Bessho Onsen Station

Bessho Onsen Station serves as the gateway to one of Japan's oldest hot spring towns, located in Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture. The station marks the terminus of the Ueda Electric Railway's Bessho Line, a charming local railway that has connected the area since 1921. The station building itself, constructed in 1924, features distinctive half-timbered architecture reminiscent of European alpine stations, making it a unique sight among Japanese railway stations and earning it recognition as a registered tangible cultural property.

The surrounding Bessho Onsen area has been drawing visitors for over 1,000 years, with hot spring waters believed to have healing properties. The town is often called "Kamakura of Shinshu" due to its collection of historic temples, including Anrakuji Temple with its octagonal three-story pagoda, the only one of its kind in Japan and designated as a National Treasure. The area also houses several other Important Cultural Properties, including structures at Kitamuki Kannon and Jorakuji Temple, all within walking distance of the station.

Visitors can experience traditional public bathhouses, with several historic onsen establishments offering day-use bathing for typically ¥150-500. The stone-paved streets retain an atmosphere of old Japan, and many travelers combine their visit with exploration of the nearby temples and sampling local soba noodles, a Nagano specialty. The station area also provides access to hiking trails leading into the surrounding mountains.

The station is reached via the Ueda Electric Railway from Ueda Station, which connects to the Hokuriku Shinkansen bullet train line. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes and costs around ¥590 one way. The railway offers a nostalgic experience with some vintage train cars still in operation. Day passes for unlimited rides on the Bessho Line are available for ¥1,500. From Tokyo, the total journey time is approximately two and a half hours including transfers at Ueda Station.