Yunotsu Hot Springs Town

Flourishing as a port town in the 16th century, Yunotsu had an important role in trading the silver from the Iwami Ginzan Mine. It also played a big role as a base for supplying goods to Iwami Ginzan, supporting the life of the local workers. Its healing hot spring waters discovered 1,300 years ago and the old-fashioned townscape can still be enjoyed to this day.

The streets of Yunotsu are lined with buildings from the Edo Period (1603-1868) to the Showa Period (1926-1989), giving it a retro atmosphere loved by locals and visitors alike. The very interesting townhouses, inns, and bathing facilities give people a glimpse of life in the old days. They have also been chosen as a Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings in Japan.

The hot springs use natural water from springs located literally behind the buildings, so the temperature tends to be quite high. There are two public baths here that you can enjoy together with the locals, a very authentic experience.

Aside from the hot springs and townscape, Yunotsu has many more reasons to visit; the Tatsunogozen Shrine holds weekly kagura performances. There are other temples and shrines to visit, a kagura mask workshop where you can try painting your own mask and a Yunotsu ceramic workshop that's a must-see for fans of this craft, with pottery-making experiences.