We were available to use the free hot spring( donation ¥200) , it is well maintained, large enough for 4-5 person in both men or women side. It is the best bath in the morning... love this offer from Shima Onsen town . Wish to be here each day
This is one of the few free public baths in Shima Onsen Village, open daily from 9 AM to 3 PM. It's small and has only one bath, but very pleasant and cozy, regularly cleaned and maintained. The bath has quite strong sulfurous odor, which I assume is similar to that of the other hot spring waters in northern Gunma region.
It's right in front of a bus stop, so travelers who arrive at the Shima after a long bus ride can warm themselves up right away. I arrived in the rain, and it felt like heaven to have a hot spring right in front of me. This would be a great place to start your Shima Onsen trip.
Plus, the scenery is gorgeous. A capsule made of cobblestones stands right alongside a flowing stream, providing a great view. Given its proximity to the river, the water from the hot springs, drawn from underground bedrock, seems to flow directly through the drainage ditch into the river.
Everytime I went by the onsen it was locked. Since it's only one room, someone could of been using this facility. The views is incredible.
This is one of the public bathhouses in Shima Onsen that is open to the general public.
Many people only take pictures because of its proximity to Sekizenkan, which served as a model for the bathhouse in the movie Spirited Away, the fact that you descend stairs towards the river, and the unique exterior of the building. However, the water quality is excellent, so it would be a shame not to bathe.
Although small, it is hygienically maintained and there are no inconveniences in using it (there is no toilet).
The water temperature is quite high. Even a short bath will leave your skin feeling moisturized and your feet warm for a long time.
Sodium-Calcium Chloride-Sulfate Hot Spring
Hypotonic Neutral High-Temperature Hot Spring
Free-Flowing Hot Spring Water
It's quite hot, but adding water would negate the essence of the spring water.
For hot spring enthusiasts who prioritize water quality, this is an irresistible experience of enjoying a wonderful "free-flowing hot spring water."
This hot spring boasts a luxurious composition of **sodium-calcium chloride-sulfate hot spring (hypotonic neutral high-temperature hot spring)**. It offers a powerful bathing sensation that gently permeates the body, and a long-lasting warming effect after bathing.
The temperature is slightly hot, but adding water here is strictly forbidden. Adding water would diminish the beneficial components and freshness of the spring water, negating its true meaning. Only by enduring the heat can you truly appreciate the value of this renowned hot spring. This is a place I highly recommend to anyone seeking authentic "hot spring" experiences.
