Mimata Onsen

A hot spring area nestled in the mountains of Hamada City in western Shimane Prefecture. This historic onsen first opened around 150 years ago, in the late Edo period, and has long been used by many people as a therapeutic bathing retreat.

Mimata Onsen is odorless, colorless, and clear, and is known for its spring quality created by the synergistic effect of strong alkalinity (pH 9.8) and a high concentration of metasilicic acid. On social media, visitors describe it as “silky-smooth water” and “just like lotion,” making it especially popular with people interested in beauty care and those with skin concerns. Backed by two forms of evidence, academic research and medical research, it has been proven to be one of Japan’s leading “beautifying hot springs” with outstanding skin-regenerating effects, and you can experience its distinctive smooth, velvety texture that seems to cling to the skin. In 2025, it was ranked No. 1 in Japan for the third consecutive year in the Beauty Skin category of the Hot Spring General Election, further confirming the exceptional quality of its waters.

Traditional ryokan inns are scattered throughout the hot spring town, giving it an old-fashioned charm. You can enjoy free-flowing hot spring baths and cuisine made with seasonal ingredients. There are also newly renovated inns, so you can choose the one that best suits your style.

There is also a day-use bathing facility and a footbath park, making it easy to enjoy the hot springs casually. Surrounded by rich natural scenery, this calm and peaceful hot spring town is especially recommended for those who want to relax and enjoy onsen in a quiet setting.