Shibu Onsen, Shimotakai district (photo)

Yamanouchi Japan, a historical onsen village or hot springs area with natural public and private baths. Visitors can stroll from one bath to another wearing japanese clog slippers and traditional robes. Shibu Onsen (渋温泉) is a historic and attractive hot spring town in Yamanouchi, which has retained a traditional atmosphere. Nestled in a small valley, Shibu Onsen is spread out on a gentle slope beside the Yokoyugawa River, with Yudanaka Onsen located below and the Jigokudani Monkey Park above. During its long history, the area has been visited for its hot spring water by a lot of people, including priests, samurai and poets. Some of the ryokan (Japanese style inns) that line Shibu's narrow streets, date back over 400 years, adding greatly to Shibu's atmosphere. Guests of the ryokan are encouraged to take a stroll around town in the traditional onsen clothing of yukata robes and geta sandals. One incentive to walk around the town is to make use of the public bath houses, of which there are nine. The public baths are locked and, except for one, accessible only to locals and overnight guests, who are provided with a master key by their ryokan. The bath houses are small and gender-separated, and the baths themselves are quite simple. The bath houses are numbered, but also have special names and cure different ailments.