A Scenic Location Facing Engetsu Island
The greatest attraction of Mifune Foot Bath is its beautiful view of Engetsu Island, the symbol of Shirahama. The island’s official name is Takashima. It is famous for its distinctive circular sea cave naturally carved through the center of the island. Because the opening resembles a full moon, the island became known as Engetsu Island, meaning “Full Moon Island.”
The view from the foot bath is particularly beautiful in the evening. As the sun slowly sinks toward the horizon, the sky and sea turn shades of orange and red, while Engetsu Island appears as a dramatic silhouette. Around the spring and autumn equinoxes, the setting sun can align with the circular opening in the island, creating a spectacular scene that attracts photographers from across Japan.
The foot bath itself has a simple, peaceful design, with a traditional open-sided shelter and a bamboo-style roof that blends naturally with the coastal surroundings. Sitting here with your feet immersed in warm water while enjoying the sea breeze is an ideal way to relax after exploring Shirahama.
Enjoy the Warm Waters of Shirahama Onsen
Mifune Foot Bath uses the Suzushiyu hot spring water directly from its source. The water is classified as a sodium-magnesium chloride spring and is known for its warming properties. The water temperature is maintained at approximately 41°C (106°F), making it comfortable for a leisurely foot bath.
Shirahama Onsen is traditionally regarded as one of Japan’s Three Ancient Hot Springs, together with other historic hot spring destinations such as Arima and Dogo. For centuries, travelers have visited the area to enjoy its therapeutic and relaxing waters. At Mifune Foot Bath, visitors can experience the warmth of this famous hot spring while remaining fully dressed, making it especially convenient during a sightseeing walk.
At the center of the foot bath is a decorative monument inspired by the Hongakujihigai shell. Hot spring water flows from the monument into the bath, adding a distinctive coastal touch to the facility and creating a pleasant atmosphere associated with Shirahama’s maritime character.
Combine Your Visit with a Shirahama Coastal Walk
Mifune Foot Bath is an excellent stop when exploring the coastal attractions around Shirahama and Engetsu Island. From Shirahama Beach, visitors can walk toward Engetsu Island along the coast, enjoying the fresh sea air, beautiful ocean views, and relaxed atmosphere along the way.
The area is especially enjoyable in the late afternoon. Taking a leisurely coastal walk before relaxing at the foot bath allows visitors to experience the slower pace and natural beauty of Shirahama.
Just nearby is Matsunoyu, a traditional public bathhouse with a simple, local atmosphere. It is well loved by residents and offers visitors another opportunity to experience Shirahama’s hot spring culture. The relatively high mineral and salt content of the water helps the body retain warmth, making it especially pleasant after spending time outdoors.
Shirahama is also home to several other foot baths, including Tsukumoto Foot Bath, Yanagibashi Foot Bath, Yuzaki-hama Square Foot Bath, and Sandanbeki Foot Bath. Exploring several of these facilities can be a fun way to experience Shirahama’s hot spring culture while sightseeing around town.
History and Nature Around Engetsu Island
The area around Mifune Foot Bath is also associated with Shirahama’s long history. Nearby stands a stone monument bearing the inscription “Mifune-no-Tani”. According to local tradition, the name refers to the place where a boat was moored when Empress Saimei is said to have visited the area in ancient times.
This story provides a glimpse into the area’s long history and reminds visitors that the coastline around Shirahama has been connected with people and travel since ancient times.
The waters around Engetsu Island are also known for their clarity and rich marine environment. Various fish and other marine life inhabit the surrounding sea. The peaceful scenery of Seto Bay, combined with the area’s natural coastal environment, makes this one of Shirahama’s most attractive landscapes.
Visit in the Evening for a Spectacular Sunset
Late afternoon and sunset are among the best times to visit Mifune Foot Bath. As the sun descends over the western horizon, the sky and ocean gradually take on warm shades of red and orange. Engetsu Island then appears in silhouette, creating one of the most memorable sunset scenes in southern Wakayama.
Watching this beautiful landscape while enjoying the warmth of a natural hot spring is a wonderfully peaceful experience. The combination of ocean scenery, hot spring water, and sunset views makes Mifune Foot Bath feel remarkably special, especially considering that the facility can be enjoyed free of charge.
Mifune Foot Bath Information
Location: 743-5 Shirahama, Nishimuro District, Wakayama Prefecture
Opening Hours: 8:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. (7:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. in July and August)
Closed: Open daily
Admission: Free
Access: Approximately 15 minutes by car from Shirahama Station on the JR Kisei Main Line
Nearest Bus Stop: Shirahama Bus Center, followed by approximately a 5-minute walk
Parking: 2 free parking spaces
A Peaceful Break by the Sea
Mifune Foot Bath is an ideal place to take a relaxing break during a trip around Shirahama. Here, visitors can enjoy the soothing warmth of a historic hot spring while taking in the ocean, sea breeze, and spectacular views of Engetsu Island.
Whether you visit during a coastal walk or arrive in time for sunset, a few peaceful moments at Mifune Foot Bath offer a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty and relaxing atmosphere of Shirahama.