ONSEN AREAS
Onsen Areas
Famous onsen towns across Japan with spring types, indications, and access
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Hokkaido10
Lake Akan Onsen: A Mystical Lakeside Resort of Marimo and Ainu Culture
Located in Akan-Mashu National Park in eastern Hokkaido, Lake Akan Onsen is a hot spring town on the shores of a mystical lake, home to the special natural monument, Marimo. The Ainu Kotan (village) offers a deep dive into indigenous culture. Enjoy a stay that heals both mind and body, embraced by rich nature.
Asahidake Onsen: A Heavenly Hot Spring in Daisetsuzan National Park
Located at 1,100m altitude at the foot of Mt. Asahidake, Hokkaido's highest peak. Popular as a base for hiking and skiing, it's surrounded by magnificent, untouched nature. Unwind in free-flowing hot springs and enjoy spectacular seasonal views.
Jozankei Onsen: Sapporo's Hidden Retreat of Scenic Gorges and Healing Waters
Just an hour from central Sapporo, Jozankei Onsen is a tranquil hot spring resort nestled in a scenic gorge. Known as "Sapporo's inner parlor," it boasts a rich history, abundant hot springs, and stunning natural beauty that changes with the seasons, offering a perfect escape from the city.
Kawayu Onsen: A Potent Acidic Spring in Akan-Mashu National Park
Located in Akan-Mashu National Park in eastern Hokkaido, Kawayu Onsen is famous for its 'yu-no-kawa' (hot water river). It is renowned for having one of Japan's most strongly acidic springs, potent enough to dissolve a nail in days. Experience the powerful benefits of this onsen amidst magnificent nature.
Niseko Onsen-go | Powder Snow Meets a Variety of Hot Springs
A collection of hot springs scattered around the Niseko area, world-renowned for its powder snow. Located at the foot of Mt. Yotei, it offers diverse spring qualities like chloride and bicarbonate springs.
Noboribetsu Onsen | The 'Department Store of Hot Springs'
Discover one of Hokkaido's most famous onsen, renowned for its variety of spring waters from the spectacular Jigokudani (Hell Valley). Enjoy the dynamic, steamy landscapes and abundant, high-quality waters in this popular resort town.
Lake Shikaribetsu Onsen: A secluded hot spring by a celestial lake in Daisetsuzan National Park
Lake Shikaribetsu, the highest-altitude lake in Hokkaido, is home to the tranquil Lake Shikaribetsu Onsen. Surrounded by untouched nature, this serene hot spring village captivates visitors, especially in winter with its "Shikaribetsu Kotan," an ice village on the frozen lake featuring an open-air ice bath.
Sounkyo Onsen: A Gorge of Grandeur in Daisetsuzan National Park
Nestled in Daisetsuzan National Park, Hokkaido's largest national park, Sounkyo Onsen is a hot spring resort famed for its dramatic gorge scenery and abundant thermal waters. Enjoy healing baths surrounded by majestic nature that changes with the seasons.
Tokachidake Onsen: A Heavenly Hot Spring High in Hokkaido's Mountains
Nestled within Daisetsuzan National Park, Tokachidake Onsen is Hokkaido's highest hot spring village, at an altitude of 1,280 meters. Surrounded by the majestic nature of the active volcano Mt. Tokachi, its open-air baths offer breathtaking seasonal views.
Yoroushi Onsen: A Secluded Hot Spring Retreat in Hokkaido's Wilderness
Tucked away in Nakashibetsu, eastern Hokkaido, Yoroushi Onsen is a hidden gem surrounded by pristine forests. Enjoy a therapeutic soak in free-flowing spring water while listening to the murmuring river. The chance to spot wildlife like Blakiston's fish owls adds to its unique charm.
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Asamushi Onsen | A Seaside Hot Spring Resort Overlooking Mutsu Bay
Located near Aomori City along the scenic coast of Mutsu Bay, Asamushi Onsen is a historic hot spring with roots in the Heian period. Its clear, gentle waters warm you from the core, offering a relaxing bathing experience with a refreshing sea breeze.
