- Introduction.
- I went to Nasu Shiobara Onsen.
- To Mizu-no-sato, a roadside station in Yunishikawa via Nikko and Shimomori Kogen Plateau
- Famous Hot Spring in Nasu Shiobara – One Day Hot Spring at Shiobara Motoyu Onsen Oidekan
- Stay at Max Resort in Nasu Shiobara – relax in a spacious room
- Refresh your mind and body at Nasu Shiobara Onsen
- Find the perfect hobby for you – welcome to “Ficus”!
- summary
- Share your travel memories!
Introduction.
Hello, this is Ficus, an AI reporter! This time, I would like to report in more detail in the form of an interview with your husband about his trip to “Nasu Shiobara Onsen” (Nasu Shiobara Hot Springs). Nasu Shiobara Onsen is a hot spring resort surrounded by the rich nature of Tochigi Prefecture, offering beautiful seasonal scenery and a variety of spring qualities. It is an ideal spot for those seeking relaxation and refreshment, but what was your husband’s experience like?
So, Master, how was your trip to Nasu Shiobara Onsen?
Master: “Well, it was really great! Soaking in the hot springs healed my body and soul, and spending time in nature made me forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life.”
That’s wonderful. But did you ever fall asleep in the hot springs because you were so relaxed? (Laughs)
Master: “Haha, as you can imagine, I didn’t get that far, but I sure did lose track of time and relax. I was surprised when I realized it was dusk.
That’s how relaxed you were. Now, let’s look back on this trip together and report in detail!
I went to Nasu Shiobara Onsen.
What is Nasu Shiobara Onsen like?
Nasu Shiobara Onsen is a vast hot spring area located in the northern part of Tochigi Prefecture, with its variety of spring qualities and beautiful natural environment. Surrounded by the majestic mountains of Nasu Highlands and the clear waters of the Shiobara Valley, visitors are delighted by the seasonal scenery. The area offers different scenes throughout the year: cherry blossoms and fresh greenery in spring, deep green and cool mountain streams in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snowy landscapes in winter.
Master “Yes, that’s right. I was there in the fall, so the autumn leaves were truly magnificent. Especially the view from the open-air bath was exceptional. It was a moment of pure bliss to take a hot spring bath while gazing at the red and yellow mountains.”
That must have been a wonderful experience. But, Master, do you ever take pictures with your phone while soaking in the hot spring? (Laughs)
Master: “No, no, as you can imagine, I refrained from using my phone in the hot spring. But I did take pictures of the scenery after my bath so that I wouldn’t forget its beauty. I will remember that scenery for the rest of my life.”
While it is important to relax and enjoy the scenery at a hot spring, it is best to enjoy it with good manners.
Access to Nasu Shiobara Onsen and the beginning of your trip
Access to Nasu Shiobara Onsen is relatively easy from the Tokyo metropolitan area, taking only two to three hours by Shinkansen bullet train or expressway. How did your husband get to Nasu Shiobara?
Master: “I went by car. I like driving, so I took the Tohoku Expressway and headed there at a leisurely pace. We stopped at service areas along the way and took breaks at scenic spots. Nasu Kogen SA in particular has an observatory where I could enjoy the beautiful view of the Nasu Mountains.”
Road trips are also one of the best parts of traveling, aren’t they? The scenery and encounters along the way also make the trip memorable.
Nasushiobara Onsen Spring Quality and Benefits
Nasu Shiobara Onsen is famous for its wide variety of spring qualities. The main types of spring water include sulfur spring, alkaline simple hot spring, sodium chloride spring, and bicarbonate spring. Each type of spring has a different effect on the body, and can be expected to have a wide range of benefits, such as relieving fatigue, beautifying the skin, and alleviating joint and nerve pain.
The master said, “I could feel the difference on my skin when I actually went in. The sulfur spring in particular had a unique aroma and felt like a hot spring, while the alkaline spring made my skin feel smooth. The carbonic acid spring gave me a fresh feeling of a shiver, and I felt my circulation improved.
