Only 3 Hours From Tokyo! Soothing Hot Springs, Retro Scenery, and More in Shibata Castle Town

This article was sponsored by Shibata City.

Soak in the Beautifying Emerald-Green Waters of Tsukioka Onsen

Shibata is home to Tsukioka Onsen – a hot spring town that is brimming with charm and nostalgia. Tsukioka was established in 1915, and the area retains an old-world townscape that envelops visitors in a quaint, calming atmosphere.

Tsukioka Onsen’s water is known for its sparkling, emerald-green hue, a result of its high sulfur content. The color subtly shifts with the seasons, earning Tsukioka Onsen the reputation of having “seven faces.”

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Rich in sulfur, the onsen is known as a hot spring that makes one even more beautiful, as it is believed to have beautifying properties, being especially beneficial for the skin. It's also said to warm the body to the core, hence also thought to be a soothing remedy for various ailments.

Tsukioka Onsen hosts numerous “ryokan” inns and hotels where guests can soak in its rejuvenating waters. Accommodations range from family-run businesses that give visitors a homey experience to world-class hotels that exude luxury.

Hisagosou – Unwind in Calming Onsen and Retro Vibes

Hisagosou is a hotel located in the central area of Tsukioka Onsen. It is a prime destination for bathing in Tsukioka Onsen, as it is equipped with both indoor and outdoor baths that allow guests to relax and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the waters.

The hotel has men’s and women’s bathing areas, each featuring both an indoor and an outdoor bath. Natural hot spring water flows continuously into the baths through small fountains, filling the space with a calming trickling sound that creates an almost meditative atmosphere. At night, the lamps around the outdoor baths are lit with a faint glow, helping guests further relax.

The indoor bathing areas have large, tiled baths that almost feel nostalgic. The steamy room and sounds of the water echoing off the walls create a spa-like ambiance, letting one wash away their stresses and worries. The natural light that illuminates the indoor bath emphasizes the deep green color, acting as a visual reminder that visitors are soaking in the beautifying waters of Tsukioka Onsen.

Both the men’s and women’s baths are supplied with bathing necessities such as body wash, shampoo, and conditioner, as well as after-bath amenities, including hair dryers and basic skincare products. 

Do not fret if you have tattoos – according to the proprietor of Hisagosou, small, single-point tattoos are not a problem, and larger ones can be allowed if covered. Also, if sharing a soak with others is still out of your comfort zone, Hisagosou also has private baths that can be reserved at the front desk. Hisagosou’s baths are also available to non-overnight guests, making it a great stop for anyone looking to enjoy onsen-hopping around Tsukioka.

Kaho – Revel in the Epitome of Japanese Hospitality and Luxury

Kaho is arguably one of the most famous and highly regarded accommodations in Tsukioka Onsen. The ten-story facility radiates opulence, showering guests with the utmost hospitality from the second they reach the entrance.

Splendid decorations such as Japanese screens and paintings adorn the common areas, including the lobby, where many guests can be found lounging while overlooking the stunning Japanese garden, which is lit up at night, as they enjoy complimentary refreshments.

It goes without saying that the sublime splendor extends to the guest rooms, with a variety of Western and Japanese-style accommodations available. The rooms also boast spectacular views, with one side facing the lush nature surrounding Tsukioka Onsen and the other the endearing hot spring town.

The room pictured here even has its own private onsen on the balcony, overlooking the rice paddies stretching out into the distance and the surrounding mountains. Guests can breathe in the fresh air while soaking in the hot water and taking in the quiet natural views, creating a moment of pure relaxation.

Another way to experience Kaho’s incredible hospitality is by indulging in a meal at the restaurant prepared by its masterful chefs. This gastronomic dining experience features local, seasonal ingredients such as freshly caught fish and local Shibata wagyu beef, showcasing some of the best that the region has to offer. The multi-course feast comes out dish by dish, each artfully arranged to delight both the eye and the palate.

The refined dining spaces overlook the lush greenery surrounding the ryokan, with private rooms available for guests seeking a more exclusive experience. Take this time to savor the sumptuous, seasonally changing menu created by the hotel’s first-rate chefs while enjoying the serenity exuding from the peaceful dining setting. 

