Daikoku Onsen
With the manager Masako Tokuda (centre), at the entrance
We visited "Daikoku Onsen" in Ishiki, Kagoshima city.
What is special in Daikoku Onsen is that the water is directly sent from the hot spring source, it is not artificially heated up or mixed with cold water. Even in summer, the water temperature is not adjusted. That is, the water is as is. This kind of water is very unusual.
At the reception, the manager Masako welcomed us with a smile. She is a bit shy, but very kind.
The dressing room is well maintained and clean. There are also lockers to keep your valuables safe while bathing.
The water type is simple thermal. and it has a subtle sulphur flavour. However, every inspection performed in the past did not show that a sulphur is contained. That is odd. Also the pH value is 8.3, which is not highly acid, but the water makes the skin so smooth. That is odd as well. There is something odd about this water, however we can say the water quality is awesome. Some women bathers say the water can be an alternative of a skin lotion because of its moisturizing effect.
The water is pumped up from 70 meters below the ground, and gushes out of the faucet. As the water is continuously overflowing, you can always enjoy the fresh water.
Yoshiaki comes here to enjoy bathing everyday. He is 88 year old, however his skin is still really smooth thanks to the benefits of Daikoku Onsen. The majority of bathers are locals, but tourists are welcomed.
The manager Masako says the recommended period is from October to May (before the rainy season). She also says that bathing in daytime on weekdays is recommended because you can enjoy the clear water quietly and sometimes the bath is crowded in weekends.
MAP
INFORMATION
Name: Daikoku Onsen
Address: 8-22-20 Ishiki, Kagoshima, Kagoshima
Tel: 099-228-5300
Access (Car): 15 min from the centre of Kagoshima city. 27 min from the Kagoshima airport
Parking Lot: 30
Opening Hours: 06:00 - 22:00
Price: JPY 390
