Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
This is a walking tour of a retro hot spring town that strongly retains the atmosphere of the Showa ('50s,'60s) era.
Witness the ancient methods of managing hot spring sources, and explore old towns and old roads not found in typical travel guide books.
A guide has lived in Shima Onsen for over 40 years.
You can experience the atmosphere of a retro hot spring town, the history of Shima Onsen and hot spring culture, encounter with local people. If you are lucky, you can also meet wild animals. Enjoy Local sweets.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
Visit an inn that is said to be the oldest in Japan and one of the models for Ghibli's animated film "Spirited Away"
Shima Onsen
Walk through the retro atmosphere of the hot spring town and the old road. (approximately 1.8 miles) Learn the culture and history of hot springs and communicate with the locals.
Options
Hot Spring Town Walking Tour in Shima Onsen
What‘s Included
You can eat popular local sweets (hot spring steamed buns, Japanese sweets, Western sweets from popular cafes, etc.) at at least two shops in Shima Onsen.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
8 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Excellent walking activity in Shima Onsen town
EmilyWig,Apr 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Matsuo was an excellent guide and this was a lovely walk to understand more about the town and see beautiful scenery
Wonderful Tour with Masuo San
lennartk738,Oct 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had such a great time exploring Shima Onsen with Masuo San. He was incredibly friendly and shared so many fascinating insights about the area — from local stories to the Biennale that was happening. His spontaneity made the walk feel relaxed and personal, and his excellent English made it easy to connect and learn so much. Truly an unforgettable experience!
A must-do walking tour in Shima Onsen
eloyab,Dec 29, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This tour allows visitors to get a deeper look at Shima Onsen. It's very relaxing, nothing is hurried. I got to see places which I would have otherwise missed if I just walked alone around town - the oldest Ryokan, an old school, unknown ancient roads. Mr. Masuo, the tour guide, answers every question the best way he can and recommends nice places to eat, buy souvenirs and just enjoy a good cup of coffee. This tour us highly recommended for those visiting Shima Onsen.
Memorable memories in Shima Onsen
Marokia M,Oct 9, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The visit with Masuo went very well. He introduced us to Shima Onsen but more (we also asked him a number of questions about Japan). He was very informative and kind. Shima Onsen is a mountain village famous for its Onsen and with breathtaking views. I highly recommend whatever the weather or the season!
I've had enough fun on my own.
Relax806812,Sep 13, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Thanks to you, I was able to enjoy walking around the city slowly. We have been with the Inn Owner by the Guide several times, but it is full-fledged(?)This was my first time walking around the city. With our request, the Yamaguchi area, which we had little experience visiting, was given great importance. Now it's a surprising experience that the main Directions used to be alleyways that only residents use, and that there are more ups and downs than you might expect. Although I took fewer photos due to the hot weather in early autumn, I wanted to walk slowly again during the autumn foliage season and cherry blossom season.
A Perfect Introduction to Shima Onsen
D6577OEscotth,Nov 28, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We were so happy that we booked this tour. It was our first time visiting Shima Onsen, and this guided walking tour was an absolutely perfect way to get acquainted with the history of the town, to get an understanding of how onsens “work”, and to meet local vendors who have perfected their craft. Mr. Kashiwabara is the perfect guide. A life long resident of the area, he provides tremendous insights to his hometown. His English is perfect, he is a warm and gracious host, and he is a delightful conversationalist. We highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Shima Onsen for the first time! Thank you Mr. Kashiwabara for a memorable time!
Tour with local insight to what makes Shima Onsen so special
Tyler-KameseiRyokan,Oct 6, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Shima Onsen is highly regarded among onsen aficionados but in my past visits I couldn't get a sense of what makes it so special. So on this visit we joined this Walking Tour to get a professional guide's insight. And the guide, Kashiwabara-san, did not disappoint. He showed us and explained the essence of Shima Onsen's charm, from its historical roots to the unique source of the hot spring water. He also took us into various shops to meet the characteristic owners, and led us down hidden alleyways all of which we wouldn't have been able to do on our own. Nakanojo Town's biennial art festival (highly recommended!) was taking place so we were treated to stops at several of the art installations.
Most Knowledgeable Guide
nhlwhitsunday,Oct 5, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Masuo San was a wonderful guide, whose life in Shima Onsen made his commentary as we roamed the town & surrounding area extremely interesting and fun. A tour well worth taking, I highly recommend it.
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