【Strolling the Hot Spring Town】An invitation to "Motoyu Ryokan Daikokuya" where the Showa era lingers vividly in Shimobe Onsen.

I became interested in the scenery of Shimobe Onsen in Yamanashi Prefecture, which retains a Showa-era atmosphere, and I drove my beloved car while exploring the town. I also enjoyed the hot springs at a historic ryokan.

Showa still lingers vividly! To the hot spring town of Shimobe

Shimobe Onsen is a hot spring town located in Yamanashi Prefecture. The hot spring known as "Takeda Shingen's hidden bath" is a specialty, and it is said to be the place where Takeda Shingen and his soldiers came to heal their wounds. The small hot spring town nestled in the mountains still retains the scenery of the Showa era, which is why I came seeking its retro atmosphere.

Along the road leading to the hot spring town flows the beautiful Shimobe River, and a unique charm can be felt. It has a hidden, cozy atmosphere created in the mountain valley, and as I stroll along, I am excited to see what kind of scenery awaits.

True to its name as a hidden bath, the quiet atmosphere is nice. There are many small alleys, and there were numerous buildings that would appeal to those seeking Showa retro.

Minobu Town, where Shimobe Onsen is located, is the sacred site of the anime "Yuru Camp△", but there aren't many places that convey such an ambiance, leaving an impression of maintaining its historical hot spring town atmosphere. While walking the streets during my visit, I encountered only a few people, likely locals. Since I was looking for a local vibe, I'm glad I came here.

The half bell used during disaster prevention was still remaining. There are spots of rust that give a sense of age, but it remains in a condition that seems to still be active today. When I see these Showa-era heritage items, it feels like I've come to a place with a different flow of time than where I live, and I get a sense of being on a journey.

Enjoying hot springs at "Motoyu Ryokan Daikokuya"

There are several ryokans in Shimobe Onsen that offer day-use baths, and among them, I asked "Motoyu Ryokan Daikokuya" for a photo shoot because of the atmosphere inside and the view from the bath.

From the bath, you can gaze at the beautiful flowing Shimobe River, creating an atmosphere that allows you to truly feel connected with nature.

A major feature of Daikokuya and Shimobe Onsen is the enjoyment of the "warm water" from a spring at around 30 degrees and the heated "hot water", with the basic way of enjoying it being to alternate between the two. The water quality is classified as "alkaline simple sulfur spring," and it is a soft-textured water that thoroughly heals the body.

The hallways inside have a retro design, evoking the atmosphere of history reminiscent of old dramas and movies. The unique smells and tranquility of the ryokan create a space that encourages different thoughts, making it perfect for forgetting daily fatigue and worries.

I heard from the owner that Daikokuya was established in the early Showa era. Like the historic hot spring district, it has an atmospheric presence and seems to be the perfect space for travelers who want to experience the Showa ambiance.

The author is not fond of places that are crowded with tourists, but I had a restorative time flowing with tranquility at Shimobe Onsen, which has charm and a peaceful atmosphere.

I think it is an ideal spot for those who want to experience a simple and nostalgic atmosphere or who enjoy solo traveling. If you are tired from daily work, why not take a trip there?

Motoyu Ryokan Daikokuya
Location: 56 Shimobe, Minobu Town, Minamikoma District, Yamanashi Prefecture
TEL: 0556-36-0031
Business Hours (Day-use Bathing): 10 AM - 4 PM (Last reception at 3 PM)
Fee: Within 2 hours: 1000 yen

Reporting and text by Kazuma Tanaka

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