Shibu Onsen: the Lesser Known Nagano
Experience the Charm of Shibu Onsen
Shibu Onsen, located in Nagano Prefecture, is known for its abundant and diverse hot spring sources. The town boasts a rich history of onsen culture, with 100% natural hot spring water flowing directly from the source in all its inns and public baths. The varying mineral compositions offer unique therapeutic benefits, from nerve pain relief to skin beautification. Visitors can enjoy a variety of hot spring experiences tailored to their needs and health conditions.
Shibu Onsen invites you to explore its rich onsen culture, historical architecture, and warm community hospitality. Discover unique local attractions, and immerse yourself in the tranquil yet lively atmosphere of this charming onsen town.
A Journey Through Time
The streets of Shibu Onsen are a living museum, with buildings that have been restored and maintained to reflect their historical significance. The town's architecture, featuring lattice windows, earthen walls, and narrow alleys, offers a glimpse into its 1300-year history as a therapeutic and inn town along the Kusatsu Road. Walking through Shibu Onsen feels like traveling back in time.
Community Hospitality
The entire town of Shibu Onsen extends its hospitality to visitors. Beyond the traditional inns, the town offers various attractions like shooting galleries, free table tennis areas, and galleries displaying local folklore and collections. The town's mascot, "Shibuzaru-kun," adds a playful touch to the experience.
Hot Springs
Unique Hot Spring Experiences
In Shibu Onsen, many inns have their own private sources and distinctive bathing facilities. Exploring the traditional inns and their hot springs is a highlight of any visit. Additionally, the town features nine public baths, each with its own historical significance and therapeutic benefits. For a relaxing break, visitors can enjoy foot baths like "Nofutomaru" and "Kyusoku-dokoro Shingen."
Preserving a Precious Resource
The residents of Shibu Onsen value their hot springs as an essential part of daily life. The town’s infrastructure includes a network of tunnels and pipes that distribute hot spring water to homes and inns, providing heating and snow removal. The community is actively involved in maintaining these resources, ensuring the sustainable use of their natural hot springs.
List of Day Use Hot Spring Hotels:
- Kameya Ryokan
- Shirogane-ya Ryokan
- Sumino-Yu
- Tsuruya Ryokan
- Takimoto Ryokan
- Kanaguya
- Shibu Hotel
- Stone Bath
- Ichizaemon
- Maruzen Ryokan
- Koishi-ya Ryokan
- Yoroduya Ryokan
- Daimaru-ya
- Shineikan
- Yumoto Ryokan
- Masaki Ryokan
- Kadoya Ryokan
- Ikariya Ryokan
- Matsuya
- Hishiya Torazo
- Yamato-ya
- Sakaeya
- Amagawa-so
- Tsukimi no Yu Yamaichi-ya
Sightseeing & Activities
Exploring Local Delights
Shibu Onsen offers numerous shops selling local souvenirs and handmade treats, including the famous hot spring buns. The "Ito Okashi Box" allows visitors to mix and match various sweets from different stores, making for a personalized and delightful souvenir.
Spiritual Hotspots
Shibu Onsen is home to several historically significant shrines and temples. The Yokoyu Mountain Onsen Temple, linked to the legendary warrior Takeda Shingen, and Shibu Ko Yakushi Temple, dedicated to healing, are notable spiritual sites.
Local Festivals and Events
Shibu Onsen hosts various local festivals and events throughout the year, from traditional shrine festivals to tea ceremonies and summer festivals. These events bring together locals and visitors, fostering a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Eco-Friendly Living
The spirit of "Otema" (self-sufficiency) is alive in Shibu Onsen. Residents take pride in maintaining their town, from managing hot spring sources to beautifying the streets with seasonal flowers. This tradition reflects a deep-rooted connection to their natural environment.
Sightseeing Spots
- Oku-Shima Lake
- Maya Falls
- Hyugami Yakushido
- Koizumi and Oizumi Falls
- Sekizenkan
- Miyuji-an Marutaka
- Ogura Falls
- Crystal Mountain
- Yamaguchi River Sound Foot Bath
- Momotaro Falls
- Inakuri Shrine
Wildlife Viewing
- Jigokudani Monkey Park
Access
How to Get to Shibu Onsen from Tokyo, Kansai, or Matsumoto
From Tokyo:
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By Train:
- JR Hokuriku Shinkansen: Take the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station (approximately 1.5 hours).
- Nagano Dentetsu Line: Transfer to the Nagano Dentetsu Line (Nagaden) at Nagano Station and take a train to Yudanaka Station (approximately 45 minutes).
- Bus or Taxi: From Yudanaka Station, take a bus or taxi to Shibu Onsen (approximately 10 minutes).
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By Car:
- Take the Kanetsu Expressway from Tokyo, then merge onto the Joshinetsu Expressway. Exit at the Shinshu-Nakano IC and follow the signs to Shibu Onsen (approximately 3-4 hours).
From Kansai (Osaka/Kyoto):
-
By Train:
- JR Tokaido Shinkansen: Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from either Osaka or Kyoto to Nagoya Station (approximately 1-2 hours).
- JR Shinano Limited Express: Transfer to the JR Shinano Limited Express at Nagoya Station and travel to Nagano Station (approximately 3 hours).
- Nagano Dentetsu Line: Transfer to the Nagano Dentetsu Line at Nagano Station and take a train to Yudanaka Station (approximately 45 minutes).
- Bus or Taxi: From Yudanaka Station, take a bus or taxi to Shibu Onsen (approximately 10 minutes).
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By Car:
- Take the Meishin Expressway from Osaka/Kyoto, then merge onto the Chuo Expressway. Exit at the Suwa IC, and follow the signs to Shibu Onsen (approximately 5-6 hours).
From Matsumoto:
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By Train:
- JR Shinano Limited Express: Take the JR Shinano Limited Express from Matsumoto Station to Nagano Station (approximately 1 hour).
- Nagano Dentetsu Line: Transfer to the Nagano Dentetsu Line at Nagano Station and take a train to Yudanaka Station (approximately 45 minutes).
- Bus or Taxi: From Yudanaka Station, take a bus or taxi to Shibu Onsen (approximately 10 minutes).
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By Car:
- Take Route 19 from Matsumoto to Nagano, then continue on Route 292 to Shibu Onsen (approximately 1.5-2 hours).
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