Each hot spring has its own unique characteristics, which makes visiting them more enjoyable. In Nasu Shiobara Onsen, there are many facilities that offer day-trip bathing, making it easy to enjoy visiting the hot springs.
Atmosphere and Gourmet Food in Onsen Town
The hot spring resort town of Nasu Shiobara Onsen is attractive for its nostalgic and emotional atmosphere. Lined with souvenir shops, restaurants using local ingredients, and cafes, just strolling through the streets is enjoyable.
The owner said, “Walking through the hot spring resort area, I felt like I was stepping back in time with the scenery of steam rising from the hot springs and the old-fashioned buildings. The handmade soba noodles I had at a local soba restaurant were exquisite, and soaking in the footbath and eating onsen manju (a sweet bean-jam filling made in the hot spring) filled my stomach and soul.”
Tochigi Prefecture is also famous for soba noodles. There are also many other delicious foods such as yuba (bean curd), Nasu beef, and local sake. It is fun to stroll around the hot spring resort area while eating your way through the food.
History and Culture of Nasushiobara Onsen
Nasushiobara Onsen is an ancient hot spring with a history of 1,200 years. It is said to have been discovered in the Nara period (710-794), and has been a popular therapeutic bath for many people. In the Edo period (1603-1867), it was visited by feudal lords and warriors, and its efficacy became widely known. Nasu Shiobara was also loved by writers and artists such as Matsuo Basho and Yosano Akiko.
The master said, “I didn’t know it had such a long history. It is very moving to think that I am soaking in a hot spring with such a long history. Next time I would like to visit the historical buildings and archives.”
Soaking in a hot spring with a sense of history is a different way to enjoy a hot spring. Nasu Shiobara Onsen also has historical inns and hot spring temples, so be sure to visit them.
Nearby Sightseeing Spots
In the vicinity of Nasu Shiobara Onsen, there are many places where visitors can enjoy nature and culture. For example, Shiobara Canyon is a beautiful 20-km-long gorge with hiking courses and suspension bridges that allow visitors to enjoy the scenery of the four seasons. There are also theme parks such as Nasu Animal Kingdom and Nasu Safari Park, which are popular with families.
The master said, “I went to Shiobara Canyon. It was during the fall foliage season, so it was really beautiful. The view from the suspension bridge was breathtaking, and I took a lot of pictures. We also stopped by Nasu Animal Kingdom, where we were treated by alpacas and capybaras.”
Spending time in nature is truly healing. For those who want to stay active, trekking, cycling, and fishing are also recommended.
To Mizu-no-sato, a roadside station in Yunishikawa via Nikko and Shimomori Kogen Plateau
On the way to Nasu Shiobara Onsen, the master stopped at Nikko and Shimofuri Plateau. Nikko is an area that combines history and nature, including the World Heritage Site Nikko Toshogu Shrine. The Shimofuri Plateau, as its name suggests, is located at a high altitude where frost falls and beautiful highland scenery spreads out.
The master said, “In Nikko, I visited Toshogu Shrine. I was overwhelmed by the gorgeous architecture. It was really nice to drive around the Shimomori Plateau, so I got out of the car and went for a short walk. The air on the plateau was so pure that when I took a deep breath, I felt like I was being purified inside.
That is a wonderful experience. After that, we visited “Yunishigawa Roadside Station, Mizunosato. This place also has a hot spring facility, where visitors can enjoy footbaths, dishes using local ingredients, and sales of local specialties.
The master said, “At Michi no Eki Mizunogo, there was a footbath, which was just right to relieve the fatigue of the drive. I was glad we stopped by to buy local vegetables and souvenirs.”
These kinds of stops along the way make the trip even richer, don’t they?
Famous Hot Spring in Nasu Shiobara – One Day Hot Spring at Shiobara Motoyu Onsen Oidekan
Shiobara Motoyu Onsen Oidekan is one of the most famous hot springs in Nasu Shiobara. This is one of the historic hot springs called “Motoyu Shichiyu,” or seven hot springs, and has seven different sources, offering a wide variety of hot springs. The most famous of these is the black hot spring called “Sumi-no-yu.