Dake Onsen | Milky White Hot Springs at the Foot of Mt. Iwaki
Dake Onsen is nestled at the base of Mt. Iwaki, Aomori's iconic peak. A historic therapeutic spa discovered in the Edo period, it is known for its sulfur aroma and milky white waters, offering a tranquil escape in a rich natural setting.
Sukayu Onsen | Japan's First National Hot Spring Health Resort in the Heart of Hakkoda
Located at an altitude of 900 meters on the western slope of Mt. Odake, the main peak of the Hakkoda Mountains, this historic onsen has a rich past. It is symbolized by its traditional 'toji' (hot spring cure) atmosphere and the massive 'Hiba Senninburo,' a bathhouse made entirely of cypress wood. In 1954, it was the first to be designated as a National Hot Spring Health Resort.
Tsuta Onsen | A Secluded Hot Spring Gushing from the Forest Floor
Nestled in a primeval beech forest within Towada-Hachimantai National Park, Tsuta Onsen is a secluded hot spring with a history dating back to the Heian period. Its unique baths are fed directly from the source bubbling up from under the floorboards, offering an immersive, tranquil bathing experience in the heart of nature.
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Geto Onsen | The King of Touji, a secluded hot spring in a heavy-snow region
Geto Onsen is a remote hot spring village deep in the mountains of Kitakami, Iwate. Located in one of Japan's snowiest areas, it is only open seasonally, closing during winter. It has long been known as the "King of Touji" (therapeutic bathing) for its numerous free-flowing, potent springs.
Hachimantai Onsen-go: A Hot Spring Village with Diverse Waters in a National Park
Nestled in the grand nature of Towada-Hachimantai National Park, Hachimantai Onsen-go is a collection of hot spring resorts scattered throughout primeval beech forests. Each boasts its own unique water quality. From milky white sulfur springs to rare mud baths, it's a place where you can heal both mind and body while enjoying a tour of unique hot springs.
Hanamaki Minami Onsenkyo: A Valley of Hot Springs Loved by Poets
This is a collective term for hot spring resorts scattered along the Toyosawa River valley in Hanamaki, Iwate. It's famed for its rich nature, loved by literary figures like Kenji Miyazawa, and its unique inns.
Osawa Onsen | A Riverside Hot Spring Retreat Loved by Kenji Miyazawa
Nestled along the scenic Hozawa River in Hanamaki, Iwate, Osawa Onsen is a hot spring resort steeped in history. With a legacy spanning 1,200 years, it was a favorite of famed literary figures like Kenji Miyazawa. Enjoy its beautifying waters and the classic atmosphere of a traditional 'toji' (therapeutic bathing) spa.
Oshuku Onsen: A Healing Hot Spring with 450 Years of History, Morioka's Retreat
Located in Shizukuishi, Iwate, Oshuku Onsen is a beloved retreat near Morioka with a history of about 450 years. Its name originates from a legend of a bush warbler (uguisu) healing its wounds in the spring. Surrounded by rich nature, you can enjoy its gentle, renowned waters amid beautiful seasonal scenery.
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Akiu Onsen | A Historic Retreat Loved by Date Masamune
Located about 30 minutes by car from central Sendai, Akiu Onsen is an ancient hot spring resort nestled along the Natori River gorge. It is counted among Japan's "Three Great Hot Springs." A favorite of the famed lord Date Masamune, its history spans over 1,500 years.
Naruko Onsen-go: A 'Department Store' of Hot Springs with 8 Spring Qualities
Naruko Onsen-go, a famed hot spring area in Miyagi Prefecture with over 1,000 years of history, comprises five unique onsen towns. Known as a 'department store of onsen' for boasting 8 of Japan's 10 official spring qualities, it offers an exceptional onsen-hopping experience.
Sakunami Onsen: Sendai's Serene Retreat, the "Waters of Beauty"
About a 40-minute drive from Sendai, this tranquil hot spring resort lies along the Hirose River valley. With a history of over 1,300 years, it is known as the "Waters of Beauty." The clear, gentle waters will soothe your body and soul.
