温泉
ONSEN
The rise of “Tojiba” and the
Revitalizing Power of Nature
Shiobara Onsen is said to have been discovered by a Buddhist priest around 1,200 years ago. The mysterious phenomenon of warm bubbling water from the rocks became an object of worship. In fact, festivals dedicated to the Onsen are still held at the shrine today. During the Warring States period, the soothing waters became a place for samurai to heal their wounds. Then in the peaceful Edo period, it flourished as an Onsen resort for pleasure. 'Touji' is a healing process that utilizes the power of Onsen to cure body aches and skin problems. For the past 100 years, Onsens have become an integral part of life in Satoyama as farmers and hunters relaxed in the Onsens to heal after a busy day. With the advent of transportation, Shiobara Onsen became a popular destination for travelers interested in its health benefits.
The Unique Charms of Onsen Villages Nestled in Satoyama
In Japan’s mountainous regions, kurort health resorts take advantage of the differences in elevation. Particularly in Shiobara, the varied terrain offers great access to hiking trails from Onsen villages. By experiencing elevations, it's believed to stimulate the body and promote relaxation. Additionally, outdoor activities organized by local groups can effectively refresh both mind and body. And after a day exploring nature, don't forget to indulge in the soothing Onsen to melt away fatigue. Make the most of the blessings of nature and experience the healing power of Onsen, elevated terrain, and serene landscape all in one location.
6TYPES, 7COLORS ONSEN
Types of Onsen: Composition and Health Benefits
Onsen have different effects and benefits depending on the source. In Shiobara, there are six types of Onsen with seven different colors — a rarity even nationwide. This makes Shiobara the perfect destination for enjoying Onsen hopping.
Simple Hot Spring
- Features
- Gentle mineral composition suitable for post-illness rehabilitation.
- Effects
- Autonomic nervous system disorders, insomnia, depressive symptoms, etc.
Chloride Spring
- Features
- Thermal insulation and moisturizing effects, with a gentle mineral composition.
- Effects
- Cuts, peripheral circulatory disorders, sensitivity to cold, etc.
Hydrogen Carbonate Spring
- Features
- Exfoliating and skin-smoothing properties.
- Effects
- Cuts, circulatory disorders, sensitivity to cold, dryness, etc.
Sulfate Spring
- Features
- Contains components that provide moisture and firmness to the skin, often referred to as "wound-healing waters."
- Effects
- Cuts, peripheral circulatory disorders, sensitivity to cold, etc.
Sulfur Spring
- Features
- Contains properties that promote blood flow improvement through capillary dilation and breakdown of melanin.
- Effects
- Atopic dermatitis, psoriasis vulgaris, chronic eczema, etc.
Acidic Spring
- Features
- Contains antibacterial and detoxifying properties, as well as astringent effects that tighten the skin.
- Effects
- Atopic dermatitis, plaque psoriasis, epidermolysis, etc.
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MILKY WHITE -
DARK REDDISH BROWN -
BLACK -
GOLDEN -
GREENISH WHITE -
INK BLACK -
TRANSPARENCY
TIPS FOR VISITING ONSEN
Enjoying the Hot Springs of Shiobara Onsen
When touring the Onsen, it's essential to verify the operating hours and transportation schedule beforehand. Information is available at the Tourist Association desk in the Shiobara Monogatari-kan.
TIPS01
PLAN
Use our website and other resources as a reference to create various onsen hopping plans. Explore different bathing experiences and find the one that best suits your preferences.
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CHECK
For additional tips and access information on Onsen bathing facilities with daytrip options, inquire at the tourist information center or the front desk at your accommodation. Some facilities may operate on an irregular schedule, so be sure to check in advance.
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ACCESS
For convenient access to nearby attractions, refer to the transportation information on our website. Be sure to check the timetable on the official website beforehand.
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RULES
When enjoying the Onsen, please follow the bathing rules to ensure everyone's enjoyment. Make sure to wash your body in the showering area before entering the bath.
