[Access] About 20 minutes by car from JR Takamatsu Station
[Website] Takamatsu Crater-no-Yu Kirara

The hot spring, uniquely named “Takamatsu Crater Onsen,” is said to originate from the western edge of a crater formed by a meteorite impact millions of years ago. Its spring quality is an alkaline cold mineral spring, which seems common among Shikoku’s hot springs. Natural Hot Spring Kirara is a type of super sento, bustling with visitors.

The name might sound a bit dubious at first (no offense), but the onsen water turned out to be wonderfully warming. I had my doubts initially, but I’m glad I chose this spot. Also, while many inns catering to pilgrims serve meals centered around sashimi, I enjoyed the pleasant change of a simple fried chicken set meal.