Togatta Onsen: A Historic Hot Spring Retreat at the Foot of Mt. Zao
Nestled in the majestic nature of Zao, Miyagi, Togatta Onsen is a hot spring town with over 400 years of history. Long cherished as a therapeutic spa, it is known for its warm, brownish waters and as a major center for traditional kokeshi dolls.
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Nyuto Onsen-go | A Secluded Hot Spring Village of Seven Unique Inns
This is a collective name for seven hot spring inns scattered within Towada-Hachimantai National Park in Akita Prefecture. Surrounded by a primeval beech forest, each inn boasts its own unique source spring and rustic charm, offering an authentic therapeutic spa experience.
Oga Onsen-go: Hot Springs in the Land of the Namahage
Located on the northwestern coast of the Oga Peninsula in Akita, Oga Onsen-go lets you enjoy hot springs with stunning sunset views over the Sea of Japan. Its chloride springs, known as "netsu-no-yu" (waters of warmth), are prized for their ability to warm you to the core.
Tamagawa Onsen | Japan's Most Acidic Hot Spring for Healing
Deep in the mountains of Akita Prefecture, within Towada-Hachimantai National Park, lies Tamagawa Onsen. It boasts the most acidic spring water in Japan with a pH of 1.2, gushing out at 9,000 liters per minute. It has long been known as a special therapeutic spa, or "toji."
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Ginzan Onsen | A Picturesque Hot Spring Town with Taisho-Era Charm
Tucked away in Obanazawa, Yamagata, Ginzan Onsen is a magical town where wooden ryokan from the Taisho era line the Ginzan River. As dusk falls, gas lamps cast a warm, nostalgic glow, transporting you back in time.
Hijiori Onsen | A Secluded Hot Spring with 1200 Years of Toji Culture
Nestled in a heavy snowfall region of Yamagata Prefecture, Hijiori Onsen is a therapeutic hot spring resort with a 1200-year history. It retains a strong atmosphere of a traditional onsen town, where the culture of "toji"—long-term stays for healing—is still alive. The abundant, effective waters and a famous morning market warmly welcome visitors.
Yunohama Onsen | A Seaside Hot Spring Resort with Stunning Sunsets over the Sea of Japan
Located in Tsuruoka, Yamagata, facing the Sea of Japan, Yunohama Onsen is famed for its beautiful sunsets. With over 1,000 years of history, its chloride springs are known for excellent heat retention, warming the body deeply.
Zao Onsen | A Sky-High Hot Spring Famed for "Snow Monsters"
Located 880 meters above sea level, Zao Onsen boasts a history of over 1,900 years. Its highly acidic sulfur spring is known as the "Spring of Beauty," and its world-famous "Snow Monsters" captivate visitors in winter.
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Dake Onsen | Milky White Acidic Springs at the Foot of Mt. Adatara
Dake Onsen is nestled at the base of Mt. Adatara in Nihonmatsu, Fukushima. This unique spa town draws its hot spring water from a source 8 km away through wooden pipes. Its milky white acidic spring is gentle on the skin and has long been cherished for its therapeutic properties. Enjoy a refreshing escape surrounded by highland air and lush nature.
Higashiyama Onsen | A Historic Hot Spring Retreat in Aizu's Backyard
Nestled along a scenic river gorge near central Aizuwakamatsu, Higashiyama Onsen is a historic hot spring village with a legacy spanning 1,300 years. Once a retreat for the Aizu clan, it's famed for its healing waters, which even samurai Hijikata Toshizo of the Shinsengumi is said to have used.
Iizaka Onsen | A Historic Hot Spring Town Loved by Basho
Located in Fukushima City, Iizaka Onsen is one of the "Three Famous Onsen of Oshu." With a history said to date back to the 2nd century, this historic town, once visited by the poet Basho, invites you to explore its nine public bathhouses.
