Nestled in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture, Shibu Onsen is a historic hot spring town known for its iconic “Kyu-to Meguri ” tour of nine public baths and its charming atmosphere, perfect for strolling in a yukata. With its snowy landscapes, therapeutic hot springs, and close encounters with snow monkeys, it offers a quintessentially Japanese escape for those seeking an extraordinary experience. The cobblestone paths lined with wooden buildings create the illusion of stepping back in time.
This guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of your stay—from practical tips to recommended routes that will enrich your trip.
Contents
How to Get to Shibu Onsen
By Train
From Tokyo Station
Take the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen to Nagano Station (approx. 1 hr 30 min).
Transfer to the Nagano Dentetsu Line to Yudanaka Station (approx. 45 min).
From Yudanaka Station, it’s about a 10-minute walk or a 5-minute bus ride to Shibu Onsen.
From Nagoya Station
Take the JR Chuo Main Line Limited Express “Shinano” to Nagano Station (approx. 3 hrs).
Transfer to the Nagano Dentetsu Line to Yudanaka Station (approx. 45 min).
From Yudanaka Station, it’s about a 10-minute walk or a 5-minute bus ride to Shibu Onsen.
From Osaka Station
Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya Station (approx. 1 hr).
Take the JR Chuo Main Line Limited Express “Shinano” to Nagano Station (approx. 3 hrs).
Transfer to the Nagano Dentetsu Line to Yudanaka Station (approx. 45 min).
From Yudanaka Station, it’s about a 10-minute walk or a 5-minute bus ride to Shibu Onsen.
From Yudanaka Station to Shibu Onsen, you can either walk or take a bus.
Check the latest weather forecast before your visit: [weathernews ]
Recommended Itineraries
Half-day tour of classic sights
13:00 – Begin the “Kyu-to Meguri” at Bath No. 1 “Hatsuyu”
14:00 – Pay respects at Takayakushi Temple
14:30 – View the exterior of Kanaguya Main Building
15:15 – Sample local street food in the hot spring town
16:30 – Relax in a foot bath
Top Attractions and Things to Do
Jigokudani Monkey Park
This rare spot allows you to observe wild Japanese macaques soaking in hot springs during the winter. It’s about 15 minutes by bus and a 30-minute walk from Shibu Onsen.
Shiga Kogen Ropeway
Enjoy breathtaking views from an altitude of 2,000 meters in Shiga Kogen, a scenic area showcasing the beauty of each season. It’s about 30 minutes by car from Shibu Onsen.
Yudanaka Onsen
Located next to Shibu Onsen, Yudanaka offers historic inns, foot baths, and local culinary experiences. It’s about a 20-minute walk away.
Best Local Foods to Try
In Shibu Onsen , you can savor traditional dishes made with ingredients nurtured by the rich nature of Shinshu. From light snacks perfect after a bath to full meals showcasing regional flavors, don’t miss the chance to indulge.
Shinshu Soba – Handmade buckwheat noodles with a fragrant aroma and smooth texture.Nozawana Pickles – A Shinshu specialty with a crunchy texture and a pleasantly salty flavor.Oyaki – A rustic local dish of steamed buns filled with a variety of ingredients like vegetables or sweet red bean paste.
Where to Stay
Whether you’re staying in Shibu Onsen or exploring nearby Yudanaka, accommodations are mostly within walking distance from Yudanaka Station , making access to hot springs and the Jigokudani Monkey Park easy. Some hotels also offer shuttle service and scenic mountain views.
Luxury
Kokuya Ryokan – About 5 minutes’ walk from Yudanaka StationYoroduya Ryokan – About 7 minutes’ walk from Yudanaka StationMasuya Ryokan – About 10 minutes’ walk from Yudanaka Station
Mid-Range
Hotel Omodaka – About 5 minutes’ walk from Yudanaka StationSeifuso Ryokan – About 2 minutes’ walk from Yudanaka StationSakaeya Ryokan – About 8 minutes’ walk from Yudanaka Station
Budget
Hotel Itakura – About 10 minutes’ drive from Yudanaka StationRakuyokan – About 2 minutes’ walk from Yudanaka Station
FAQ
Is there a specific order to follow for the “Kyu-to Meguri”? How long does it take?
There is no fixed order, but starting from Bath No. 1 is the most efficient. It takes about 2 hours to complete the full circuit.
Can I enjoy the bath tour even on rainy days?
Yes, all the baths are indoors, so you can enjoy them regardless of the weather.
Do I need a reservation to use the baths?
The public baths are open to all and do not require reservations.
Can I bathe if I have tattoos?
Policies vary by inn, but public baths generally allow guests with tattoos.
Are there lockers to store my luggage?
Some public facilities and inns in Shibu Onsen offer lockers for storage.
Is it safe to walk around the town at night?
Yes, the area is well-lit and locals are often out, making it very safe.
Can I visit Jigokudani Monkey Park and Shibu Onsen in the same day?
Yes, it’s easy to travel between them by foot or bus, making it possible to enjoy both in a single day.
Conclusion
Shibu Onsen is a rare gem where you can experience Japan’s traditions, nature, and healing culture all in one place. Enjoy a walk through cobblestone streets in a yukata, soak in the history of the nine public baths, and meet the snow monkeys for an unforgettable memory.
When you’re ready to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and reset your mind and body, Shibu Onsen offers everything you need. If you already have plans to visit Nagano, now’s the time to check for room availability. And if you’re still choosing your destination, Shibu Onsen promises a deeper connection to Japanese culture that will make your journey truly special.
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