The first of nine public bathhouses in Shibu Onsen, Yamanouchi Town, Nagano Prefecture. This historic hot spring was discovered approximately 1,300 years ago during the Nara period by the Buddhist monk Gyoki, who is said to have washed his alms bowl here, giving it the nickname 'Hachiyu' (Bowl Bath). Starting from this bath is considered the proper order for the 'Kyu-to Meguri' (Nine Bath Pilgrimage). The water quality is sodium-calcium sulfate-chloride hot spring with a slightly acidic pH of around 4.3. The source temperature is 65°C, and it is known as the 'Stomach Bath' for its beneficial effects on the digestive system. Shibu Onsen boasts 37 hot spring sources, and during the Edo period, notable figures such as Shozan Sakuma, Issa Kobayashi, and Hokusai Katsushika visited this famous spa. The public baths are exclusive to overnight guests who receive keys from their ryokan. Pilgrims collect stamps on a prayer towel at each bath, and completing all nine baths followed by a visit to Shibu Takayakushi Temple fulfills their wishes.