Senko Hot Spring

On my way back from visiting my hometown in Nagano, I was looking for a good hot spring to stop by, so after doing some research, I decided on Senko Onsen. In conclusion, it was the right decision. The parking space in front of the facility (about four cars?) was full, so I was thinking, "Maybe not today...", when a local person who just happened to come out said, "I'll be right out!" and made a space for me. When I went inside, a staff member apologetically said, "As of January 1st, the price has gone up by 100 yen to 600 yen," but for someone living in the Tokyo metropolitan area, 600 yen for a quality hot spring is a bargain. When I entered the changing room, all the baskets were in use, and I was wondering what to do, when another local person emptied a basket for me, saying, "I'm leaving now, so please use it." When I entered the bathroom, both washing areas were in use, and four people were bathing in the tub, so there was no time to enter, but another local person who was in the tub made a space for me, saying, "I'm getting out now, so please wait a moment!" As for the hot water itself, as everyone has commented, it was colorless and transparent with a faint sulfur smell, exactly the type of spring I like. I thoroughly enjoyed the water, which was just the right temperature, and truly felt the warmth of the locals, who were so kind to an outsider like me. I hurried out of the bath to make way for the people waiting behind me, but even though I didn't bathe for very long, my body was surprisingly warm and didn't cool down for a while. A local person told me, "It's crowded because it's the New Year holidays, but it's not usually this crowded, so it's great to come again," so I definitely want to visit again. And I'm looking forward to interacting with the locals again.

Following the signs along the road, you'll find the hot spring's parking lot after descending a steep, winding curve. It's a bit narrow and difficult to park in, but there are a few more spaces further back. The hot spring itself is small, with only an indoor bath, two washing areas, and a bathtub that can only comfortably fit about three people. A gentle sulfurous scent fills the air, and the water quality is pleasant. The temperature is just right, and for 500 yen, it's very satisfying. There seem to be many regulars, and I enjoyed interacting with the locals. It was a wonderful bath.

The day trip fee was 600 yen, but it increased by 100 yen. There are two washing areas, and the showers are weak. If the shower next to it is in use, the shower gets even weaker. The hot spring water temperature was just right, and it warmed my body. My skin was smooth, and the smell of the hot spring was wonderful. The water quality leaves the soles of my feet and buttocks a little black, but this can be removed with a pumice stone. The post-bath drinks were also reasonably priced, which was nice. There seems to be a camping spot nearby, too.

It has a gentle sulfurous smell. The water quality caused the soles of my feet to turn slightly black. The interior is charming and there's a wood-burning stove. It's a warm and relaxing space. There's parking for about 3 cars, two showers in the washing area, and the bathtub is big enough for 3-4 people. It's a small, unassuming business. The 500 yen entrance fee is also a plus. The hairpin turn just before the property is quite sharp. It was a unique, little-known hot spring, and I would visit again if I have the chance.

The gentle sulfur smell really gives it that hot spring vibe. There are two washing areas in the indoor bath alone, and the tub can only fit three people. It's not too hot, so you can soak in it while looking out the window. It costs 500 yen, and there seem to be many regulars. A non-alcoholic beer after a bath is the best! Large vehicles should avoid forcing themselves onto the downhill slope at the entrance. There is space for about four more cars further back. The water was great!