Shimoda Onsen (下田温泉)

Category: Onsen

Entrance: Assorted
Tubs: Assorted

Shimoda is a quiet, quaint little town on the island of Shimoshima, one of a collection of sparsely populated lumps of rock known as the Amakusa islands. This area is among the most unspoiled parts of Japan and, as such, has plenty of charm. Walking through Shimoda at night is like strolling about on the set of a Samurai drama. Most of the inhabitants seem to gather at a large building called "Shirasagikan" (Hall of the White Heron). A grandiose name if ever there was one. It is extremely well equipped, with several outdoor baths, several more indoors, and for those who really want to make a night of it, you can hire 2 or 4 person private baths. These are actually extremely good value at 1500 yen, and had I gone there with someone I would like to have escorted in, then this would be where I would have gone. As it was, I opted for the tour of outdoor baths, and was far from disappointed. There is also a rather decent-looking restaurant in the complex. It is unlikely that you would be passing Shimoda by accident, but if you happen to find yourself within about 30 miles, then you could do worse than to check this place out.
Translated Official Site

Kyushu Onsens - mjryoung