Chubu · Ueda, Nagano

♨ Bessho Onsen

'Little Kamakura of Shinshu', with historic temples and an octagonal national-treasure pagoda.

Quick facts

Location: Ueda, Nagano (Chubu region)
Water type: Sulfur spring
Tattoos: Check ahead with each bath
Directions: Open in Google Maps

The water

A simple sulphur spring.

History

Legend links its discovery to Prince Yamato Takeru, and it's often called one of Nagano's oldest onsen. Some believe the 'Nanakuri no yu' praised in Sei Shonagon's 'Pillow Book' is Bessho. The Sanada lords of Ueda are recorded bathing here.

Getting there

From: Tokyo / Nagano
Route: JR Hokuriku Shinkansen to Ueda, then Ueda Electric Railway Bessho Line
Time: about 30 min on the Bessho Line
JR Pass: Shinkansen covered; Ueda Electric Railway not covered.

Check current timetables and fares before you travel.

Famous for (meibutsu)

Ueda tsumugi (craft): pongee silk, a traditional craft
Shinshu soba (food): Nagano's buckwheat noodles

Plan your trip: tours & day trips near Ueda

Find Ueda tours on GetYourGuide

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