天空の足湯

Located near Kyoto and Shiga Prefecture, and now part of Fukui Prefecture, this nationally renowned tourist destination is commonly known as the "Sankata Goko" (三方五湖). "Sankata" refers to the area's location, Mikata District (perhaps also related to Lake Mikata), while "Goko" refers to the five nearby lakes: Lake Mikata, Lake Suigetsu, Lake Sugata, Lake Kukuko, and Lake Hyuga. Just imagining such a small seaside location surrounded by five lakes is enough to make one imagine the breathtaking scenery. Besides the usual lakeside walks and boat trips, the most internationally famous way to enjoy this scenery is perhaps by taking a cable car to a higher vantage point for panoramic lake and sea views. It's no surprise that this place has been chosen as a "lovers' sanctuary." However, for me, what's even more unmissable on this observation deck, offering views in all directions, is the Mihama Sky Foot Bath overlooking the northeast. Soaking your feet in the foot bath while enjoying the view is more than just icing on the cake; it's the perfect finishing touch, which explains why it received the Cool Japan Award. The mountaintop observation deck at Sanpō Gokho is highly dependent on the weather. On this occasion, when it was raining and snowing heavily, the view from the summit wasn't great, in addition to the strong winds and snow. However, even so, the charm of Sanpō Gokho, especially from the foot bath observation deck, was still captivating. One can only imagine how beautiful the scenery must be on a clear day. Sanpō Gokho Observation Deck ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️, Foot Bath +⭐️ P.S. Google Maps marks over a dozen points on the Sanpō Gokho platform; the reason for specifically choosing the Sky Foot Bath as the marker for this review is as described above.

This footbath is located on an observation terrace overlooking Wakasa Bay, and the view is absolutely stunning! The photos of the scenery I've uploaded were taken while soaking my feet in the footbath. I wanted to keep my feet in there forever while gazing at the sea. I visited in October 2024, and the water was neither too hot nor too cold—just perfect for soaking my feet. The footbath is free of charge; it's included in the entrance fee to Rainbow Line Summit Park. Towels were sold for 100 yen. I didn't buy one, but many people were. There was also a place to put used towels for those who didn't want to take them home.

This is a fantastic facility at the summit park. Enjoying a warm foot bath while gazing at the stunning views of the Mikata Five Lakes is truly a delight. The foot bath is free, but you're advised to bring your own small towel; disposable towels are also available for 100 yen.

A free foot bath at the top of Rainbow Park, offering a beautiful view. It’s worth noting that to get there, you’ll need to park in the paid parking lot (¥800) and then take the chairlift up (¥1,000).

One of the two footbaths was under maintenance. I waited a bit before using it. The free footbath with a view of the mountaintop was wonderful. Towels were available for purchase for ¥100.