Saki-no-Yu

621. Saki-no-Yu Onsen Spa, Shirahama, Wakayama ★★★ Legendary onsen in Shirahama on the bay shore. 500 yen. Hours depend on the season, 07/08:00 to 17/18/19:00. Part of the Shirahama tegata (1 sticker). Staff is very insistent about putting your phone and valuables in a locker rather than taking them to the changing room. Bath photos from the internet - they match. Bath by the water. Great view of the bay, tower, shore, buildings. Clear water with occasional small white mineral deposits. 40 degrees. Strong smell. When actually sitting in the bath, due to the stone height and water level, the ocean view is a bit narrow. In summer there were lots of local insects running around the rocks. Far bath from the water, almost no view. Clear water with occasional small white mineral deposits. 42 degrees. Strong smell. Different depth levels inside the bath. Very cool iconic spot in Shirahama, a must-visit. In terms of direct comparison, it reminds me of Hokkawa Onsen. And to me the latter comes out stronger - the ocean is closer, the view from the bath is better, fewer people, calmer staff. 16.06.2025