Part 3/10:
The early 2020s marked a pivotal point when Niǒ's hot spring temperature declined significantly due to environmental factors, notably changes in water inflow from nearby rivers and possibly overuse. The temperature drop—from an original 80°C down to around 40°C—led to a temporary closure of the inn for about a year and a half, causing financial strain on the local community. To recover, the owners launched a crowdfunding campaign, raising funds to install new boilers that could heat the spring water and resume operations. This effort highlights the community's resilience and dedication to preserving their cultural asset.