Hello, fellow travel lovers!
I visited the "Shiobara Monogatari-kan," a cultural facility in Shiobara Onsen Village, Tochigi Prefecture. It’s a great spot where you can enjoy local gourmet food, sightseeing, and more!
Got local vegetables and soup-style yakisoba!
First, I started my morning shopping at the souvenir shop. What caught my eye were fresh carrots with their leaves still attached and some locally grown rice!
The shop staff told me, "The carrot leaves taste great as tempura." Wait, what? There’s so much that I could probably make enough for 100 people—panic mode activated! Honestly, I could even make a broom with them! (Haha)
"If you have leftovers, you can use them for ikebana," the staff added. Now that’s some seriously fresh advice! (Haha)
I also picked up some soup-style yakisoba, a specialty of Shiobara. I had already enjoyed it at "Kamabiko," so for my souvenir, I chose one from the other famous shop, "Kobaya Shokudo." Why not try both and discover which one suits your taste?
There’s also a photo stand with the Shiobara Onsen sign and a stylish umbrella, making it a perfect photo spot. In the group ahead of me, one person hesitated, saying, "I’ll pass," but someone else boldly took a solo picture. That’s such a missed opportunity!
This is where you should go all out and take as many pictures as you can! (Haha)
A relaxing moment at the footbath!
Next, I headed to the free footbath area, which offers two options: lukewarm water and hot water. But be warned—the hot water is seriously hot! My feet instantly turned into "red octopus legs." Sticking with the lukewarm bath might be the better choice for a cozy soak!
Cross the bridge to find a charming walking path!
After enjoying the footbath, I crossed the bridge in front of the facility to explore the walking path. The umbrella displays here are so stylish—perfect for an Instagram-worthy shot!
As I walked along the path, I stumbled upon a mysterious bathtub. Covered in leaves and mud, it was clearly out of use. But what caught my attention was the sign nearby: "Inhuman acts prohibited." What does that even mean!? It only fueled my imagination in all sorts of directions! (Haha)
A sign discovered at the end of the walking path!
At the end of the walking path, I was greeted by a sign that perfectly captured the onsen village vibe. Strolling along while relaxing and enjoying a touch of mystery is what makes Shiobara so charming!
Highlights of Shiobara Monogatari-kan
- A souvenir shop packed with local vegetables and specialty gourmet treats!
- Refresh yourself with a free footbath!
- Discover little mysteries and stylish displays along the walking path!
- A photo stand that fully captures the essence of Shiobara—don’t forget to snap a picture!
The journey continues... Wishing you all a wonderful trip! – TabiJun
For more details, check out the official website:
Duration of stay here: 40 minutes
