Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Mitani Onsen is a hot spring resort stretching along Mikawa Bay in Gamagori City, Aichi Prefecture. Its scenic location facing the sea is appealing, and it has long been a popular spot for locals to seek out therapeutic baths and health benefits. There are accommodation facilities, day-use bathing facilities, footbaths, and more scattered around, and the open-air baths overlooking the sea and the sunset views from the bathhouses are particularly popular. Another great attraction is the opportunity to enjoy the hot springs in combination with dishes made with fresh seafood caught in Mikawa Bay.
The quality of the spring water varies depending on the facility, but as is typical of seaside hot springs, many are chloride springs (which have excellent heat retention properties and are known to keep you warm longer after bathing), and are generally said to be good for relieving stiff shoulders, sensitivity to the cold, and fatigue (please check the information at each facility for details).
Highlights
- Open-air bath and large bath overlooking the sea: The bath offers a wonderful sense of openness as you gaze out at the view of Mikawa Bay. The view is especially beautiful at sunset.
- Meals at the accommodation: Kaiseki cuisine made with seafood from the local Mikawa Bay and seasonal ingredients. Many accommodations also offer dishes made with fresh fish caught right before your eyes.
- Footbaths and free rest areas: There are easy-to-use footbath spots in the hot spring town that you can use in between your walks.
- Strolls and seaside scenery: The coastline and embankments around the hot spring town, the views from the promenade, and the atmosphere of the fishing port are also highlights.
- Seasonal Events and Fireworks: In the summer, fireworks displays are sometimes held nearby, which can be enjoyed in conjunction with the hot springs (the dates vary from year to year).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train: Approximately 5-15 minutes by bus or taxi from JR Tokaido Main Line's Mikawa Mitani Station or Gamagori Station (depending on your accommodation and destination). The number of buses running is limited at certain times, so please check the timetable before setting off.
- By car: Take the Tomei Expressway (via Toyota JCT) or the Isewangan Expressway, and then take the national or prefectural roads from the nearest Gamagori IC or Otowa-Gamagori IC. Parking is available at accommodations and public parking lots, but may be full during peak seasons.
- By plane: From Chubu Centrair International Airport, take the airport limousine bus or train to Gamagori (travel time will vary depending on the means of transportation).
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip bathing: 2-3 hours (bathing + lunch or snack + stroll)
- Half-day tour (including nearby spots): 3-5 hours
- Relaxed stay (accommodation): 2 days and 1 night (1 night is recommended to fully enjoy the hot springs and sightseeing, including dinner and breakfast)
Nearby spots
- Laguna Ten Bosch (Laguna Gamagori): A resort complex (amusement park, shopping, hot spring facilities, events, etc.) popular with families and couples. Easily accessible from Mitani Onsen.
- Takeshima: A small island that represents Gamagori, you can visit and stroll around by crossing the bridge over the sea. You can enjoy the sea breeze and the scenery.
- Gamagori City's coast and fishing port: Enjoy fresh seafood at local seafood shops and restaurants.
- Day trips to nearby areas: You can also visit hot spring resorts around Gamagori, such as Nishiura Onsen and Katahara Onsen (famous for its seasonal cherry blossom viewing).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Busy periods: Golden Week, Obon, New Year's, and weekends tend to be crowded for both overnight stays and day trips. Early reservations are recommended, especially during beach season and long holidays.
- Transportation and Parking: Buses run only a limited number of times, so if you are using public transportation, be sure to check the timetable. If you are visiting by car, be sure to allow plenty of time as parking lots can get crowded during peak seasons.
- Onsen etiquette: Please observe general onsen etiquette, such as pouring water over yourself and washing yourself in the washing area before bathing, refraining from occupying the bath for long periods of time, and not putting your towel in the bath. Some bathhouses have restrictions on bathing due to tattoos, so if you have a tattoo, please check with the accommodation or facility in advance.
- Seasonal precautions: In summer, the sun is strong and the beach is crowded, and in winter, the cold sea breeze can make the open-air bath feel even colder. During typhoon season (mainly in autumn), business hours and traffic at seaside facilities may be affected, so please check the weather forecast.
- Check facility information: Opening hours, availability of day-trip bathing, fees, types of hot springs and baths, etc. vary by facility. Please check the official website or call before visiting to confirm the latest information.
--This concludes our introduction to Mitani Onsen. Please plan your itinerary after checking the latest information on accommodations, events, bus schedules, etc. If you would like to discuss your itinerary or find out more about nearby spots, please let us know your purpose (hot springs, sightseeing, gourmet food, etc.). We will also suggest specific itineraries.