Stop by the Many Charming Shops and Photo Spots of the Onsen Town

The charm of Tsukioka Onsen is not limited to its hot springs – the lovely area, with its walkable layout and many shops tucked into retro buildings, is perfect for a day of exploring. Below, we introduce some of the must-visit spots that capture its unique appeal.

Tsukioka Foot Bath

If you need a break to rest your feet, stop by the free Tsukioka “ashiyu” (foot bath), filled with the same soothing waters the onsen is known for. Wooden seats surround basins filled with hot, rippling water that relieve the senses and let the fatigue melt away. While soaking, visitors can gaze at the Japanese umbrella art installation decorating a stage across from a rock garden, which is illuminated with warm lighting at night.

You can also take fabulous commemorative photos at the massive Tsukioka sign in front of the foot bath. There is a conveniently placed smartphone stand facing the sign, ready to help take the perfect shot as a memory of your time in Tsukioka Onsen.

Tsukioka Brewery

Located right next to the foot bath, Tsukioka Brewery is a craft beer specialty shop that makes its own brews in-house. One of its signature brews is the Tsukioka Emerald Ale, inspired by the green hue of the onsen waters. This beer carries subtle notes of muscat grapes, reminiscent of white wine transformed into beer.

Along with other classic brews, Tsukioka Brewery also offers seasonal fruit flavors, such as lemon in the spring, strawberry milk around Valentine’s Day, and muscat and apple around Christmas. Many of the brews are light and easy to drink, and the brewery also offers a lunch menu that has been tailored to pair well with its beer.

Tsukiakari no Niwa

If you are looking to take breathtaking, whimsical photos in Tsukioka Onsen, look no further than Tsukiakari no Niwa. Colorful pillars decorated with Japanese paper are placed around a winding path, which leads to a pool of water that fantastically reflects the vibrant designs.

For a more ethereal sight, head back to Tsukiakari no Niwa at night, when the pillars glow in the darkness. The glowing pillars cast vivid reflections on the water’s surface, creating the illusion of a mystical gateway. Donning a yukata, which can be rented from certain accommodations such as Kaho, among the lanterns is sure to make for some enchanting, mystical photos!

premium WAGASHI NAGOMI

premium WAGASHI NAGOMI is a shop that specializes in Japanese-style confections from around the country. The shelves are lined with adorable, tantalizing treats and snacks, many beautifully packaged, making them ideal souvenirs and gifts.

The shop also hosts a matcha experience where customers can whisk their own matcha to be enjoyed along with a traditional Japanese sweet. All the tools needed to make the bowl of matcha are available in the eat-in corner, and the sweet can be chosen from a selection of cute confections. Large windows overlook lush greenery, creating a serene setting to delight in your matcha break.

premium SENBEI DEN

premium SENBEI DEN offers a unique experience where customers can make their own special senbei rice crackers, from roasting to glazing. The employees patiently give instructions as you begin by roasting over a grill located in the middle of the store, flipping back and forth until your senbei develops a golden hue.

A sauce is then provided, which is used to draw your own, one-of-a-kind design on the senbei. The senbei is then roasted a bit more until it gets a golden brown color and the design becomes clearly visible. Once a glaze is applied and the senbei cools, your original senbei is ready to enjoy!

Many other shops in the onsen town offer a variety of goods, including ones that sell furikake seasoning, local sake (and even offer tastings), chocolate, and much more. Walking through the townscape offers new discoveries at every corner, allowing you to relish the spellbinding whimsy of a countryside hot spring town while shopping, eating, sightseeing, and more in between soaks in the onsen.

Delve Into the Fascinating History and Culture of the Castle Town

Shibata Castle – Wander the Grounds of a Historic Japanese Fortress

Shibata Castle was built by the first feudal lord of the Shibata Clan in the 16th century, standing as a symbol of the area’s political and economic status. Nowadays, it is registered as an Important Cultural Property and is appreciated as one of Japan’s 100 Best Castles.

The most recognizable building of the Shibata Castle grounds is the three-story turret that overlooks the moat and the surrounding town. An unusual detail of this structure is the three “shachihoko” statues that adorn the roof, and they can also be found atop the main gate.

