, making it perfect for a riverside stroll.
How to get to Tamatsukuri Onsen

The closest station to this onsen town is the eponymous Tamatsukurionsen Station, operated by JR West. From here, the town center is reachable by a seven-minute bus ride, a five-minute drive or taxi ride, or a 20- to 25-minute walk.
For those visiting from elsewhere in Shimane Prefecture, Tamatsukurionsen Station is just seven minutes from Matsue Station. From Izumoshi Station, a ride will take around 30 minutes by local train or as fast as 18 minutes by the Yakumo Express.
The next closest prefecture to Tamatsukuri Onsen is Tottori. You can get to Tamatsukurionsen Station from Yonago Station in around 40 to 45 minutes by local train or around 30 minutes via the Yakumo Express. From Tottori Station, some Super Oki and Super Matsukaze limited-express trains offer direct access to Tamatsukurionsen Station, with a one-way journey taking around an hour and 30 minutes. Otherwise, you’ll have to make a transfer at Matsue Station.
Things to see and do at Tamatsukuri Onsen

When visiting Tamatsukuri Onsen, bathing is a must! Some ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) make their baths available to day trippers, and several bathing facilities stay open from morning to night, such as the spacious Yu-Yu. You can also dip your toes in the town’s foot baths by the Tamayu River or at Himegami Square

And if you still can’t get enough of this town’s waters, sometimes called a “natural lotion” due to their abundance in sulfate and chloride, take a small bottle’s worth home for a small fee at Yuyakushi Hiroba. You can also buy beauty and skincare products made from hot spring water at shops around town!
Shimane Prefecture is the setting for many Japanese myths and legends, so it’s no wonder it is known as the “Land of the Gods”. It is reputed to have many power spots — areas with a high concentration of spiritual energy. In Tamatsukuri Onsen alone, you’ll find several spots that are said to grant wishes and good fortune, particularly in the romance department.

One such example is the ancient Tamatsukuriyu Shrine, where you can visit the Negai-ishi (wishing stone) and touch it with a kanai-ishi (wish-granting stone) to grant your wishes regarding love.

Meanwhile, Seigan-ji Temple is home to a unique statue of the guardian deity Oshiroi Jizo. It’s said that those who rub face powder onto this statue will be blessed with beautiful, blemish-free skin.
Where to stay at Tamatsukuri Onsen
1. Yunosuke no Yado Chorakuen


While Tamatsukuri Onsen has an array of excellent accommodations, Yunosuke no Yado Chorakuen, which has been in business since 1868, is great for its unique open-air bath, Ryugu-no-Yu. It is the largest mixed-gender outdoor bath in Japan, and it is surrounded by traditional Japanese buildings, allowing you to enjoy the natural view while soaking in Tamatsukuri Onsen’s soothing waters.
Rest assured that you won’t be getting naked in a mixed-gender bath; swimwear is provided at Chorakuen. This ryokan also offers regular gender-segregated hot spring baths and a private bath that can be reserved. With contemporary Japanese-western fusion rooms that retain a traditional design aesthetic, Chorakuen is an experience unlike any other.
2. Matsunoyu


Another delightful long-running ryokan is Matsunoyu, which offers scenic outdoor baths and even a bubbling indoor bath. The Japanese and fusion rooms here have incredible views, be it of the townscape or the greenery surrounding the inn. For a memorable stay, book the panorama suite, which overlooks Tamatsukuri Onsen and has a private bath. This ryokan is an excellent choice for couples or families and provides guests with a selection of charming yukata robes for rent.
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