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HOW TO ENJOY
Discover Shiobara Onsen's Diverse Onsen Experiences Recommended by Local Accomodations
VOICE01
Boost your Skin Cell Turnover Rate with a Sulfur
Onsen Mud Pack and Chloride Spring!
At YusoShirakaba, you can experience sulfur Onsen and "mud packs" that are said to be effective for beautiful skin and skin conditions. The pack is made up of concentrated "Onsen mud" drawn from the bottom of the source located behind the ryokan. Applying the mud to areas where you feel discomfort for about 3 minutes leaves your skin feeling smooth and refreshed after rinsing off the mud. Since sulfur Onsen can be strong, it's better to soak for only 10 to 15 minutes. For those who want to continue their Onsen hopping afterward, the daytrip Onsen at KAMENOI HOTEL comes highly recommended. The moisturizing effect of the chloride spring gently nurtures the skin, maximizing the beautifying effects.
If you aim for beautiful skin from the inside out, drinking Onsen water can also be effective. At Yuppo no Sato Foot Bath located in the heart of the Onsen villages, there is a drinking fountain available for free use. The Onsen water has a slightly salty taste with mineral undertones. It's said that Shiobara's Onsen water was once used as a stomach remedy. Even now, Shiobara has a culture of drinking hot spring water, and at local dumpling events, they offer dumplings made using the Onsen water from Yuppo no Sato Foot Bath. Some hot spring ryokans also offer dishes using Onsen water for their guests.
YusoShirakabaTakehito SUGIYAMA
Have a soak in natural spring water flowing directly from the geothermal source behind the building. Mr. Sugiyama holds an official qualification as an Onsen sommelier.
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Cook your Own “Onsen Egg” and Taste Unique Onsen Gourmet Food made with Satoyama Ingredients!
The diverse Onsen cuisine is another highlight of Shiobara Onsen. At Kounsou, you can experience making Onsen eggs using the natural heat and water from the Onsen. Nasu-produced eggs are cooked directly at the source, adjusted to about 62-63°C for about 30 minutes, resulting in a rich yolk with a smooth texture. You can soak your feet in the foot bath while waiting for the eggs to cook.
Overnight guests can also enjoy the local flavors of Shiobara at dinner. Be sure to try the “Kajika Sake,” which is made by heating a bottle of sake with a mountain stream fish called “kajika” inside. Each fish is individually gutted, sun-dried, then grilled, making it a special treat.
When it comes to Onsen food, ‘Onsen Manju’ are always recommended, and there are plenty of places to buy sweets in Shiobara Onsen. The "Chestnut Onsen Manju" at Shosendo Mainstore is very popular for its smooth skin and soft filling. The "Inaka Manju" from Imaiya Seika has a handmade chunky red bean filling with a simple taste, perfect for those who prefer less sweetness. If you feel a bit hungry after your Onsen bath, be sure to stop by and try them.
Kounsou
A ryokan where you can fully enjoy the skin-beautifying onsen water that contains six times the usual amount of moisturizing metasilicic acid. The spring water flows directly from the ryokan’s private source at a rate of 200 liters per minute.
VOICE03
Feel the Fatigue Melt Away with
a Detoxifying Onsen Soak for
Body and Mind
Hanare-no-Yado Kanon is a charming ryokan with just 10 rooms tucked away in nature. The private wood-fired sauna is popular even among experienced sauna enthusiasts. Unlike typical saunas, Hanare-no-Yado Kanon’s sauna features higher humidity and the gentle warmth of far infrared rays, making it comfortable even for novices. Enjoy relaxing conversations as the aroma of firewood wafts through the air.
While strolling around the town, be sure to try the footbath at Yuppo no Sato. The stones embedded in the bath stimulate the feet to relieve aches and pains from walking. The perfect accompaniment on your Onsen journey is the original drink from "The Tales of SHIOBARA 1200 Years." Mr. Hosoi recommends the “Shiobara Onsen Premium Beer,” which is also available at the ryokan.
Hanare-no-Yado KanonKunihiko HOSOI
A quiet accommodation overlooking the Hokigawa River, ideal for spending precious moments with loved ones. It features a variety of amenities, including a sauna and a bedrock bath.