Shibu Onsen Historical Bath Houses and Modern Hotel Coexistence

A small hot spring resort in Yamanouchi, Nagano Prefecture. Featuring approximately 80 traditional inns, it is known for its unique 'yumeguri' tradition where guests bathe in nine public bathhouses. Renowned for its old-fashioned charm and rustic atmosphere, it attracts many backpackers and younger tourists seeking an authentic onsen experience.

An ancient hot spring in Nozawa Onsen village, Nagano Prefecture, featuring 13 public bathhouses scattered throughout town and available free to residents. Managed as communal assets since the Edo period, they remain central to community identity. Also known as a ski resort, attracting approximately 1.5 million visitors annually. It exemplifies the relationship between Japanese hot spring culture and local society.

An ancient hot spring in Yamanouchi, Nagano Prefecture, known since the Nara period. Nine shared public baths and inns cluster tightly in a narrow valley, preserving the Edo-period onsen town character. The 'hot spring hopping' culture is particularly developed here, with guests traditionally visiting all nine public baths. Recently renewed attention through a 2023 anime film.

A hot spring resort in Nozawa Onsen Village, Nagano Prefecture, featuring the historic 'Thirteen Baths'—communal facilities since the Edo period, still maintained by locals. Numerous free outdoor baths scattered throughout allow casual access to hot springs. Also renowned as a ski resort, winter snow bathing experiences attract many visitors seeking immersion in snowy mountain settings.

A hot spring resort in Yamanouchi, Nagano Prefecture, preserving the Edo-period hot spring lane with nine stone-built communal baths still in use. Many historical structures remain, creating townscapes harmonizing vintage inns with contemporary facilities. The tradition of 'bath-hopping'—visiting all nine baths—continues, offering authentic nostalgic onsen experiences.

A hot spring city boasting the highest volume of spring water in Japan. Known for its 'Beppu Hatto' — eight distinct onsen areas — and 'Jigoku Meguri' (Hell Tour), the city has roughly 2,300 individual springs. Diverse tourism experiences leverage these thermal resources in creative ways.