Bessho Hot Spring

This place is filled with retro streets, and the nostalgic atmosphere begins right at the station. The station itself is a nostalgic wooden structure, and from the building itself to the wooden chairs and furnishings, it feels like stepping back in time. Walking from the station, you'll find a tranquil and quiet experience throughout the hot spring area, a town where time has stopped, where all the good old days have been preserved. Several wooden buildings of hot spring inns stand nearby, creating a soothing and relaxing scene. The day trip I had originally planned to take was suddenly closed, so I ended up strolling through the town. The faucets along the way all flowed hot spring water, so be careful! If you have time, take the Ueda Electric Railway's Bessho Line for a hot spring town tour!

I visited for a day trip. It is close to Ueda city, has a paid parking lot and is easily accessible by car. As you stroll around the hot spring town, you will find a foot bath. My goal this time was to visit the three public baths in Bessho Onsen. I enjoyed the history behind the names of each bath - "Oyu", "Daishiyu" and "Ishiyu" - and the atmosphere of the baths, and was able to fully enjoy the sulfur springs. I enjoyed the nice water.

Bessho Onsen, often called the "Kamakura of Shinshu," boasts numerous ancient temples, some of which are national treasures, and offers many public baths. Unlike the profit-driven temples of Kamakura in Kanagawa Prefecture, Bessho retains the dignity and value of ancient temples nestled in the foothills, which is very appealing. The hot springs also offer unique local flavors, such as udon noodles and meat dishes made with horse meat.

A leisurely 10-minute walk up a gentle slope from the station will take you to Daishiyu, where the hot spring water flows directly from the source, and costs 300 yen to enter. This public bath is aimed at locals, but it can only accommodate up to five people, so it might be difficult to get in on weekends. The water is clear, but so thick that it leaves a lingering smell of sulfur, leaving your skin feeling smooth.

It's not a place with many photo spots or tourist attractions, but it's a small, quiet place where you can relax in the hot springs or at a cafe without worrying about others. There are also lodgings that are recommended for solo travelers, so it was the perfect way to treat yourself. If you come during the autumn foliage season, you can also enjoy the scenery.