9481 Toyosato, Nozawa Onsen Village, Shimotakai District, Nagano Prefecture
Rating
Cost per person
¥500
Matsuba no Yu is one of Nozawa Onsen's traditional public bathhouses, known as 'sotoyu.' Located a short walk from Oyu, this bathhouse features a simple, classic design. The waters are slightly cloudy and known for being quite hot, so it's recommended to test the temperature before entering. Locals sometimes use the first floor as a laundry area, adding to the bathhouse's communal atmosphere. Open from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM between April and November, and from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM between December and March, it's a great way to experience the local onsen culture.