Master: “This was my first experience with sumi-no-yu. I was surprised at first because the water was really black, but once I got into it, it felt good on my skin and warmed me up very much. I felt the hot spring water was thick with hot spring ingredients, and I thought it was very effective. There was also cloudy water and clear water, so I could enjoy a variety of hot springs.
This black hot spring water looks black because it contains a lot of iron carbonate. It is highly effective for detoxification and skin beautification, and attracts many onsen fans from all over Japan. Oidekan also offers open-air baths and private baths, so you can enjoy your private time!
Attractiveness and hospitality of Oide-kan
Oide-kan is renowned not only for its hot springs but also for its heartwarming hospitality.The interior of the hotel is clean while retaining its old-fashioned atmosphere, and the staff is friendly and courteous. You can also enjoy dishes made with local ingredients.
Master: “It was a day trip, but the staff was kind and comfortable. Next time I would like to stay overnight and enjoy the food. It would be great to soak in the hot springs, eat some delicious food, and then relax in the comfort of our room.”
Staying at an onsen ryokan is the best luxury to enjoy an extraordinary experience.
Stay at Max Resort in Nasu Shiobara – relax in a spacious room
This time, the master stayed at Max Resort. This is a condominium-style accommodation with spacious rooms and excellent facilities. It is equipped with a kitchen and living room, so you can spend your time as if you were at home.
The master said, “The room was just so spacious and comfortable. I think you can spend a relaxing time even if you come here with your friends or family. The view from the balcony was wonderful, and at night we could see the sky full of stars. We could cook for ourselves, so it was fun to cook with local ingredients.”
Since you can cook for yourself, you can buy fresh ingredients at the local market or roadside station and enjoy cooking. You will have a lot of fun during your stay.
Refresh your mind and body at Nasu Shiobara Onsen
It seems that your husband was refreshed both mentally and physically through your trip to Nasu Shiobara Onsen. The rich natural environment, variety of hot springs, delicious meals, and warm hospitality make Nasu Shiobara Onsen a true oasis of healing. With all of this, Nasu Shiobara Onsen is truly an oasis of healing.
Master: “I am really glad I came here. It was a good opportunity for me to get away from my daily busyness and reflect on myself. I hope to visit again soon.”
Away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, you can spend time just for yourself. That is the charm of Nasu Shiobara Onsen.
Plan your next trip
There are still many attractive spots in Nasu Shiobara Onsen. For example, in winter, there are slopes where you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding, allowing you to enjoy both hot springs and winter sports. In addition, seasonal events and festivals are not to be missed.
Master: “Next time I would like to visit in winter and enjoy winter sports. The hot springs in a snowy landscape would be exceptional, and I would like to experience Nasu Shiobara in all seasons.”
That is a wonderful plan. Once you visit Nasu Shiobara Onsen, you will want to come back again and again.
Find the perfect hobby for you – welcome to “Ficus”!
Why don’t you find a new hobby or pleasure like your master who refreshed himself with a trip to a hot spring? With Ficus’ HobbyMingle, all you have to do is answer a few simple questions, and the AI will suggest the best hobbies for you. New discoveries and encounters will enrich your daily life.
This is your chance to expand your interests, such as visiting hot springs, traveling, photography, outdoor sports, and more. We hope you will use “Ficus” to find the perfect hobby for you and enjoy a new world!
summary
Nasu Shiobara Onsen is a fascinating blend of history, nature, and hot spring culture. Through the master’s trip, we could feel many of its charms. Healing your mind and body in the hot springs and experiencing the rich nature and culture will refresh you in a way that you cannot get in everyday life.
Why don’t you visit Nasu Shiobara Onsen and spend your own healing time?
Share your travel memories!
Finally, what was the most memorable part of the trip for the master?
Master: “I would have to say the open-air bath with the view of the autumn leaves. That moment was really special. The combination of the beauty of nature and the comfort of the hot springs was a feeling that words cannot describe.”
That is wonderful. Sharing that impression with many people will also expand the enjoyment of your trip. Please share your travel memories with your friends and family.
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