Shirahone Onsen

Shirahone Onsen

Shirahone Onsen (白骨温泉) is a secluded hot spring resort nestled in the mountains of Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, Japan. The name “Shirahone,” meaning “white bone,” refers to the milky white color of the hot spring water, caused by the formation of calcium sulfide crystals from the sulfur and calcium in the spring. The hot springs are renowned for their therapeutic properties and are said to be particularly effective for skin conditions and rheumatism.

The hot springs at Shirahone Onsen are all natural and sourced from the surrounding mountains. Visitors can choose from various public and private baths, each with its own unique features and healing properties. Several baths are located outdoors, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain scenery.

In addition to the hot springs, Shirahone Onsen is known for its traditional Japanese inns, or ryokan. Many of these ryokan are housed in historic buildings that date back to the Edo period (1603-1868), providing guests with an authentic experience of Japanese hospitality and cuisine.

Located at an elevation of approximately 1,400 meters, Shirahone Onsen is a popular summer retreat due to its cool climate. It is also a great base for hiking and other outdoor activities, with several trails and natural attractions in the surrounding mountains. The area is particularly stunning in the fall when the leaves change color, transforming the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows.

Many ryokans in Shirahone Onsen offer day-trip bathing options, allowing visitors to experience the unique sulfurous waters even without an overnight stay. With its serene atmosphere and therapeutic hot springs, Shirahone Onsen is an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation in a beautiful natural setting.

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Getting there

By Train and Bus

  1. From Matsumoto Station, take the Matsumoto Electric Railway Kamikochi Line to Shin-Shimashima Station (about 20 minutes, 700 yen)
  2. From Shin-Shimashima Station, take a bus to Shirahone Onsen (about 70 minutes, 1450 yen one-way)

Direct Bus

Direct bus available from Matsumoto Station to Shirahone Onsen (about 1 hour 40 minutes, 1950 yen one-way)

By Car

  • About 1 hour 30 minutes from Matsumoto IC

Free Shuttle Bus

Some ryokans operate free shuttle buses from JR Matsumoto Station (reservation required)

Shirahone Onsen Open-air Bath

HoursWeekdays: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Weekends and holidays: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed on Thursdays.
AdmissionAdults: 520 yen
Elementary school students and under: 310 yen
Phone+81 263-93-3121
Address4197-4 Shirahone, Azumi, Matsumoto, Nagano 390-1515, Japan
Official Websitehttps://shirahone-onsen.org/
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