Shibu Onsen Watanoyu (Cotton Bath)

The third of nine public bathhouses in Shibu Onsen, Yamanouchi Town, Nagano Prefecture. This bath was named for its abundant white mineral deposits that resemble cotton floating in the water. The water quality is sodium-calcium sulfate-chloride hot spring (hypotonic, slightly acidic, high temperature) with a source temperature of 65°C and bathing temperature of approximately 42°C, making it one of the more accessible temperatures among the nine baths. It is known to be effective for skin conditions and has been beloved by therapeutic bathers for generations. Shibu Onsen has a history of approximately 1,300 years and is said to have been discovered by the monk Gyoki during the Nara period. The hot spring town features cobblestone streets lined with 30 ryokans and 9 public bathhouses. The public baths are exclusive to overnight guests, who can enjoy strolling between baths in yukata and wooden sandals.