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While the interior of the main turret remains closed to the public, other buildings around the grounds are open and house exhibits detailing the castle’s history. The solemn wooden interiors appear unchanged from times past, and the windows let visitors look out upon the same scenery the samurai may have seen centuries ago.

Shibata Castle was once a stronghold for the region, and the historic buildings make it easy to imagine the samurai running around the grounds. In addition to the structures, the stone walls on which the buildings are perched are also known for being extraordinarily beautiful, appearing to fit together seamlessly like puzzle pieces.

Across from the main gate is a small information center where visitors can find pamphlets and souvenirs, including extravagant postcards with “Shibata Castle” written in bold kanji characters. For a personal memento, consider painting your own miniature goldfish float, which are symbolic of the city’s major summer festival (painting experience available until 2:45 pm).

Shimizu-en – Marvel at the Beauty of the Four Seasons in a Traditional Japanese Garden

Located in the southern part of the city is Shimizu-en, a serene Japanese garden that feels so removed from modern times that it is hard to believe that it is only a ten-minute walk from Shibata Station. The garden is believed to have been built by the tea master and gardener Agata Sochi in the mid-17th century, and it is still highly appreciated by tea practitioners to this day, with three tea houses placed around the park, as well as beloved as a place of rest and reprieve by the locals.

This tranquil garden is filled with seasonal wonders - vibrant green leaves in the summer, fiery foliage in the autumn, snow-covered scenery in the winter, and the gentle return of the greenery in the spring. None of the busy noises of the modern world can be heard in the garden, letting only the calming sounds of nature permeate the air - the chirping of birds, the rustling of leaves, and the soft trickling of water.

Within the garden is the Sho-in, a historic building with an external corridor that offers visitors panoramic views of the garden’s landscape. At the heart of the garden lies a large pond that serves as its central focal point. One of the tea houses hangs over the pond, adding a detail that emphasizes the traditional atmosphere.

A walking path that winds through the garden under a canopy of foliage and even crosses part of the pond, passing gracefully swimming carp and traditional-style structures. It is the perfect place to enjoy a moment of peace and self-reflection away from the busyness of society.

Across from the garden is a long, row house-style building that was once the living quarters of local low-ranking samurai. Though the regal residences of high-ranking samurai and officials can be found across Japan, this is one of the very few remaining structures that give insight into the daily lifestyles of lowly retainers and their families.

The stables are open to the public, and the interiors paint a clearer picture of the stark difference between the lower and higher-ranking samurai. These samurai were provided with a simple tatami-floored room, a small earthen kitchen space, a small entranceway with a hearth, and a separate shared bathroom located at the end of the grounds.

Aumont Sake Brewery – Immerse Yourself in Niigata’s Longstanding History of Sake Production

With its high-quality rice and clear water, Shibata is one of Japan’s leading sake producers, and one of the best places to appreciate this acclaimed beverage is at Aumont Sake Brewery. The brewery has been in operation for over 200 years, and to this day employs traditional techniques and the same masterful craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations during the sake-making process.

To help visitors better understand the world of sake, Aumont hosts a projection mapping show and interactive exhibit that enraptures visitors with stunning visuals and fascinating storytelling. Both are held in an old warehouse, the history and design of which is explained by an employee prior to the show. The projection mapping show is magical, featuring classic imagery such as fireworks and also covering the sake-making process. Surrounded by aged wooden beams and pillars that whisper of the past, this is the epitome of a blend of modernity and tradition.

After the projection mapping, visitors are led to an exhibit that shares the story behind the brewery, and also has views of a brewery room with the machinery used to make sake. Friendly guides explain each display, allowing visitors to feel more appreciation for the care and dedication the brewery puts into making its sake.

The brewery also holds a shop with an extensive selection of sake and Japanese alcoholic beverages. In addition to the brewery’s own premium labels, the stock includes products from other Japanese breweries, making it perfect for tasting and comparing to find your favorite brew and flavor profile. Tasting sessions are available on-site, so guests can sample different types of sake during their visit.

