Inamuragasaki Onsen (稲村ヶ崎温泉)
Discover Inamuragasaki Onsen (稲村ヶ崎温泉)
Nestled between the sea and mountains in Kamakura (鎌倉), Kanagawa Prefecture (神奈川県), Inamuragasaki Onsen (稲村ヶ崎温泉) is famous for its natural golden-hued waters. This coastal hot spring offers breathtaking views of Enoshima Island (江ノ島) and Mt. Fuji (富士山), making it a soothing retreat infused with ancient geology and folklore.
Soaking in the Experience: Mineral-Rich Waters and Stunning Views
The hot spring here is a rare “moor spring” (organic bicarbonate cold mineral spring), known for its skin-purifying and moisturizing qualities. The water is rich in bicarbonate ions and metasilicic acid, created from decomposed organic matter like ancient plants and pine roots. Once thought to exist only in Tokachigawa (十勝川, Hokkaido) and Baden-Baden (Germany), this type of spring is incredibly rare.
The golden color of the water—dubbed “Golden Water”—stems from iron-rich layers of earth and dark sand, with local legends even claiming that traces of gold dust may sometimes appear. Despite its coastal location, the water is not salty and leaves your skin feeling smooth and refreshed.
Legends and History: Swordsmith Lore and Gold Mine Traces
The coastline around the area features black sands rich in iron, with magnetic properties strong enough to cling to magnets. This iron sand is believed to have been used in sword forging during the Kamakura period (鎌倉時代). A local legend even suggests that the famed swordsmith Masamune (政宗) forged blades from this very sand. Nearby place names like “Kanayama in Gokurakuji” (極楽寺字金山) hint at the historical presence of gold mines in the area.
Facilities & Comfort: Thoughtful Design for Relaxation
The main bath area includes a sauna and a cold bath sourced from the spring itself. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Sagami Bay (相模湾), Enoshima Island (江ノ島), and Mt. Fuji (富士山) from the indoor baths—especially magical during sunset. The open-air bath provides privacy and openness at the same time, creating a deeply relaxing environment.
On the first floor, you’ll find the footbath café “Ninai,” where you can savor meals and drinks while soaking your feet and enjoying the view.
Visitor Guide: Age Limits and Etiquette
Guests under 13 are not allowed in the main baths, even with an adult. However, private family baths are available for children aged 4 and up. Infants wearing diapers are not permitted in any bath.
Following Japanese custom, be sure to wash your body before entering the bath. After bathing, it’s recommended not to rinse off with a shower, but rather to gently pat your skin with a towel to retain the natural minerals.
Getting There and Opening Hours
The onsen is a 3-minute walk from Inamuragasaki Station (稲村ヶ崎駅) on the Enoden Line (江ノ島電鉄). If you’re driving, up to 2 hours of free parking is available. It is open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM (last entry at 8:00 PM), and general admission for the main bath is ¥1,500. For private bath reservations and café details, visit the official website.
Nearby Attractions: Sunset Views and Coastal Walks
Right next to the onsen is Inamuragasaki Park (稲村ヶ崎公園)—one of Shonan’s top sunset-viewing spots. Sitting on a bench while listening to the waves and cooling down after a warm bath is the perfect way to end your day.
How to Enjoy Your Stay Nearby
At the unmanned smart hotel “Tosh’s Place (トシズプレイス),” each room features unique bathing setups—from high-end shower heads to hinoki wood bathtubs. Enjoy a relaxing soak in your private room, then take a short walk to Inamuragasaki Onsen (稲村ヶ崎温泉) for an open-air hot spring experience. The location allows for an easy stroll along the seaside at dusk, creating a tranquil and memorable experience just minutes away by Enoden Line (江ノ島電鉄) and foot.