Kamuiwaki Onsen (神威脇温泉)

Introduction: The Sunset Sanctuary of the “Rebirth Island”

Perched on a sheer cliff on the western edge of Okushiri Island, looking directly into the vast, indigo waters of the Sea of Japan, lies Kamuiwaki Onsen (神威脇温泉). This hot spring is the ultimate expression of “End of the Road” travel. Okushiri Island, known as the “Island of Rebirth” for its miraculous recovery from the 1993 tsunami, guards its western coast as a place of spiritual and physical renewal. The name “Kamuiwaki” comes from the Ainu word for “the side where the gods are,” and it is an apt description for this spectacular thermal outpost. For the international traveler, Kamuiwaki Onsen offers a sensory reward that is rare in the modern world: soaking in mineral-rich, opaque green waters while watching the sun sink below the horizontal line of the sea. It is a destination of absolute horizons, resilient island spirit, and a restorative warmth that feels like a private gift from the earth.

Key Information Table

The Healing Waters: The “Medicine” of the West Coast

The water at Kamuiwaki Onsen is a powerful Sodium-Chloride / Sulfate Spring. It emerges from the coastal rock layers at a high temperature and is used in its most natural form (Gensen Kakenagashi).
The Visuals: The water has a unique, opaque greenish-amber tint, a sign of its deep-sea mineral concentration.
The Sensation: Because of the high salt content, the water pushes minerals into the skin, preventing moisture from evaporating and keeping your body core warm for hours. This “Salt Pack” effect is legendary among islanders for curing chronic muscle fatigue and joint inflammation.
The facility features a large indoor tub with floor-to-ceiling windows facing west. The second-floor tub is especially famous for its panoramic view; as you soak, it feels as if you are floating directly above the Sea of Japan waves.

Top Recommended Stays & Bases on Okushiri Island

• Okushiri Onsen Hotel (Nearby): Located 5 minutes away in the Yuhama district, this is the island’s premier accommodation. It offers spacious Japanese rooms and legendary multi-course dinners featuring local **Sea Urchin** and **Abalone**.
• Minshuku Imada: A classic fisherman’s guesthouse where the focus is 100% on the food. Expect no-frills lodging but a feast of seafood caught by the owner just hours before.
• Kamuiwaki Campground: Located adjacent to the onsen, this is a favorite for international campers and cyclists. You can camp on the cliff and walk 2 minutes to the onsen for a morning wash.
• Okushiri Guest House Imakame: Located near the main port area, it provides a modern, stylish alternative for solo travelers who want to explore the island by rental car.

Must-Visit Scenic Spots: Blue Waters and Sacred Rocks

Miyatsu Benten-gu: A short walk from the Yuhama district. A stunning red Torii gate sits atop a massive sea stack reachable by a narrow staircase. The view of the “Okushiri Blue” water from here is world-class.
Nabetsuru-iwa (Doughnut Rock): The symbol of the island, a massive rock formation with a perfect natural hole in the center, located near the main port.
Okushiri Tsunami Memorial Museum: Located at the southern tip, this is an essential stop to understand the island’s history of resilience and recovery.

Local Gastronomy: The Kingdom of Sea Urchin

Okushiri is legendary for its Sea Urchin (Uni) and Abalone (Awabi).
Okushiri Uni-don: From July to August, the island serves the world’s sweetest sea urchin, which feeds on the high-grade island kelp.
Okushiri Wine: The only island in Japan producing its own wine. The Pinot Gris and Merlot pair perfectly with the local seafood.
Vegetarian/Vegan Survival:
For Vegans: Okushiri is a producer of Hokkaido Soybeans and Potatoes. At the local minshukus, request “Vegetable Tempura” (ensure no egg) and local Soba. The nearby farmer’s stalls sell fresh local corn in the summer which is a perfect 100% vegan snack. We recommend buying the local Okushiri Seaweed as a souvenir.

Cultural & Historical Context

The name “Kamuiwaki” reflects the Ainu people’s deep spiritual connection to the island’s western edge. They viewed the hot springs as a gift from the “Kamuy” (gods) to protect the residents from the harsh winter sea. The onsen served as a psychological sanctuary during the island’s rebuilding era after 1993, cementing its status as a “Place of Healing” in the local psyche. Today, Kamuiwaki stands as a symbol of the island’s rugged independence and its welcoming spirit toward global travelers.

Practical Travel Tips for International Visitors

• Tattoo Policy: Kamuiwaki Onsen is a municipal facility and is generally very tattoo-friendly. Because the island is used to welcoming travelers from all backgrounds during its recovery years, small and medium tattoos are rarely an issue.
• Transportation: A rental car is absolutely mandatory on Okushiri Island. Public transport is infrequent and does not cover the cliffside scenery. Book your rental car at the same time as your ferry or flight.
• Cash Only: Most facilities on the island, including the onsen and local seafood shacks, are strictly cash-only (JPY). There are only two ATMs on the whole island (Post Office and North Pacific Bank). Withdraw sufficient cash in Hakodate before departing.
• Language Support: English signage is minimal. Have a translation app ready. The islanders are incredibly kind and will use gestures and smiles to ensure you feel welcome.

2025-2026 Latest Updates

In 2025, Okushiri launched the “Emerald Eco-Tour,” featuring guided snorkeling and SUP (Stand-up Paddleboard) sessions in the ultra-clear western coves near the onsen. For the 2026 season, the Kamuiwaki facility is installing a new “Sunset Viewing Lounge” with high-fidelity speakers playing traditional island music.

Safety & Manners

In the onsen, always rinse your body thoroughly before entering the tub. Because the water is highly saline, rinse off well at the end to prevent the salt from irritating your skin. On the island’s narrow roads, **be careful of “Ezo-shika” deer**—they are extremely active at dawn and dusk and can cause serious accidents. Finally, respect the quiet of the island community; people here value the peace of the ocean, so keep noise levels down in the evening.