Hawai Onsen and Togo Onsen
Hawai Onsen and Togo Onsen are neighboring hot spring districts in the town of Yurihama, Tottori Prefecture. Both hot springs are next to a lake surrounded by mountains, so visitors exploring either area can bathe while enjoying views of the landscape. Thanks to nearby train stations, these hot springs are also accessible from major local sightseeing destinations such as the Tottori Sand Dunes.
As a day trip or an overnight stay, Hawai and Togo Onsen welcome nature-loving visitors.
History of the Hot Springs
Photo by: PIXTA/ pixelcatLake Togo was once encircled by three towns called Hawai, Togo and Tomari. Since the 19th century, local residents have used hot springs originating from the lake. The development of hot spring inns took off in the 20th century, creating resort areas on the lake’s western and southern shores.
In 2004, Hawai, Togo and Tomari merged to form the larger town of Yurihama. Names of the old towns can still be found in the hot spring districts and other local landmarks.
Hot Springs Facilities
Photo by: PIXTA/ dekobokoHawai Onsen and Togo Onsen both offer day-use and overnight hot springs facilities. There are several ashiyu (foot baths) spread across the two areas. Each ashiyu is uniquely designed and named after one of Japan’s Shichifukujin (Seven Gods of Fortune)—well-known deities associated with various types of luck.
Hawai Onsen has four ashiyu named after deities associated with things like longevity, wisdom, the arts and prosperity:
- Fukurokuju no Yu
- Ebisu no Yu
- Jurojin no Yu
- Benzaiten no Yu
The remaining ashiyu in Togo Onsen are named after gods associated with fortunes such as wealth, protection and happiness:
- Hotei no Yu
- Bishamonten no Yu
- Daikokuten no Yu
Walking or cycling to all seven ashiyu takes visitors on a journey through local parks and townscapes.
Other Attractions
Photo by: PIXTA/ kawayasuMultiple lakeside parks offer paved trails, kids’ playgrounds, seasonal flower-viewing spots and scenic landmarks such as the yotsute ami (four-armed fishing nets). In the past, these unique nets caught fish and shrimp by being raised and lowered into the lake with pulleys. The yotsute ami remaining on the lake today are popular photo spots.
Chinese Garden Enchoen—built in 1995 to commemorate friendship between Tottori and China’s Hebei Province—is another local attraction. Designed by Chinese engineers, the garden is famous for its authenticity. Regular demonstrations of Chinese performing arts, such as acrobatics, are another highlight.
