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Japan is renowned for its hot springs, with numerous hot spring resorts scattered across the country.
Each hot spring area has its unique charm, offering the ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation for mind and body.
Here are the top 10 popular hot spring destinations in Japan.
Immerse yourself in the soothing waters and experience supreme relaxation.
1. Kusatsu Onsen
Located in Gunma Prefecture, Kusatsu Onsen is one of Japan’s top three hot springs. Known for its high water temperature and abundant flow, Kusatsu’s hot springs are highly regarded for their therapeutic benefits. The iconic Yubatake (hot water field) in the center of the town fascinates visitors with its unique scenery.
Yubatake: The Yubatake is the symbol of Kusatsu Onsen, located in the center of the town. The hot water flowing from the Yubatake creates a misty and magical atmosphere. At night, the area is beautifully illuminated, offering a stunning view.
Sainokawara Park: Sainokawara Park is a place where you can enjoy both nature and hot springs. The park features large open-air baths and foot baths, providing a relaxing experience. Stroll through the park and take in the natural beauty.
2. Hakone Onsen
Located in Kanagawa Prefecture, Hakone Onsen is easily accessible from Tokyo, attracting many tourists. Surrounded by rich natural beauty, Hakone offers hot spring enjoyment with seasonal landscapes.
Owakudani: Owakudani is a volcanic valley with active sulfur vents and hot springs. The famous “black eggs” boiled in the hot springs are believed to increase longevity. Enjoy the impressive volcanic landscape and taste the unique eggs.
Lake Ashi: Lake Ashi is a beautiful lake in Hakone, where you can enjoy boat cruises. The lakeside is dotted with hot spring inns and resorts, offering luxurious hot spring experiences with lake views.
3. Arima Onsen
Located in Hyogo Prefecture, Arima Onsen is one of Japan’s oldest hot spring resorts. It offers two types of water: the reddish-brown “Kinsen” (gold spring) and the clear “Ginsen” (silver spring), both known for their healing properties. Arima is a place where history and tradition blend seamlessly.
Taiko no Yu: Taiko no Yu is a symbolic bathhouse in Arima, favored by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The facility offers various types of baths, creating a relaxing atmosphere. Enjoy the therapeutic benefits of both Kinsen and Ginsen.
Arima Onsen Temple: This temple is the guardian of Arima Onsen, located in the center of the hot spring town. It offers historical buildings and gardens, providing a serene place to stroll. The temple also offers a panoramic view of Arima Onsen.
4. Beppu Onsen
Located in Oita Prefecture, Beppu Onsen consists of eight hot spring areas known as “Beppu Hattou.” With its abundant water flow and variety of hot springs, Beppu attracts many hot spring enthusiasts.
Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour): The Hell Tour is a famous attraction in Beppu, showcasing hot spring pools with unique and striking features like the “Blood Pond Hell” and “Sea Hell.” Each “hell” offers a different experience, providing endless surprises.
Beppu Tower: Beppu Tower offers a panoramic view of Beppu city. Especially known for its beautiful night views, it allows visitors to appreciate the charm of the hot spring town illuminated at night.
5. Yufuin Onsen
Located in Oita Prefecture, Yufuin Onsen is known for its beautiful natural environment and artful atmosphere. The hot spring town at the foot of Mount Yufu features unique galleries and cafes, creating a cultural ambiance.
Lake Kinrin: Lake Kinrin is a beautiful symbol of Yufuin, offering seasonal landscapes. The lake is particularly enchanting in the early morning when it is often shrouded in mist. Enjoy the hot springs at inns around the lake while taking in the serene view.
Yunotsubo Street: Yunotsubo Street is Yufuin’s main street, lined with unique shops and galleries. Discover handmade crafts and local specialties while enjoying a stroll through the hot spring town.
6. Kinosaki Onsen
Located in Hyogo Prefecture, Kinosaki Onsen is famous for its “sotoyu meguri” (public bath tour). The town features seven public baths, allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of hot springs while exploring the charming streets.
Public Bath Tour: The highlight of Kinosaki Onsen is visiting its seven public baths. Each bath has unique features, and you can enjoy them all with a special bath pass. Experience the traditional atmosphere of the hot spring town while touring the baths.
Kinosaki Ropeway: The Kinosaki Ropeway connects the hot spring town to a mountaintop observatory. From the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Sea of Japan and the hot spring town. The sunset view is particularly beautiful.
7. Ikaho Onsen
Located in Gunma Prefecture, Ikaho Onsen is a hot spring town rich in history and culture. The town is characterized by its stone steps, with historical buildings and shrines lining the way.
Stone Steps Street: The stone steps are the symbol of Ikaho Onsen, featuring 365 steps. The steps are lined with hot spring inns, souvenir shops, and restaurants, offering a charming atmosphere. At the top, you’ll find Ikaho Shrine for a peaceful visit.
Ikaho Onsen Source: Enjoy hot springs directly from the source at Ikaho Onsen. The “golden water,” rich in iron, has a unique reddish-brown color and distinct taste. Bathing in the source offers the ultimate relaxation.
8. Noboribetsu Onsen
Located in Hokkaido, Noboribetsu Onsen is known for its hot springs that flow from Hell Valley (Jigokudani). With abundant water and diverse spring qualities, it is ideal for both therapeutic and relaxing purposes.
Hell Valley (Jigokudani): Hell Valley is the symbol of Noboribetsu Onsen, formed by volcanic activity. The valley features boiling ponds and steaming vents, creating a dramatic landscape. Explore the valley to witness the power of nature and hot springs.
Noboribetsu Onsen Town: The town features numerous hot spring inns and hotels, offering a traditional hot spring town atmosphere. At night, the town is beautifully illuminated, providing a picturesque nightscape.
9. Ibusuki Onsen
Located in Kagoshima Prefecture, Ibusuki Onsen is famous for its unique sand baths. The hot sand baths on the coast offer a unique experience not found elsewhere.
Sand Baths: The main attraction of Ibusuki Onsen is its sand baths, where you are buried in warm sand to relax and detoxify. Enjoy the experience while gazing at the ocean.
Mount Kaimon: Known as “Satsuma Fuji,” Mount Kaimon offers beautiful views from Ibusuki. There are hiking trails to the summit, providing a 360-degree panoramic view. Reconnect with nature and refresh your mind and body.
10. Dogo Onsen
Located in Ehime Prefecture, Dogo Onsen is Japan’s oldest hot spring resort. The blend of historical architecture and modern facilities allows visitors to enjoy the rich hot spring culture.
Dogo Onsen Honkan: Built in the Meiji period, the Dogo Onsen Honkan is a historical building and a national important cultural property. The bathhouse offers various bathing facilities, allowing you to experience traditional hot spring culture.
Dogo Park: Dogo Park is a large park in the hot spring town, featuring beautiful gardens and ponds. The park includes a hot spring museum and historical buildings, offering a leisurely stroll while learning about the history of hot springs.
Conclusion
Japan’s hot spring resorts each offer unique charms, providing relaxation and inspiration to visitors.
The top 10 hot spring destinations, including Kusatsu, Hakone, Arima, Beppu, Yufuin, Kinosaki, Ikaho, Noboribetsu, Ibusuki, and Dogo, are all worth visiting.
Enjoy the therapeutic benefits and beautiful scenery of these hot springs while immersing yourself in Japan’s rich hot spring culture.
Use this guide to plan your visit and fully experience the soothing warmth of Japanese hot springs.
