Shibu Onsen (Hot Springs)
- 渋温泉
- Nagano
Right along the Yokoyugawa river rests this quaint, old-fashioned hot springs town. Visitors will be greeted by the sight of steam rising all over the town, coming from many sources. The town is also famous for the cobblestone pathways surrounded by traditional wooden structures that date back from the Taisho and early Showa period of Japan’s history. Aside from the long-established ryokans (Japanese inns) and large chain hotels, the town boasts of 9 public bath houses. Visitors can tour these 9 bath houses to wash away their “kyu” (nine) also read as “ku(ro)” (troubles)―known as “kyuyumeguri,” or “tour of the 9 bath houses for purification.” Although the public bath houses are for the locals, they are also open to visitors, who can enjoy touring around them while wearing their yukata (light cotton kimono).