Shima Tamura (Shima Onsen)

A trusted companion for warmth and comfort during the harsh winter chill

Shima Onsen
A Celebrated Hot Spring Resort of Gunma

Nestled in Nakanojo, Gunma Prefecture, Shima Onsen rests at an elevation of 650 meters within Joshinetsu Kogen National Park. Alongside Kusatsu and Ikaho, it is renowned as one of the “Three Famous Hot Springs of Joshu.” Surrounded by mountains and nourished by the upper reaches of the Shima River, this tranquil hot spring town boasts a history dating back to the early Heian (794–1185) and Kamakura (1185–1333) periods.

Known as the “sacred spring that heals forty thousand ailments,” Shima Onsen has long welcomed travelers in search of rest and recovery. Its mineral-rich waters are believed to be effective for neuralgia, rheumatism, fatigue, and chronic skin conditions. It is also celebrated as one of Japan’s “Three Great Hot Springs for Gastrointestinal Health,” with spring water that can be safely consumed. Locals say that drinking the cool hot spring water can help ease digestive troubles, particularly constipation.

Among the region’s highlights is Lake Oku-Shima, famed for its striking clarity and enchanting cobalt-blue hue—lovingly known as “Shima Blue.” This breathtaking natural wonder continues to captivate visitors with its otherworldly beauty.

Shima Tamura
A 500-Year-Old Hot Spring Ryokan

Located in the heart of Shima Onsen, Shima Tamura is a historic hot spring inn Nestled in the heart of Shima Onsen, Shima Tamura is a traditional Japanese ryokan with a history spanning more than 500 years, tracing its roots back to the Muromachi period (1336-1573). At the top of the gentle “Tamura Slope” stands its stately thatched-roof entrance, rebuilt in 1834, which continues to greet travelers with timeless dignity. Inside, guests are welcomed into a world of classic Japanese architecture, serene guest rooms overlooking seasonal landscapes, and soothing bathhouses, each with its own distinctive charm.

All six bathhouses at Shima Tamura boast abundant, high-quality hot spring water flowing directly from the source. Guests can enjoy some of northern Kanto’s finest onsen experiences, from the open-air Mori no Kodama (“Echo of the Forest”), where the gentle murmur of the river blends with seasonal scenery, to the large bath Iraka no Yu, offering high, medium, and low-temperature pools. Iwane no Yu, located closest to the source, also features the traditional Edo-period steam bath therapy, providing a rare opportunity to experience historic therapeutic practices. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, wellness, or a journey into history, a stay at Shima Tamura offers an unforgettable hot spring retreat in Gunma.

Savoring the Flavors of Gunma

One of Shima Tamura’s proudest features is its cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients, known as the “blessings of Shima.” The chefs take great care to use the finest seasonal produce, preparing each meal not just to satisfy hunger but to nourish the spirit. Every dish reflects their dedication to quality and their desire to offer guests a truly enriching dining experience.

Showcasing the bounty of Gunma, the menu highlights regional specialties such as rice for spring-water porridge, konjac, mushrooms, seasonal mountain vegetables, tofu, milk, and eggs, as well as locally raised meats. Guests can savor the natural tastes of the region, beautifully presented to reflect the shifting seasons.

Shima Tamura has long been cherished by Japan’s cultural figures, including Yukichi Fukuzawa, Akiko Yosano, and Mokichi Saito, who found inspiration within its refined setting. Even today, visitors can experience the same warmth of hospitality and culinary excellence that have made the inn a treasured retreat for centuries.

Reason for Introduction

Introduced Samue: T/C Burberry Weave Cotton-Lined Samue, Navy (Jacket Only)

Winters in Shima Onsen can be severe, with temperatures occasionally dropping to –10°C (14°F). Seeking warm, insulated garments to protect our staff from the cold, we were delighted to see that they favored our navy T/C Burberry Weave Cotton-Lined Samue.

The jacket’s natural cotton lining provides comforting warmth, while its distinctive Burberry weave—featuring a subtle sheen and rich, deep color—was a decisive factor in its selection. To make it uniquely ours, we embroidered the inn’s logo on the left sleeve. This design draws inspiration from the family crest traditionally displayed on the back of happi coats, a motif handed down through generations at Shima Tamura. With its timeless craftsmanship and understated elegance, this samue remains as refined and relevant today as ever.

Feedback from Staff

We asked the staff to share their impressions after wearing our samue. They use it not only for welcoming guests and managing front desk duties but also when traveling between their sister property, the Shima Tamura Grand Hotel. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive: the samue provides excellent warmth, allows for easy movement even over a dress shirt, and maintains a neat appearance thanks to a cleverly designed front pocket discreetly integrated into the garment.

The jacket is padded with polyester, which dries faster than cotton and can be safely machine washed. Its outer fabric, a cotton–polyester blend, resists wrinkling, making it perfect for daily use as a uniform. This combination of comfort, practicality, and low-maintenance care is one of the qualities our staff most appreciates.

The Future Envisioned by a Long-Established Inn

The charm of Shima Tamura, with its 500-year history, is far too rich to capture in words alone. We spoke with Ms. Tamura, proprietress of the ryokan and chairperson of the Gunma Innkeepers’ Association, to hear her vision for the future.

“Shima Tamura’s appeal lies in offering guests a space of relaxation while allowing them to feel the depth of its long history. We are confident that anyone who visits will experience the ‘best of Gunma’ through our hot springs, traditional cuisine, and warm hospitality, leaving with a sense of fulfillment. Our goal is to continue sharing these comforts with even more people, drawing on the traditions and spirit of hospitality we have cultivated over the years,” Ms. Tamura shared with a smile.

Looking ahead, Shima Tamura is committed to strengthening its ties within Gunma Prefecture. While honoring centuries-old traditions and cherishing its bonds with the local community, the inn will continue providing authentic Japanese ryokan experiences to every guest. We feel privileged to support the vision of this remarkable inn—one that serves as a bridge between history and the future.