Shika no Yu (Shikanoyu)
Experience over 1,300 years of history at Shika no Yu, one of Japan's oldest and most revered traditional hot springs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Shika no Yu (Shikanoyu)
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience over 1,300 years of history at Shika no Yu, one of Japan's oldest and most revered traditional hot springs.
"This onsen has over 1,300 years of history, with four baths ranging from 41°C to 44°C — I loved the 43°C bath, perfectly warm and soothing!"
Bring Your Own Towel
Towel rental is available, but bringing your own is recommended. No shampoo/body wash provided! :wash_hands:
Embrace the Natural Water
The silky white sulfur water is known for its healing properties. Just rinse and soak! :dropofwater:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Hot Spring Baths
Main bathing halls
Experience over 1,300 years of history in these traditional baths with silky, white sulfur water.
Varied Temperature Pools
Bathing halls
Choose from multiple pools, with temperatures ranging from a soothing 41°C to a very hot 48°C.
Scenic Water Paths
Surrounding grounds
Enjoy tranquil walks along picturesque paths that wind alongside the water features.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History
Pack Smart for Your Soak
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Own Towel
Towel rental is available, but bringing your own is recommended. No shampoo/body wash provided! :wash_hands:
Embrace the Natural Water
The silky white sulfur water is known for its healing properties. Just rinse and soak! :dropofwater:
Explore Different Temps
With baths from 41°C to 48°C, find your perfect level of heat. :thermometer:
Enjoy the Historic Ambiance
Appreciate the majestic atmosphere and over 1,300 years of history. :classical_building:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Own Towel
Towel rental is available, but bringing your own is recommended. No shampoo/body wash provided! :wash_hands:
Embrace the Natural Water
The silky white sulfur water is known for its healing properties. Just rinse and soak! :dropofwater:
Explore Different Temps
With baths from 41°C to 48°C, find your perfect level of heat. :thermometer:
Enjoy the Historic Ambiance
Appreciate the majestic atmosphere and over 1,300 years of history. :classical_building:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shika no Yu is lauded for its incredible history and authentic, traditional onsen experience. Visitors rave about the silky, healing waters and the inexpensive entry fee, making it a must-visit for those seeking a genuine taste of Japan's oldest hot springs. Some note the lack of provided amenities like shampoo and the need to bring your own towel.
"Relaxing at Shika-no-yu, the legendary hot spring in Nasu Onsen ♨️
Always my go-to spot after a hike in the Nasu mountains 🏔️✨
This onsen has over 1,300 years of history, with four baths ranging from 41°C to 44°C — I loved the 43°C bath, perfectly warm and soothing🔥
The silky white sulfur water melts away all the fatigue, leaving pure relaxation 🫧"
KIICHIRO KOBORI
"The baths have a majestic atmosphere with a sense of history. So impressive to actually be able to use the baths instead of just seeing them as a tourist attraction! Moreover, the baths are very inexpensive. I highly recommend stopping by here!"
Rintaro
"Do bring along your towel. If not, you can buy it from the counter. It's different from the sento I usually went to, and there's no shampoo or body wash provided.
Just rinse your body, and you can go into the onsen.
Very nostalgic."
Wayne Toh Bun Chin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Shika no Yu from Tokyo, take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Utsunomiya Station, then transfer to the JR Nikko Line for Nikko Station. From Nikko, you can take a bus towards Yumoto Onsen, which stops near Shika no Yu. Alternatively, direct buses from Shinjuku or Tokyo Station to Nasu Onsen are also available. Check bus schedules in advance as they can vary.
Yes, parking is generally available at Shika no Yu, which is convenient if you are traveling by car. It's advisable to check the specific parking situation during peak seasons or holidays.
If you're in the Nasu area, local buses are the most common way to reach Shika no Yu. Many routes connect the main tourist spots to the Nasu Onsen area. Taxis are also an option for a quicker, though more expensive, journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Shika no Yu typically operates from morning until early evening. Specific hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date times before your visit.
Entry to Shika no Yu is known for being very inexpensive, making it an accessible historical experience. The exact price is subject to change, but it's generally a small fee for a significant historical soak.
Advance booking is usually not required for Shika no Yu, as it's a public bathhouse. You can typically pay the entrance fee upon arrival. However, during very busy periods, it's always wise to confirm if any special arrangements are needed.
Yes, Shika no Yu features multiple bathtubs for both men and women, with varying temperatures. You can choose from pools ranging from 41°C to 48°C to find your preferred level of heat.
The water at Shika no Yu is a silky white sulfur water, renowned for its historical healing and healthy properties. It's a pure onsen experience without added amenities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's essential to bring your own towel, as they are not provided. You'll also want to bring any personal toiletries like shampoo or body wash, as these are not available at the facility.
Shika no Yu offers a more traditional onsen experience, meaning shampoo and body wash are not provided. You are expected to rinse your body before entering the baths.
Shika no Yu offers a range of temperatures, from 41°C to 48°C. While some baths are very hot, you can choose the cooler options if you prefer. It's always good to test the water temperature before fully immersing yourself.
The atmosphere at Shika no Yu is majestic and steeped in history, offering a sense of nostalgia and tradition. It's a place where you can truly feel the ancient roots of Japanese hot spring culture.
Yes, Shika no Yu provides changing rooms for guests. Lockers are usually available to store your belongings securely while you enjoy the baths.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally not permitted inside the bathing areas of Shika no Yu to respect the privacy of other bathers. However, you may be able to take photos of the exterior and surrounding scenic paths.
The scenic paths along the water and the traditional architecture of the onsen building itself offer great photo opportunities. Capture the serene atmosphere and the natural beauty of the surroundings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific kid-focused amenities, the novelty of a historic bathhouse can be engaging. The surrounding scenic paths also offer a pleasant, gentle walk for families. Remember to pack extra towels and any necessary bathing items for your children to ensure a comfortable visit.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Tranquility
Embrace the simplicity of the experience: rinse, soak, and relax. The historical ambiance provides a unique backdrop for introspection, and the therapeutic waters are perfect for easing travel fatigue. Remember to bring your own towel and toiletries to fully enjoy this ancient retreat.
🏞️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Many visitors describe it as their 'go-to spot after a hike.' The silky white sulfur water is particularly effective at melting away fatigue, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Don't forget to bring a towel and any personal items you might need for a complete post-adventure soak.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ancient Roots of Shika no Yu
Unlike modern, resort-style onsen, Shika no Yu prioritizes a pure and authentic experience. The silky white sulfur water is celebrated for its therapeutic properties, believed to soothe fatigue and promote well-being. This focus on natural healing, combined with the historical significance, creates a unique and profound bathing experience that resonates with those seeking a deeper connection to Japanese culture.
Visitors often remark on the 'majestic atmosphere' and the feeling of being able to 'use the baths instead of just seeing them as a tourist attraction.' This sentiment highlights the value of Shika no Yu as an active historical site, rather than a passive museum piece. It's a place to actively participate in a tradition that has endured for over a millennium.
Navigating the Baths: Temperature and Amenities
It's crucial to note that Shika no Yu offers a minimalist, traditional onsen experience. This means that amenities like shampoo, conditioner, and body wash are not provided. Guests are expected to bring their own if they wish to use them. Similarly, towels are not automatically given; you can purchase one or bring your own. This approach emphasizes the purity of the water and the natural bathing process.
Before entering the baths, a thorough rinse is customary and expected. This practice helps maintain the cleanliness of the hot spring water. The absence of modern amenities contributes to the nostalgic and authentic feel of the place, allowing visitors to focus on the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich water and the historical ambiance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit