Kawahara no Yu

Kawahara no Yu is a free communal hot spring bath located at the confluence of the Shima River and Shinyu River at the foot of Hagi Bridge in Shima Onsen, Nakanojo Town, Gunma Prefecture. This historic hot spring town has origins dating back over 1,200 years, with the earliest theory placing its founding between 782-806 AD when General Sakanoue Tamuramaro stayed in the area. The name "Shima" means "forty thousand," referencing the forty thousand ailments that the waters were traditionally believed to cure.

The stone bathhouse resembles a cave, with exterior walls, inner walls, and bathtubs all constructed from stone. Shima Onsen gained national recognition in 1954 alongside Sukayu Onsen in Aomori and Nikko Onsen in Tochigi, establishing its reputation as one of Japan's premier therapeutic hot spring destinations. The mineral-rich waters are naturally soft and gentle on the skin.

Visitors can experience authentic communal bathing in this rustic stone setting while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of natural hot spring waters. Kawahara no Yu is one of three free public onsen in the Shima Onsen area, making it accessible to day visitors exploring the historic resort town. The facility provides basic amenities with simple lockers, though visitors must bring their own bathing necessities. Guests are required to wash before entering the bath in a designated washing area.

The bathhouse is conveniently located directly in front of the Shima Onsen bus stop. From Tokyo, travel takes approximately three hours via JR Joetsu/Hokuriku Shinkansen (50 minutes) to Takasaki, then JR Agatsuma Line (55 minutes) to Nakanojo Station, followed by a 40-minute bus ride to Shima Onsen. Bus service from Nakanojo Station to Shima Onsen costs ¥1,050 and runs every 40-70 minutes. Kawahara no Yu is open daily from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM with free admission for visitors.