One of the selected “stories” is based in Tottori Prefecture in western Honshu. Said to be a place of “purification from the six roots of evil, and healing of the six senses,” the site contains a temple said to be Japan’s “most thrilling national treasure,” as well as the “world’s top radon hot springs,” namely, the Misasa Hot Springs.
According to legend, the Misasa Hot Springs were discovered by a white wolf. People used to purify themselves there, in mind and body, before visiting the nearby Sanbutsuji Temple on Mt. Mitoku (900m above sea level).
The Nageire-do main hall of the temple (see photo) — already designated a Japanese national treasure — was built in the late Heian period (1086-1184), an era dominated by the Imperial court in Kyoto. It is famous for its breathtaking location extending from a near-vertical mountain wall.
Today, 900 years after discovery of the hot springs, reverence for Mt. Mitoku continues. Temple visitors are said to be purified from the six “roots of evil” (namely, the eye, ear, tongue, nose, body and mind), while hot spring visitors are said to get their six senses (sight, hearing, taste, smell, touch, and feeling) cured.
The Misasa Hot Springs, the world’s leading radioactive hot springs, are rich in radon. It boasts hormesis properties, which refer to the body’s positive biological responses to low exposures to toxins and other stressors.
Specifically, the waters are said to boost the body’s immunity and natural healing power, while helping to relieve bronchitis and diabetes symptoms, as well as beautifying the skin. Drinking the water is also said to have antioxidant effects.
