
Complete Guide to Shibu Onsen: What To Do and Where To Stay
Shibu Onsen is an historic hot spring town in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture known for its charming narrow streets, traditional ryokans (Japanese-style inns), and a unique series of public baths. With over 1,300 years of history, Shibu Onsen offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience authentic Japanese culture, all while soaking in its rejuvenating hot spring waters. The town’s proximity to Jigokudani Monkey Park, famous for its snow monkeys bathing in natural hot springs, adds an extra layer of appeal to this destination.
How to get to Shibu Onsen

Shibu Onsen is easily accessible by train and bus, making it a convenient getaway from Tokyo and Nagano City, the largest cities within its proximity.
From Tokyo Station: Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station (about an hour and a half). From Nagano, take the Nagano-Dentetsu Line to Yudanaka Station (about 45 minutes), followed by a short bus or taxi ride to Shibu Onsen.
From Nagoya Station: Take the Chuo Line Express Train to Nagano Station (about 2 hours and 50 minutes). From there, it’s a short bus or taxi ride to Shibu Onsen.
What makes Shibu Onsen special?

Shibu Onsen stands out for its strong ties to tradition and the distinctive experience it offers visitors. One of its most notable features is its nine public bathhouses, each with its own unique mineral composition and healing properties. Guests staying at an accommodation in Shibu Onsen are given a special key to access all nine baths, allowing them to embark on the Shibu Onsen bath-hopping pilgrimage. Some believe visiting all nine baths will bring good fortune and ensure good health.
The town retains a quaint, old-world atmosphere, with narrow cobblestone streets and traditional wooden buildings lining the paths. Unlike more modern hot spring resorts, Shibu Onsen offers a glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to experience hot springs culture as it has been enjoyed for centuries.
Activities and experiences at Shibu Onsen
Shibu Onsen offers visitors a delightful mix of relaxation, history, and nature. Whether you’re interested in immersing yourself in the town’s healing hot springs, wandering through its traditional streets, or exploring its local wildlife, there’s something here for every visitor.
1. Explore the nine public baths

Undoubtedly, the highlight of any visit to Shibu Onsen is the pilgrimage known as the Kyuto Meguri. The town’s nine public bathhouses are all fed by natural hot spring sources, each with distinct water temperatures and mineral compositions. These bathhouses are exclusively open to guests staying at the local inn, and visitors are encouraged to fill out a towel bought from the front desk with each bathhouse’s unique stamps to commemorate their journey. Whether you’re seeking healing for sore muscles, improved circulation, or simply relaxation, there’s a bath at Shibu Onsen for every need.
2. Visit Jigokudani Monkey Park

A short distance from Shibu Onsen, Jigokudani Monkey Park is one of the area’s top attractions. Here, you can witness the famous Japanese macaques, or snow monkeys, as they soak in the natural hot springs, particularly during winter. The park offers a unique opportunity to see these wild monkeys up close in a picturesque snowy setting, participating in an activity we often assume is just for humans. It’s a must-visit for animal lovers and photographers.
3. Stroll through the historic town

Dress in traditional yukata robes and walk through Shibu Onsen’s beautiful cobblestone streets. The town has preserved its Edo-period charm, with traditional wooden buildings, small shops, and ryokans welcoming guests for centuries. As you wander the town, you’ll find footbaths where you can dip your feet, cozy cafes, and local souvenir shops offering everything from handmade crafts to locally sourced snacks that are hard to find anywhere else.
4. Discover Zenko-ji Temple

Just a short journey from Shibu Onsen in nearby Nagano lies Zenko-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most important and revered Buddhist temples. It’s a perfect day trip for exploring more of Nagano’s rich history. The temple is home to one of the first-ever statues of the Buddha to be brought into Japan. It is surrounded by beautiful grounds for a peaceful retreat from the hot spring town.
Where to Stay: Shibu Onsen Shibu Hotel

For a memorable stay, Shibu Onsen Shibu Hotel offers the perfect base to experience the hospitality Japan is renowned for. Located in the heart of Shibu Onsen, this traditional ryokan welcomes guests from all over the world. Guests can enjoy indoor and outdoor baths fed by the town’s famous hot spring waters. Many rooms feature traditional tatami mats and futon bedding, providing a truly Japanese ryokan experience.

The hotel also offers an exquisite kaiseki menu, a multi-course meal comprising a series of small and meticulously prepared dishes. Many meals are made entirely from local ingredients and presented beautifully. The ryokan also provides easy access to the nine public baths, with many attractions and restaurants just a short stroll away, making it an excellent base for exploring Shibu Onsen and beyond.
Find other accommodations