Ginzan Onsen

Tucked into the mountains of Obanazawa, Ginzan Onsen springs up on land that once thrived as a silver mine. Wooden inns of three and four stories face one another across the Ginzan River, and at dusk gas lamps cast a soft glow over the stone-paved lane.

Highlights

The greatest charm lies in the unified streetscape of inns built from the Taisho into the early Showa era, set along a cobbled riverside walk. The silhouettes of the buildings seen from the bridge look like a postcard. A public bathhouse and a free footbath invite unhurried strolling.

Enjoying the Seasons

Winter, when snow blankets the town, is the most popular season, as the gaslit snowscape turns dreamlike. In seasons of fresh green or autumn color, the murmur of the river adds a cooling note.

Access and Basic Information

About 40 minutes by bus from JR Oishida Station. The water is a saline hydrogen-sulfide spring that warms the body to the core.

A Quick Tip

Winter weekends grow crowded, so aim to arrive early around the evening lamp-lighting hour.