Shima Onsen
A remote, mist-filled mountain onsen town said to have inspired the setting of Spirited Away — a narrow valley with ryokan stacked up both sides above a rushing river, cable cars crossing between inn buildings, and a communal bath (Kashiwaya-no-yu) in the forest that has been used for 1,300 years.
1 night recommended
Ryokan from ¥15,000/night
Village accessible year-round; ryokan day baths: typically 12:00–15:00 (call ahead)
Year-round (winter snow is most Spirited Away-like)
Bus from Nakanojo Station (JR Agatsuma Line, 30 min)
Location
Why Visit
- 1
Said to be one of the inspirations for Spirited Away's Aburaya bathhouse — valley and architecture match
- 2
Kashiwaya-no-yu communal bath is free and has been open continuously for 1,300 years
- 3
The valley ryokan are accessible only by footbridge — no cars beyond the entrance
Local Tips
Shima Onsen is said to be the model for the bathhouse in Spirited Away — the mountain-valley setting with traditional ryokan buildings over the Nakatsu River has a strong connection to the Ghibli visual aesthetic. The public bath Machiyazawa is the most accessible for day visitors. Combine with Nagatoro Gorge and Chichibu for a Saitama/Gunma outdoor day.
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