Lake Togo is a brackish lake connected to the Sea of Japan, with the Hawai Onsen hot spring district along its shore — a name that draws easy comparisons but has nothing to do with Hawaii beyond the coincidence. A path circles the lake and is popular for an easy walk or cycle, with the ryokan strung along one side.
Lake Togo is a brackish lake in Yurihama Town connected to the Sea of Japan, ringed by the small hot spring town of Hawai Onsen, whose name (unrelated to the American state) comes from a local legend. A paved lakeside path circles much of the shoreline, passing ryokan, a handful of foot baths, and quiet fishing spots, making an easy walk of about 1 to 1.5 hours for those who cover the main shoreline stretch without a full loop. The lake's brackish mix of fresh and seawater supports a distinct ecosystem, and local ryokan draw bathing water from springs beneath the lakebed itself. Several properties offer day-bathing for visitors not staying overnight, generally available at limited hours that vary by ryokan. The most striking time to visit is early evening, when the sun sets over the water and reflects across the lake's calm surface, a view many local ryokan are specifically positioned to showcase from their baths and dining rooms. The town has a low-key, unhurried character compared to larger onsen destinations, and is quiet outside of the Obon and New Year holiday travel periods.
| Admission | Adult Free (lakeside walk); day-bathing at ryokan approximately ¥500–1,200 ($3.30–8.00) where offered · Child Free (lakeside walk) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open 24 hours (lake and shore); ryokan day-bathing hours vary |
| Typical visit | 1–1.5 hours for a lakeside walk; overnight recommended for the onsen experience |
| Best time | Early evening for sunset reflections across the brackish lake |
| Getting there | Bus from JR Kurayoshi Station (about 20 min) to Hawai Onsen |
| Address | Hawai, Yurihama-cho, Tohaku-gun, Tottori 682-0723 |
Location
Hawai, Yurihama-cho, Tohaku-gun, Tottori 682-0723
35.4344, 133.9757 View on map
Highlights
- Brackish lake connected to the Sea of Japan
- Lakeside walking path with foot baths
- Onsen water drawn from springs beneath the lakebed
- Sunset reflections across the lake surface
- Quiet, low-key ryokan town atmosphere
Tips for visiting
- Visit in early evening for the best sunset reflections on the lake
- Day-bathing hours vary by ryokan; confirm before visiting without an overnight stay
- The lakeside path is level and suitable for an easy stroll before or after a meal
- The town is quieter than Kaike or Misasa Onsen, suited to visitors seeking a relaxed pace
- Combine the visit with the nearby Tottori Nijisseiki Pear Museum in Kurayoshi
When to visit
Early evening for sunset reflections across the lake.
Accessibility
The lakeside path is paved and mostly flat, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers along the main shoreline stretch.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit take?
A lakeside walk covering the main shoreline takes about 1 to 1.5 hours; an overnight stay is recommended for the full onsen experience.
Is it worth it for kids?
Yes, the flat lakeside path is easy for children, though the main appeal of the onsen baths is geared toward adults.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, photography is unrestricted along the public lakeside path, particularly popular at sunset.