One of the most enjoyable aspects of travel is the local cuisine, the spectacular scenery that changes with the seasons, and of course, the hot springs! Did you know that there are many hot springs in eastern Japan that are called "ji-onsen," or "local hot springs," and have been loved by local people for a long time? Once used as therapeutic hot spring baths, and even today there are many hot spring resorts that continue to heal people. We will introduce the charms of "local hot springs" that warm the body and soul in the form of an interview!
What is "Yumori"?
The word "yumori" means "guardian of hot spring water. In other words, a "yumori" is a caretaker of a hot spring. They are in charge of controlling the amount and temperature of the hot water. The traditional hot spring baths that have taken root in each area and are the pride of the yumori of the "local hot springs" introduced in this project have been protected by them throughout their long history.
Shirakone Onsen Yumoto Saito Ryokan is a famous hot spring in Matsumoto, Nagano.
In this 30th installment of our series "Ask a Yumori-no-Mori-no-Ichi-Onsen (Hot Springs)," we introduce Yumoto Saito Ryokan in Nagano Prefecture. We interviewed Mr. Saito, the Yumori-no-Saito (guardian of hot spring baths). Mr. Saito, Yumamori
Shirakone Onsen is located at a good distance from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Shirakone Onsen, where Yumoto Saito Ryokan is located, is a well-known and popular hot spring resort.
Mr. Saito, the Yumoto Ryokan's guardian Shirakone Onsen is located on the west side of Matsumoto City, at the foot of Norikura-dake (Mt. Norikura) in the southern area of the Northern Japan Alps. In midwinter, the mountains of Shirakone look like an ink painting, and visitors can enjoy a snow bath while gazing at the mountains. This is a hot spring resort that has been used as a therapeutic hot spring since ancient times, and has the feel of a traditional, secluded hot spring. Kamikochi, a famous scenic spot, is located nearby, and during the green season, many visitors combine their visit with a trip to Kamikochi. Exterior view of Yumoto Saito Ryokan
Yumoto Saito Ryokan is located in Shirakone Onsen in Matsumoto City, which is rich in nature and relaxing.
Yumori Saito-san I think it is located at a good distance from the hustle and bustle of the city. I feel that the accessibility, which is not always convenient, plays a role in helping people escape from their daily lives. Bath in Sukezanso Special Room
If you stay in Shirakone Onsen for three days, you will not catch a cold for three years. History and Benefits of "Shirakone Onsen
Please tell us about the history of Shirakone Onsen.
Yumori-Saito-san Shirakone Onsen was recognized by people on the street as having boiling water in the Kamakura period (1185-1333). We are the only hotel in Shirakone that uses hot spring water that has been boiling since that time.
You can enjoy a hot spring that has existed since the Kamakura period. What are the benefits of "Shirakone Onsen" with such a long history?
Yu Mamoru Mr. Saito "If you stay in the hot spring for three days, you will not catch a cold for three years," as they say. The water contains high levels of sulfur and carbonic acid, which dilates blood vessels and warms the body from the core.
Shirakone Onsen is great for winter! Are there any other unique features of Yumoto Saito Ryokan?
Yumori-Saito-san The fact that the spring water is free-flowing (with heating) is also an attraction. The fact that you can drink the spring water is also appreciated by many customers. Open-air bath "Onigajo Shirakone Onsen is characterized by the fact that the water, which was originally clear and colorless, changes to a milky white color. The secret of the color change of the hot water is introduced in the following article, so please take a look♪
Yumoto Saito Ryokan has several hot springs within the hotel.
Yu Mamoru Saito-san In addition to the private baths, we have three types of baths: "Ryujin-no-yu", "Yakushi no Yu", and "Onigajo". The "Ryujin-no-yu" and "Yakushi-no-yu" baths are large bathhouses constructed of hinoki cypress woodwork. Ryujin no Yu Yumamori Saito-san The "Onigajo" bath, an open-air bath, is a reproduction of a therapeutic bathhouse, and is a hot spring where you can take a single towel and casually soak. Why not ponder the history of Shirakone Onsen, which has been around since the Kamakura period (1185-1333)? Open-air bath "Onigajo
Do you have any recommendations on how to use the hot springs?
Yumori-Saito-san In the winter season, enjoy the Yukimi-buro (snow viewing bath). Bathing in the deep snow is full of indescribable elegance. In midwinter, please warm yourself in the large bath and then take an open-air bath. In spring, spring in Shirakone is after Golden Week, and there will still be snow on the mountainside until mid-April, so please enjoy the snowy scenery.
High-quality ingredients are the pride of our meals.
What kind of ingredients are used in the dishes served at the inn?
Yumori Saito-san Our ingredients are mainly from Shinshu. In terms of fish, we serve river fish dishes such as sashimi of char, Shinshu salmon, Shinano snow trout, etc. We also serve seasonal vegetables and mushrooms. You can also enjoy seasonal vegetables, mushrooms, Shinshu Koshihikari rice, and Shinshu miso. We do not have any specialties, but the high quality of our ingredients is something that can only be found in Shinshu. Winter dinner image
It is one of the best parts of traveling to be able to enjoy the unique local ingredients. I understand that the famous "onsen porridge" is served at breakfast!
Yumori Saito-san Yes, the breakfast specialty is "onsen gruel," a flavorful porridge cooked with hot water drawn from the source of the hot spring. It is said that it was first served to Touji guests. Breakfast (image)
Finally, please tell us about your commitment to Yumori and your message to our guests.
Yumamori Saito-san Please come and experience the genuine hot spring water that has been boiling since the Kamakura period (1185-1333). You can enjoy Shirakone Onsen in any season, as it has the qualities of all four seasons. Personally, I recommend the season when you can feel the breath of fresh green. Kaisanso Special Room
Get out of your daily routine and enjoy Shirakotsu Onsen at Yumoto Saito Ryokan!
What did you think? In this issue, we asked Mr. Saito, the bath guardian, about "Yumoto Saito Ryokan" in Shirakotsu Onsen, Nagano Prefecture, in detail. Why don't you leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind and spend a relaxing time in Nagano's nature?
Let's combine your favorite train and lodging to save money!
You can make your own original trip!
The " JR East View Dynamic Rail Package " is a variable-price individual travel product sold exclusively through the Internet that allows you to freely select a train and accommodations and make a reservation at once. Depending on the timing and conditions of your reservation, you may be able to save even on the day of departure at the earliest! We also offer one-day trip plans! Enjoy your own unique trip according to your schedule and purpose.
Please enjoy a luxurious time surrounded by nature at Lamp Inn Takamine Onsen! Please look forward to the next installment. If you would like to know more about "Ji-onsen," please click the link below.JR East HP "Places and Onsen"
