Maruko Onsen features sodium-chloride-sulfate spring water that reaches temperatures between 50-60 degrees Celsius. The mineral composition is traditionally believed to help with circulation issues, muscle pain, and skin conditions. The waters have a slightly saline quality due to their chemical makeup.
Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Ueda Station, which takes approximately 90 minutes. From Ueda Station, board a local bus on the Maruko Line for a 20-minute ride to the village. If driving, take the Joshinetsu Expressway and exit at Sakaki IC, then continue about 15 kilometers to reach the village.
Yes, day-use bathing is widely available throughout Maruko Onsen Village. Public bathhouses like Dai-yu charge between 300-500 yen for admission, while ryokan facilities offering day-use access typically cost 1,000-2,000 yen. Most facilities operate during daytime and early evening hours for day visitors.
Yes, most public bathhouses expect visitors to bring their own towels following traditional onsen customs. However, small towels are usually available for purchase at the facilities for a few hundred yen if you arrive without one. Some ryokan day-use packages may include towel rental in their fee.
The village is located near Bessho Onsen, another historic hot spring area, and is within easy reach of Ueda's cultural sites including temples from the feudal period. The Chikuma River valley offers seasonal natural scenery, and the broader Ueda area features historical connections to the Sanada clan and their castle ruins.
