# Tamatsukuri Onsen

> One of Japan's oldest hot springs, praised for its beautifying waters since the Nara period. The onsen town along the Tamayu River features free foot baths, a shrine for wish-making, and the chance to create your own natural cosmetics.

- Prefecture: Shimane
- Type: Onsen
- Address: Matsue, Shimane, Japan
- Admission: Free

Tamatsukuri is one of Japan's oldest hot-spring resorts, with bathing here recorded as far back as the Nara-period Izumo no Kuni Fudoki of 733 AD. For more than 1,300 years its alkaline sulphate waters have been celebrated as a 'bijin no yu' or beauty bath, said to leave skin soft and smooth, gentle enough that some inns offer it as drinking water and visitors fill small bottles to take the 'beauty water' home. The onsen town stretches along the willow-lined Tamayu River, crossed by stone bridges and dotted with free public footbaths, making it a pleasant place to stroll in a yukata between soaks. At its heart is Tamatsukuri-yu Shrine, home to a famous wish-granting 'negai-ishi' stone where visitors pray for love and beauty. The area has an even deeper history as the ancient production centre of magatama, the comma-shaped sacred beads carved from local agate and jade that appear throughout Japanese mythology, and several shops still offer magatama-crafting experiences. Day-trip bathing is available, but Tamatsukuri is at its best as an overnight base for exploring nearby Matsue and the great shrine of Izumo Taisha.

## FAQ

### How do I get to Tamatsukuri Onsen?

From JR Matsue Station, take the JR San'in Line to Tamatsukurionsen Station (about 20 minutes). From the station, ryokans provide shuttle services, or walk about 15 minutes to the onsen town along the scenic Tamayu River.

### Do I need to stay overnight to enjoy the hot springs?

No, day-trip bathing is available at several facilities. Free foot baths are located along the Tamayu River. You can also buy a small bottle to collect hot spring water for your own 'beauty water' to take home.

### What is special about Tamatsukuri Onsen's water?

Known as 'beautifying water' since the Nara period (8th century), the alkaline sulfate springs are said to soften and moisturize skin. The water is gentle enough that some ryokans offer it as drinking water.

### What else can I do in Tamatsukuri Onsen?

Visit Tamatsukuri-yu Shrine to make wishes for love and beauty. Walk along the riverside with its stone bridges and willow trees. Some shops offer magatama (curved bead) crafting experiences - the area was historically known for these sacred beads.

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Source: Tamatsukuri Onsen — Japan Voyage