Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Bessho Onsen is a historic hot spring resort in Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture. It has long been popular as a therapeutic hot spring resort in Shinano, and the surrounding area is a tranquil hot spring town dotted with ancient temples and historical sites. Its greatest feature is that you can enjoy both the atmosphere of a hot spring and visiting temples and shrines at the same time. With ancient temples such as Kitamuki Kannon (Kitamuki Kannon Hall) and Anrakuji Temple nearby, the culture of combining pilgrimages with therapeutic hot spring treatments has taken root. Other attractions include the charming stone-paved streets, the therapeutic hot spring culture of inns, and the natural scenery of each season (cherry blossoms in spring, autumn leaves in autumn, and snowy winter scenery).
Highlights
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Kitamuki Kannon (Kitamuki Kannon Hall)
It is famous for being a "Kannon Hall facing north" and is considered a worship site that rivals Zenkoji Temple (Nagano City). The approach to the temple, lined with shops and souvenir stores, is also very picturesque. -
Anrakuji Temple
This old temple has many must-see attractions, including a three-story pagoda within its grounds. You can enjoy the historical architecture and the tranquil atmosphere (please check the opening hours and availability). -
Stroll around the hot spring town
Take a leisurely stroll through the hot spring town lined with stone-paved streets and traditional inns. There are also footbath spots and public baths scattered around, so you can easily enjoy a soak. -
Public baths and inn baths
The quality of the spring water varies depending on the facility, with some facilities offering iron-containing springs and others offering simple springs, and many of them offer a sense of the ancient culture of hot spring therapy. Some facilities also offer day-trip bathing (check opening hours and fees at each facility). -
Seasonal nature and photo spots
Cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in early summer, autumn leaves, and snowy scenery - each season has its own charm, and the contrast between the temples and shrines and nature creates a beautiful landscape.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Railway
From Ueda Station (JR and Hokuriku Shinkansen stops), take the Ueda Electric Railway Bessho Line to Bessho Onsen Station. The journey takes about 25 minutes from Ueda Station (please check the timetable in advance as there are limited trains). From Bessho Onsen Station, it is just a few minutes' walk to the hot spring town. - car
Access is via national and prefectural roads from Ueda Sugadaira IC on the Joshinetsu Expressway. There are public parking lots and parking lots for guests of the inn, but they may fill up on consecutive holidays and weekends, so we recommend checking in advance and arriving early. - Long-distance access guide
From Tokyo, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Ueda Station, then transfer to Ueda Electric Railway to Bessho Onsen (approximately 1-1.5 hours by Shinkansen, plus 25 minutes on the Bessho Line). Local buses and taxis are also available.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip to visit hot springs, lunch, and stroll: 2-4 hours (if using 1-2 public baths and foot baths)
- A relaxing overnight stay (dinner, morning bath, temple and shrine visits): We recommend a two-day, one-night stay. You can enjoy the atmosphere of the hot spring town at night and the tranquility of the morning.
- Take your time, including visiting temples and shrines and sightseeing in the surrounding area: 1-2 nights
Nearby spots
- Ueda Castle (Ueda City Center) — The ruins of a castle associated with the Sanada clan, with a park and museum, making it an easy place to visit.
- Sanada-related historical sites and museums — plenty to see for history buffs
- Kakeyu Onsen (another nearby hot spring resort) — There are other hot spring resorts within driving distance, so you can enjoy hot spring hopping.
- Nearby hiking trails and nature spots — There are many places where you can enjoy the scenery of mountains and streams
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion
Ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) and public baths tend to be crowded on weekends, consecutive holidays (Golden Week, Obon, New Year's), and during peak tourist seasons. If you are planning to stay overnight, make your reservation early, and if you are planning to use the baths for day trips, try to avoid rush hour traffic. - Onsen Manners
Do not pour water over yourself or stir the water before bathing (use soap in designated areas at the washing areas), and be careful not to bathe for long periods of time or after drinking alcohol. Some facilities will refuse bathing to those with tattoos, so if you have any concerns, please inquire beforehand. - Feet and clothing
We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes as there are cobblestone streets and slopes. In winter, the roads can be icy and snowy, so you'll need to wear warm clothes and anti-slip shoes. - Payment and sales information
Some small inns and shops only accept cash or do not accept credit cards, so it's a good idea to have some cash on hand. Be sure to check the opening hours, holidays, and day-trip bathing availability of each facility in advance. - Environmental conservation and local considerations
This is a quiet hot spring town. Please refrain from shouting at night or causing a nuisance by parking, and follow local rules and the instructions of staff.
Bessho Onsen is a tranquil hot spring resort where hot springs and the atmosphere of an ancient temple are in harmony. You can enjoy the atmosphere even with a short stroll, but you can enjoy it even more by staying at an inn and enjoying the hot springs in the morning and evening and the quietness of the night. Please check the latest information on each facility (opening hours, bathing availability, reservations) before visiting.
