Shirahone Onsen; Baikoan
Matsumoto, Nagano, Japan
- Location
- Matsumoto, Nagano, Japan
- Water type
- bicarbonate
- Temperature
- 40 °C
- pH
- 8
Water profile
Thermicity
Sedative
LowHigh
Relaxing — deep, immediate muscle release.
Mineralisation
Restorative
LowHigh
Loaded with major ions — the essential minerals (Ca, Mg).
Buoyancy
Standard buoyancy
LowHigh
Soft water — natural, classic buoyancy.
BicarbonatesSodiumCalcium
Baikoan is an onsen establishment in Shirahone, part of Matsumoto city (Nagano prefecture). Its bicarbonate waters, heated to 40°C, are offered in an indoor bath and an outdoor rotenburo bath, alongside a sauna for relaxation.
Insider tip — Baikoan serves the famous Shirahone Onsen, one of Japan most celebrated milky-white carbonate springs where calcium bicarbonate water turns opaque white on contact with air. Traditional lore holds that bathing at Shirahone for three days protects against colds and flu for three years, and the spring village hidden in the Northern Alps gorge between Matsumoto and Norikura produces an atmosphere of genuine mountain thermal seclusion among the most photogenic in Nagano.
Nearby
Frequently asked questions
How hot is the water?
The water runs quite hot here, around 40 °C — a sedative water that brings immediate muscle release.
What type of water is found here?
This spot features bicarbonate water.
What is the best season to visit?
The most favourable period for this spot is: Toute l'année.