Bessho Onsen (Ehime)

**Water characteristics:** Bessho's waters are sulfur springs (硫黄泉, iousen) emerging at 42–50°C with milky-white color from suspended sulfur particles. The water has a strong rotten-egg smell (hydrogen sulfide) typical of sulfur springs — this dissipates after bathing but your clothes/towel will retain the scent for hours. The minerals coat skin with a slippery film; rinse minimally to retain therapeutic benefits. **Ryokan experience:** The resort has 12 small ryokan, most family-run with 10–20 rooms. Overnight stays include dinner (local river fish, mountain vegetables, Ehime beef) and breakfast, plus unlimited access to the inn's private baths. Room rates are very reasonable (¥10,000–12,000/person) compared to famous onsen resorts. English is minimal; book via phone or travel agent. Recommended: Oku-Yamanoya Ryokan (奥山の家旅館), traditional atmosphere, excellent food. **Day bathing:** For visitors without overnight time, the municipal bath Ishizuchi Fureai no Sato (¥500) offers indoor and outdoor sulfur baths with mountain views. Towel rental ¥200, soap provided. Visit afternoon (14:00–16:00) to avoid post-hiking crowds (17:00–19:00). Several ryokan offer day-use bathing (¥700–1,000) with better bath facilities than the public option. **Combination with Mt. Ishizuchi:** Bessho Onsen makes an ideal post-hike recovery destination — soak sore muscles in sulfur waters after climbing Mt. Ishizuchi. Book ryokan one night after your planned summit day. The 30-minute drive from Ishizuchi Ropeway to Bessho Onsen passes through scenic mountain roads.