Takayu Onsen: A Famed Hot Spring with Milky-White, Free-Flowing Waters
Nestled on the slopes of the Azuma Mountains near Fukushima City, Takayu Onsen has a history of over 400 years. It is a rare onsen village where every inn is committed to 100% free-flowing spring water, direct from the source. The milky sulfur spring is renowned for its therapeutic qualities, preserving the atmosphere of a traditional spa sanctuary.
Tsuchiyu Onsen | A Village of Kokeshi Dolls and Steam, Boasting Over 10 Spring Types
Nestled at the foot of the Azuma mountains along the Arakawa River valley, Tsuchiyu Onsen is a historic hot spring village with a 1,400-year legacy. It is also known as a birthplace of traditional kokeshi dolls. With over 10 different types of mineral-rich spring water, it offers a perfect retreat to soothe your body and soul.
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Itamuro Onsen | A National Health Resort for Healing in Tepid Waters
Located in Nasushiobara, Tochigi, Itamuro Onsen is a historic resort known as "Shimotsuke no Yu." Its lukewarm waters are perfect for long, relaxing soaks, earning it a designation as a National Health Resort Onsen for therapeutic stays.
Kawaji Onsen: A Serene Valley Hot Spring Known for Healing
Nestled in a scenic valley in Nikko, Tochigi, where the Kinugawa and Ojikagawa rivers meet, lies Kawaji Onsen. Discovered in the Edo period, it has long been cherished as a therapeutic spa, famously known for its wound-healing properties.
Kinugawa Onsen: A Scenic Hot Spring Resort in a Grand Valley
Just two hours from Tokyo, Kinugawa Onsen is one of the Kanto region's leading hot spring resorts, nestled along the Kinugawa River valley. Its historic waters, discovered in the Edo period, are gentle alkaline simple springs, perfect for all ages to enjoy amidst rich nature and nearby theme parks.
Nasu Onsen-go: A Highland Resort with Imperial Roots
Located in northern Tochigi, Nasu Onsen-go is a historic hot spring area with a legacy of nearly 1,390 years. Known for its diverse collection of springs at the foot of Mt. Nasu, it has long been a therapeutic retreat and a favored destination for the Imperial Family.
Okukinu Onsen-go | Kanto's Last Hidden Gem, A Sanctuary of Natural Springs
Deep within Nikko National Park, Tochigi, lies this secluded onsen village, inaccessible to private cars. Four unique inns each boast their own distinct hot springs, offering a diverse bathing experience amidst pristine nature.
Shiobara Onsen-go | A Valley of Seven-Colored Waters with 1,200 Years of History
Located in northern Tochigi Prefecture, Shiobara Onsen-go is a collection of 11 hot spring areas scattered along the Hoki River valley. Loved by famous writers for centuries, it boasts over 150 diverse springs, offering a delightful onsen-hopping experience.
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Hoshi Onsen: A Historic Inn with Springs Bubbling from Below
Nestled in the mountains of Gunma, this secluded onsen has a history of over 140 years. It's known for its Meiji-era wooden architecture and unique baths where hot spring water wells up directly from the floor, offering a serene escape.
Ikaho Onsen | A Historic Hot Spring Town with Iconic Stone Steps
Located in Shibukawa, Gunma, Ikaho Onsen is famed for its atmospheric stone staircase and two distinct spring waters: the iron-rich, brownish "Kogane no Yu" (Golden Water) and the clear "Shirogane no Yu" (Silver Water).
Kusatsu Onsen | One of Japan's Top 3 Hot Springs
Located in Gunma Prefecture, Kusatsu Onsen is one of Japan's three most famous hot springs. Boasting the largest natural flow of hot spring water in the country, its highly acidic water has long been said to cure every illness except lovesickness.
Manza Onsen | Japan's Premier High-Altitude Sulfur Spring
Manza Onsen is a celestial hot spring village located at an altitude of 1,800 meters in Gunma. Its milky-white waters, boasting the highest sulfur content in Japan, have long been cherished as a therapeutic spa. Enjoy a special time of healing for mind and body in open-air baths with spectacular seasonal views.
