In the village of Shirakawa, Gifu Prefecture, tourists are increasingly combining hot spring visits with overnight stays in campervans to save on hotel costs. The parking lot at the Hida-Hakusan roadside station, adjacent to the Shiramizu-no-Yu hot spring facility, is open 24 hours, allowing overnight stays. According to hot spring manager Kenji Furuya, most visitors come specifically to enjoy the hot spring, dine, and then sleep in their vehicles. Among the travelers is a couple from Ireland on their honeymoon, touring Japan.
