Relaxing Trip to the Popular Shirahone Onsen! 5 Recommended Hot Springs and Sightseeing Spots

This time, we will introduce recommended sightseeing spots around Shirahone Onsen, located in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture.
Shirahone Onsen offers a variety of attractions where you can fully enjoy Nagano’s magnificent nature and experience the traditional culture of the hot spring town.

Surrounded by lush greenery and the Yukawa Valley, it is not only a relaxing hot spring destination but also a famous tourist spot.
We’ve carefully selected 5 must-visit sightseeing spots around the charming Shirahone Onsen, which attracts many visitors.

We hope this guide helps you plan your trip to Shirahone Onsen!

What is Shirahone Onsen?

Shirahone Onsen, pronounced "Shirahone Onsen," is a hot spring located in Azumi, Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, at the foot of the Northern Alps.

Its proximity to famous destinations like Kamikochi and Norikura Highlands makes it well-known and popular across Japan.

The soft milky white water is mildly acidic, gentle on the skin, and is even drinkable. Drinking the water is said to promote blood flow to the digestive system and relieve constipation.

There are many traditional inns (ryokan) around the area, along with day-use hot spring facilities for those who prefer a quick visit.
Nagano Prefecture is filled with natural attractions and historical sites like Matsumoto Castle, making it a great travel destination.

After sightseeing, relaxing at Shirahone Onsen is highly recommended.

Surrounded by the natural beauty of Shinshu and the gentle hot spring waters, both your body and mind will be fully refreshed, making it a truly satisfying healing trip.

1. Zuitoushi & Kansuikei

One of the must-visit spots in Shirahone Onsen is Zuitoushi & Kansuikei, where you can enjoy the stunning natural scenery of the area.

"Zuitoushi" is a tunnel about 6 meters high and 20 meters long, naturally formed as the Yukawa River eroded the limestone. Many tourists visit to see this spectacular natural sight.

Nearby is Kansuikei, a stream where you can witness the powerful flow of water. Walking paths are available, so you can enjoy a leisurely stroll while admiring Shirahone Onsen's beautiful landscape.

If you're looking for scenic spots to visit, this is highly recommended!

2. Ryujin Waterfall (Ryujin no Taki)

A short walk from the Shirahone Onsen Tourist Center brings you to Ryujin Waterfall. The sight of water flowing smoothly over moss-covered rocks creates a mystical and enchanting view.

During the snowmelt season, the mix of green and white adds extra beauty, making it a perfect seasonal spot.
It is also known as a hidden power spot, attracting many visitors who seek healing energy.

Legend says that water flows through countless holes in the limestone like threads, which led people to believe that a water god resides here—hence the name Ryujin Waterfall.

It’s perfect for those wanting to forget daily fatigue and be healed by nature.

3. 33 Kannon Statues (Sanjusan Kannon)

Shirahone Onsen has a legend: "If you bathe for three days, you won't catch a cold for three years."

The 33 Kannon statues, built during the Edo period, were created by visitors from Ina Valley, Mikawa, and Hida regions who were drawn by Shirahone Onsen's healing powers.

Located near Ryujin Waterfall, it’s perfect to visit both sites together.

The gentle expressions of the Jizo statues offer a sense of peace and warmth.

While some statues have weathered over time, making faces and inscriptions hard to see, this spot is rich in history and atmosphere.

4. Funtokyu & Spherical Limestone (Funtokyu / Kyujou Sekkaigan)

Shirahone Onsen is a historic hot spring rich in calcium carbonate. Over time, the mineral deposits created Funtokyu, a mound of sediment formed where the hot spring water gushes out.

This rare natural formation is designated as a National Natural Monument.
Covered in snow during winter, it offers a different kind of beauty worth seeing.

This spot is perfect for travelers who appreciate unique natural scenery.

5. Yakushido Hall

One of the tourist spots where you can feel the traditional atmosphere and historical significance of Shirahone Onsen is Yakushido Hall.
The enshrined Yakushi Nyorai, also known as the Buddha of Medicine or Healing Buddha, has been worshipped by many visitors praying for good health.

Yakushido was built during the Edo period and continues to be loved by many tourists and locals today.

It is highly recommended for those who want to visit historical sites around Shirahone Onsen.
Be sure to stop by!

◎ Summary

We have introduced Shirahone Onsen in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, along with 5 recommended sightseeing spots.

Shirahone Onsen offers many other attractions worth visiting and enjoying.

With its fresh Nagano air, magnificent natural landscapes, and the mysteries created over the years, Shirahone Onsen is full of places to explore.
Come visit Shirahone Onsen, immerse yourself in the lush greenery, forget about everyday life, and refresh your mind and body.

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Relaxing Trip to the Popular Shirahone Onsen! 5 Recommended Hot Springs and Sightseeing Spots