Shikanozoki no Yu Tsuruya

Shikanozoki no Yu Tsuruya, a Ryokan in Renowned Shima Onsen

Shima Onsen, legendary waters said to heal 40,000 ailments

Shikanozoki no Yu Tsuruya is tucked away in peaceful Hinatami, surrounded by the natural beauty of Joshin'etsu Kogen National Park. This is the birthplace of Shima Onsen, whose celebrated waters are said to heal 40,000 ailments, which is the very meaning of the name "Shima."

Unwind in a guest room with a bath fed directly from the hot spring, or enjoy one of our two private hot spring baths. Savor thoughtfully prepared dishes, feel the breeze through the trees, and listen to the gentle murmur of the stream. Take your time and enjoy rich, indulgent moments you will find only here.

Your own bath, fed directly from the hot spring

Nine of our ten guest rooms have an in-room bath with a continuous flow of 100% natural hot spring water: all five rooms in the main building, Honkan Tsuruya, with its traditional Japanese aesthetic, and four of the five rooms in the annex, Bettei Mizukian, where Japanese and Western styles come together with a playful touch.

Every room has its own layout, character, and bath design. Choosing the one that suits you is part of the pleasure.



Our two hot spring baths are available for private use without a reservation. Shikanozoki no Yu is a spacious open-air bath where you can have the beautiful views of Shima Onsen all to yourself. Kangetsu no Yu is an atmospheric indoor stone bath. Both offer a continuous flow of natural hot spring water, traditionally valued for its restorative properties.

We also offer a private heated-stone spa and a private sauna, with no reservations required. All of these facilities are complimentary and exclusively for overnight guests.

Yakuo Ganbanyoku — Private Heated-Stone Spa

Enjoy the gentle warmth of our heated-stone spa in a thoughtfully designed space that feels a world away from everyday life, all to yourself. For guests of junior high school age and older.

Tenkabito Sauna — Private Sauna

Enjoy an authentic sauna experience in complete privacy, with a dedicated shower booth for added comfort. For guests of junior high school age and older.

Seasonal kaiseki cuisine and handmade soba

Our signature Tsuruya Kaiseki celebrates local ingredients, with every dish carefully prepared by our head chef. Enjoy wild mountain vegetables in spring, sweetfish in summer, mushrooms in autumn, and warming hot pots in winter. Each season brings new flavors to the table.

We take particular pride in our handmade soba, served as a small course during your meal. Savor the delicate aroma, the smooth texture of the noodles, and the rich flavor of the dipping sauce.

Quiet spaces surrounded by greenery

Alongside the lounge next to reception, you will find another lounge with a reading corner in the private bath building. Its walkway offers sweeping views of Shima's natural scenery. Take in the changing colors of the trees and feel the breeze of each passing season.

Our gallery space features works by local artists. After a relaxing soak, take your time browsing the collection.

A temple long cherished by visitors seeking the healing waters

Within the grounds of Tsuruya stands Yakuoji, a small temple with ties to Honnoji in Kyoto. It has long been a cherished place to pray for good health and recovery from illness. The story of our inn began with this temple.

During your stay, stop by to choose a charming good-luck amulet, write a wish on an ema wooden plaque bearing our crane crest, or draw an omikuji fortune slip. It is a lovely way to create a special memory of your visit.

Getting Here

Shima Onsen is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours from Tokyo by train and bus.

Shima Onsen Shikanozoki no Yu Tsuruya

Address: 4372-1 Shima, Nakanojo-machi, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma, Japan
Tel: +81-279-64-2927

By train: Ueno Station → JR Kusatsu-Shima limited express (approx. 120 minutes) → Nakanojo Station → local bus (approx. 30 minutes) → Shima Onsen bus stop.
From the Shima Onsen bus stop, Tsuruya is approximately 6 minutes away by taxi.

By highway bus: Tokyo Station → Shima Onsen Go highway bus (approx. 210 minutes) → Shima Onsen bus stop.

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