Taking a hot Rotenburo bath outside is a wonderful Japanese tradition, and this Asama onsen area is said to be where the lords and ladies bathed in the Matsumoto of old.
These hot springs are said to be good for weary and tired muscles, perfectly suited for travelers tired from days of sightseeing. The area of Asama onsen has many hot spring baths to enjoy at hotels and various facilities. Hot Plaza Asama is one of the more user-friendly facilities for visitors. Clearly sign posted in English from the road, Hot Plaza is just a short walk from the Asama-onsen-mae bus stop.
The distinctive white and dark wooden building has lanterns in front and although the name on the building itself is only in Japanese, it stands out from the hotels and buildings surrounding it, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding it.
Once inside the main door, buy your onsen ticket (¥600 for adults) and rent a bath towel for an additional ¥300, or smaller face towel to buy (also ¥300) if you need. There is no need to bring shampoo or soap as it is provided inside. Once you give your ticket to the cashier, she will hand you a towel if you paid for one and ask you to bring it back to her if you are borrowing a towel. Carry on down the hall and go through the red curtain featuring the character 女 for women or the blue one men with the character 男 for men.
The first room is where you disrobe and leave your clothing in one of the lockers. Take your towel and any special soaps with you to the main bath. Once here, sit at one of the shower stalls (rinse the stool with the shower first) and get completely clean before entering the big bath.
There is a small, cold water pool and sauna next to the large bath next to the window looking out onto the garden and outdoor rotenburo bath. You are use any of the baths, inside or out, and to stay as long or as little as you like. The outdoor bath is especially lovely, there are even a few umbrellas to use to keep the rain off your head while bathing in a rain shower.
Once finished bathing, dry off well before heading back into the changing room so as not to drip too much water onto the dressing room floor. After changing, feel free to use the hair dryers and relax before heading out. There is a waiting area outside the bath rooms where you can wait for other people in your group.
This hot spring is very reasonably priced, onsen baths at hotels might have more upscale changing areas and drink machines, bars or restaurants to enjoy after the bath. But for a convenient, high-quality hot spring experience at a good price, this is a wonderful option. The hot springs in this area are said to particularly effecacious for weary and tired muscles, perfectly suited for travelers after a hard day's sightseeing or a stint in the mountains around Kamikochi.
