🗺️ Hakuba Onsen (White Bone Hot Spring)

The hot spring town of Shirabuki Onsen in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, is located roughly in the center of Nagano. It features hot springs that emerge from the eastern slopes of the famous scenic spot, Mount Norikura, surrounded by dense forests and the rich natural landscape of the Yukawa Valley, making it a hot spring destination full of rustic charm. During the Taisho era, the writer Nakazato Kaizan praised this hot spring in his historical novel as having "a colorful landscape, truly magnificent," which helped spread its name throughout Japan. Since then, Shirabuki Onsen has become a sought-after sanctuary for many who wish to escape the hustle and bustle, appreciate the beauty of the changing seasons, and enjoy the blessings of nature. Shirabuki Onsen is renowned for its excellent water quality, regarded as the best hot spring in Shinshu. The milky white, slightly acidic water has a silky texture and is known for its skin-moisturizing effects. There is an old saying that "three days in the bath will prevent colds for three years," highlighting its therapeutic properties. The hot spring street features several ryokan (traditional inns), as well as the public hot spring "Shirabuki Onsen Public Outdoor Bath," where visitors can enjoy the open-air bath while taking in the natural scenery of the valley. Additionally, please note that the Shirabuki Onsen Public Outdoor Bath is closed for the winter season from late November to mid-April.

About an hour's drive from Matsumoto City, this hot spring town is surrounded by a valley filled with natural beauty. The milky white, mildly acidic spring water is praised as the best hot spring in Shinshu. The easily accessible "Shirakubo Onsen Public Outdoor Bath" is also worth recommending for a day trip (note that it has seasonal closures in winter).