Introduction: The Rugged Frontier of the 100th Spring
On the dramatic, jagged coastline south of Tsuruoka, where Route 7 clings to the edge of the Sea of Japan, lies Hatozaki Onsen (波渡崎温泉). Historically famous as the 100th hot spring opened in Yamagata Prefecture, this area is a masterclass in coastal geology. While the original “Hotel Kaminari-ya” has moved into the annals of history, the spirit of this spring survives in the surrounding Sanze (三瀬) and Yura (由良) coastal clusters. This is a destination for the “Frontier Traveler”—those seeking ancient cannon batteries, emerald-green diving spots, and the raw power of the Sea of Japan crashing against “Tate-iwa” (The Standing Rock).
Key Information Table
| Address | 〒999-7463 山形県鶴岡市三瀬 / Sanze, Tsuruoka-shi, Yamagata |
| Google Maps | View on Google Maps |
| Mapcode for GPS | 449 618 693*02 (Sanze Beach Entrance) / 449 713 037*67 (Yura Marine Park) |
| Spring Quality (Historical) | Sodium-Chloride Cold Mineral Spring (19-20°C / Pure Saline) |
| Benefits | Exceptional for rheumatism, joint mobility disorders, and chronic female health issues.[21, 22] |
| Access | 10-min walk from JR Sanze Station; 15-min drive from Tsuruoka Nishi IC. |
| Current Stays | Misaburo (Sanze), Sakamotoya (Sanze), Hotel Yaotome (Yura). |
| Major Feature | “Tate-iwa” Sunset & Sea-to-Mountain Trekking. |
The Healing Waters: The Deep Saline Frontier
The waters of the Hatozaki-Sanze coast are geologically linked to the deep oceanic mineral deposits.
Scientific Composition: Historically classified as a Pure Salt Spring, the mineral content here is exceptionally stable. The neighboring Yura Onsen (just 3km north) continues this legacy with high-transparency chloride waters that mirror the oceanic purity.
Therapeutic History: For decades, these waters were the preferred “Rehabilitation Spring” for local fishermen. The combination of hypertonic salt and the high iodine content of the sea air provided a unique respiratory and musculoskeletal treatment environment.[21, 22]
Top Recommended Stays & Bases
- Hotel Yaotome (Yura Onsen): A grand 4-star resort overlooking the legendary “Yaotome” coast. Every room offers a panoramic sunset view.
- Ryokan Misaburo (旅館 仁三郎): A traditional culinary inn in Sanze, famous for its “Gourmet of the Waves” (crab and sea bream).[23]
- Sakamotoya (坂本屋旅館): A history-rich base perfect for hikers and those exploring the Route 7 coastal corridor.[23]
- Hotel Sun Resort Shonai: A modern facility located between Sanze and Yura, offering great accessibility for rental car travelers.
- Kobatoso (こばと荘): A small, budget-friendly lodge in the nearby Konabato district, ideal for long-term “Van-life” stays.[23]
Walking Guide: Cannon Batteries and Standing Rocks
Tate-iwa (Standing Rock): The symbol of Sanze. A massive vertical volcanic column where the sunset alignment in early spring and autumn is a spiritual experience for photographers.
The O-tsutsu-ba (Cannon Battery): Located on “Baba-iwa” rock, this 1848 historical site served as a samurai coastal defense battery against “Black Ships” (foreign vessels). It offers a rare look into Shonai’s military history.
Sanze Sea Diving: The rocky inlets near Hatozaki are famous for their high transparency. It is a popular spot for snorkeling to see the vibrant seaweed forests and sea urchins.
Local Gastronomy: Seaweed and Mountain Shojin
In the Hatozaki-Sanze area, food is about the “Vertical Bounty” (High mountain meets deep sea).
Coastal Foraging: Try the Iwanori (rock seaweed) soup and *Sazae* (turban shell) grilled with local soy sauce.
Vegan & Vegetarian Survival:
Sanze Seafood/Sansai Harmony: Most ryokans like Misaburo can prepare a “Coastal Shojin” menu with 3-day advance notice. Focus on Moso bamboo shoots (spring) and preserved mountain greens (Sansai) used by pilgrims.[24, 25]
Haguro-san Connection: Just 30 minutes away, Miyata-坊 and Saikan offer world-class **Vegan Shojin Ryori** (Buddhist vegan cuisine), which includes Sesame Tofu and Soy Milk Blancmange.
Cultural & Historical Context
Hatozaki and Sanze are tied to the “Legend of the Eight Maidens” (Yaotome). It is said the founder of Dewa Sanzan, Prince Hachiko, first landed on these shores after being guided by a three-legged crow, where he was met by eight dancing maidens in a sea cave. This shoreline is the physical threshold of the spiritual “Journey of Rebirth.”[28, 29]
Practical Travel Tips
- Cash is King: Small ryokans in Sanze and local seafood stalls do not accept credit cards. Withdraw JPY at the 7-Eleven in central Tsuruoka before traveling south.
- Language Barrier: This is an authentic “Non-tourist” zone. Use a voice translation app and rely on the intuitive hospitality (Omotenashi) of the inn owners.
- Tattoo Policy: Small inns in Sanze are very relaxed. Larger resorts in Yura (Yaotome) recommend cover stickers or private baths for evening soaking.
2025-2026 Latest Updates
Sanze Beach Season (July 19 – Aug 17, 2025): Featuring “Fisherman Experiences” like drag-net fishing and nocturnal sea-creature observation tours for families.
Yura Calendar 2026: A community project launching in January 2026 to showcase the best photography spots along the coast to global visitors.
Safety & Manners
Coastal Winds: The Sanze-Hatozaki stretch is prone to powerful seasonal winds. When walking on rocks like Tate-iwa, wear high-traction shoes and avoid the edge during high tide or stormy weather.
Winter Driving: Route 7 is a vital artery but can be treacherous. Always check the “Shonai Winter Road Information” app for real-time status of the Hatozaki tunnels and coastal bridges.[18, 19]
