Hirugami Onsen, a serene hot spring area nestling in the heart of Nagano Prefecture, is a hidden gem awaiting discovery. The area is renowned for its relaxing, alkaline-rich thermal waters, believed to have healing properties for skin ailments. Its seclusion amidst the Southern Alps, often referred to as the ‘Roof of Japan’, provides a stark contrast to the bustling city life, offering visitors a serene retreat enveloped by stunning mountainous landscape.
As a symbol of authentic rural Japan, Hirugami Onsen boasts not only of its therapeutic waters but also its cultural richness. The area is dotted with ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the local lifestyle, with tatami mat rooms, communal baths, and kaiseki-style meals. Seasonal activities such as snow festivals in winter, and fruit picking in summer, provide travellers a myriad of ways to engage with the local culture and environment.
