Babadani Onsen, Onsen in Unazuki, Kurobe, Japan
Babadani Onsen is a sulfur spring onsen in Unazuki, Kurobe, Japan. It consists of a simple open-air bath surrounded by forest, with water that has a milky, opaque look and a strong sulfur smell.
The spring was discovered in the early 20th century during railway construction in the Kurobe gorge. It has been used as a public bath since then, with simple facilities that have been maintained by the local community.
The onsen is a local gathering spot where residents come to soak and chat, especially after work. The sulfur smell and milky water are considered signs of the spring's potency, and bathers often comment on how the water leaves the skin feeling smooth.
The bath is small and can get crowded, so visiting early in the morning or late in the evening offers a more relaxed experience. Bring your own towel and toiletries, as none are provided, and be prepared for a short walk from the parking area.
The water's milky color comes from fine sulfur particles that stay suspended in the spring. Unlike many onsen, the bath here is not diluted or heated, so the water is as it comes out of the ground.
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