Zoshunkaku – Bask in the Shimmering Opulence of an Over 100-Year-Old Residence

Originally sitting along the banks of the Sumida River in Tokyo, Zoshunkaku is a Taisho-period building, constructed in 1912, that was relocated to its original owner’s hometown of Shibata in 2022. While the exterior displays the simple yet refined architecture that characterizes many buildings from the era, the interior is a grand spectacle that glimmers at every corner.

Stepping into the impressive foyer, visitors are greeted with fabulous woodwork that stretches from the intricately designed floors to the high ceilings. Much of the interior is adorned with gold leaf, casting a warm, elegant sheen that creates an extraordinary ambiance. There are details to be discovered in every nook and cranny – do not let any angle go unnoticed!

The first rooms that enter the line of vision are the joint dining rooms, with gorgeously upholstered chairs surrounding solid wooden tables under sparkling chandeliers. The lavish decoration makes it no wonder that these rooms were used to greet and entertain guests. The light seeping in from the warped glass windows and the faint glow from the lamps gently illuminate the rooms, accentuating the sophisticated furnishings and aura.

A scrumptious snack of matcha and seasonal Japanese confections can be enjoyed in either of the dining rooms, though taking it in the second dining room atop the stately wooden table gives the feeling of being at a regal tea party. Guests can select their preferred sweet from several options and choose between having the matcha prepared for them or whisking it themselves.

Past the dining rooms is the study, decorated with fantastic “fusuma” sliding doors with golden hues that let the overlain traditional paintings stand out. Though it can be hard to take your eyes off the fusuma, be sure to look up, as you will find the eyes of a majestic dragon that appear to be staring back at you, no matter what angle you are standing at.

A posh staircase leads to the second floor, where yet another grandiose room awaits. A mosaic-tiled corridor with birds and cherry blossoms guides you to a tatami-floored space with a dazzling ceiling. This room also seems almost entirely covered in gold, which gleams with the natural light that shines through the windows. Overall, it’s a building that stands as a prime example of Japanese grandeur.

Feast on Innovative Japanese Cuisine Using Local Ingredients at Tegami

Shibata is a nature-rich city, boasting not only both mountain and coastal terrain, but also rivers and fields. This varied topography blesses the region with delectable ingredients, which are showcased in the mouthwatering menu at Tegami, a Japanese restaurant in Shibata.

Tegami serves “kaiseki” course cuisine, which consists of numerous small, expertly-prepared dishes that let guests taste a variety of flavors and textures. While the kaiseki menu changes seasonally, all of Tegami’s kaiseki lineups include local Shibata beef, which is known for its beautiful marbling and melt-in-the-mouth texture.

The restaurant has both table and counter seating, though the counter seating has an open-kitchen view that allows guests to watch the chef at work. Seeing the skillful hands flit without hesitation from ingredient to utensil and back offers eye-catching entertainment that will hypnotize through every bite.

Do note that Tegami is reservation-only, so if you want to indulge in this gastronomic experience, be sure to make a prior reservation.

Easily Accessible From Tokyo! Use Public Transportation to Explore Shibata

Though they offer the calmness of an off-the-beaten-path destination, Shibata and Tsukioka Onsen are actually quite easily accessible from central Tokyo with public transportation.

To reach Shibata, first take the Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Niigata Station (about two hours). From there, transfer to the Hakushin Line bound for Shibata or Murakami (around 40 minutes).

Tsukioka Onsen can be reached directly by bus from Shibata Station, and as the town itself is extremely walkable, this means that no car is necessary. However, do note that there are only three buses between Shibata Station and Tsukioka Onsen per day.

There is also a direct bus to and from Niigata Station, but it only runs twice per day.

Buses are cash only. The bus between Tsukioka Onsen and Shibata Station is 500 yen, while the bus between Tsukioka Onsen and Niigata Station is 1,500 yen*.

*As of September 2025

Embark on a Journey Through Niigata’s History and Culture in Shibata

Shibata offers everything one could want from a trip to Japan: astounding seasonal scenery, soothing hot springs, magnificent historic sites, enthralling culture, mouth-watering cuisine, and more. Even so, the quiet streets give the sense that it is still an undiscovered gem in Japan’s countryside, allowing visitors to explore with little interruption. As it is easily accessible from Tokyo with just public transportation, Shibata should certainly be on any Japan itinerary. 

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