Shiramine Onsen

A hot spring rising in the Shiramine district at the foot of Hakusan, an area designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. A public bath stands in the center where the old townscape remains, and it has long been cherished alongside daily life in this deeply snowy mountain village. It is also known as a village of snow lanterns.

Highlights

The fully natural source is a sodium bicarbonate and chloride spring so smooth it is called the silk-skin water, reputed to leave the skin glossy after bathing. Strolling the old streets before slipping into the bath lets you feel the history and daily life at the foot of sacred Hakusan up close.

Enjoying the Seasons

Spring brings fresh greenery and summer the coolness of mountain streams. Autumn tints the surrounding peaks in crimson, and in winter the warm water feels deeply restoring amid snow-lantern traditions and snowy scenery.

Access and Basic Information

About 50 minutes by car heading south on National Route 157 from the Hakusan interchange on the Hokuriku Expressway. The public bath has different hours on weekdays versus weekends and holidays, and generally closes on Tuesdays. Prepare properly for snowy roads in winter and confirm the latest operating information on the official site.

A Quick Tip

The town of Shiramine has a fine old streetscape, so a stroll before or after your bath is recommended. On winter nights snow lanterns are sometimes lit, letting you enjoy scenery unique to snow country.