On this particular day, with the spectacularly sunny weather, I wasn't about to take the short (or easy) way back. So I headed north, past Hirayu Onsen to "Shin-" ("new") Hirayu Onsen, which you see here. My goal: yet more onsen (hot springs) at Shin-Hodaka.
An old cycling buddy asked me to see if the roten-buro (outdoor bath), just under the bridge midway along the road to Shin-Hodaka was still there. I am happy to report that it is, and that it's still free. This area has dozens of hot springs, many free; you really need a LOT more time to do it justice.