Boukorou

Bokoro is a long-established ryokan in Tottori Prefecture that opened in 1931 (Showa 6). Its signature feature is said to be Japan’s only “lake-onsen,” where the hot spring water wells up from the lakebed of Lake Togo; it is a fully free-flowing (100% source-fed) onsen, and day-use bathing is also available. In the large public bath there is a “shampoo bar” with about 15 different shampoos available at all times—an interesting way to try products you’ve been curious about. Not only the baths but also the cuisine is a highlight: richly presented dishes featuring local specialties such as Lake Togo’s large shijimi clams, Daisen chicken, and Tottori wagyu. In winter, don’t miss Matsuba crab, a Sea of Japan specialty. Another well-known item is their “gyukotsu ramen” (beef-bone ramen), a Tottori specialty that’s reputed both inside and outside the prefecture. Access: by car, get off at Yubara IC (Yonago Expressway) and take Route 313. By train, a free shuttle bus operates from JR San’in Main Line “Kurayoshi Station.”