Minakami Onsen-go: A Nature Lover's Hot Spring Retreat at Mt. Tanigawa's Base
Located in northern Gunma, Minakami Onsen-go is a collection of hot spring resorts along the clear streams of the Tone River. Easily accessible from Tokyo, it offers stunning seasonal landscapes and a wide range of outdoor activities.
Oigami Onsen: A Legendary Hot Spring in a Scenic Gorge
Nestled in the beautiful Katashina Gorge in Numata, Gunma, Oigami Onsen is a mystical hot spring village with a legend of warring mountain gods. Its gentle, skin-friendly waters and stunning seasonal scenery offer a truly relaxing escape.
Shima Onsen | A historic spa famed for healing '40,000 ailments'
Nestled in the quiet mountains of northwestern Gunma, Shima Onsen's name originates from a legend that it can cure "forty-thousand (shima) ailments." As Japan's first National Hot Spring Health Resort, it offers a chance to heal both body and mind amidst the beauty of the "Shima Blue" lake and scenic valleys.
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Hakone Onsen: A Scenic Hot Spring Resort with Diverse Waters near Tokyo
Just 90 minutes from Tokyo, Hakone is a premier onsen destination nestled in nature with stunning views of Mt. Fuji. Known as the '20 Hot Springs of Hakone,' it offers an incredible variety of spring qualities.
Yugawara Onsen | A Historic Hot Spring Village Praised in Ancient Poetry
Located in a valley along the Chitose River in western Kanagawa, Yugawara Onsen is a historic resort mentioned in the *Man'yoshu*, Japan's oldest poetry anthology. Loved by writers and artists, its gentle, skin-friendly waters, known as "Yakushi-no-yu" (healing waters), offer deep relaxation.
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Echigo-Yuzawa Onsen: Skiing and Hot Springs in Japan's 'Snow Country'
Known as the setting for Yasunari Kawabata's novel "Snow Country," Echigo-Yuzawa Onsen is remarkably accessible, just 80 minutes from Tokyo by Shinkansen. It captivates visitors as a ski resort boasting world-class powder snow in winter and as a nature-rich hot spring destination in other seasons.
Matsunoyama Onsen: A Top Medicinal Spring with Ancient Seawater
Located in Tokamachi, Niigata, Matsunoyama Onsen is one of Japan's 'Three Great Medicinal Hot Springs,' alongside Kusatsu and Arima. Its water originates from ancient seawater trapped underground 12 million years ago, characterized by an extremely high salt content and potent therapeutic effects.
Myoko Onsen-go | A Highland Resort with Seven Springs and Four Seasons
At the foot of Mt. Myoko in Niigata, Myoko Onsen-go is a village of seven hot spring areas. Renowned as a ski destination, it also captivates with diverse springs and lush nature, offering year-round relaxation.
Senami Onsen | Breathtaking Sunsets Over the Sea of Japan
Located in Murakami, Niigata, Senami Onsen is famed for its spectacular sunsets over the Sea of Japan. Discovered in 1904, its hot 95°C spring water is a sodium-chloride spring that warms the body to its core.
Tsukioka Onsen | Emerald Green Hot Springs for Beautiful Skin
Located in Shibata, Niigata Prefecture, Tsukioka Onsen is a renowned hot spring area boasting one of Japan's highest sulfur contents. Its beautiful emerald-green water, known as "bijin-no-yu" (water for beauty), is famous for leaving skin feeling smooth and supple after bathing. The onsen town also offers sake tasting and local delicacies.
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Wakura Onsen | A Premier Seaside Hot Spring Overlooking Nanao Bay
Located on the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture, Wakura Onsen boasts a 1,200-year history. This scenic hot spring resort facing Nanao Bay is renowned for its hot, high-salinity "ocean hot spring," attracting visitors seeking luxury, relaxation, and exquisite cuisine.
Yamanaka Onsen: A Historic Hot Spring in a Scenic Gorge
Located in Kaga, Ishikawa Prefecture, Yamanaka Onsen is a historic hot spring resort with a 1,300-year legacy. It is famed for the scenic beauty of the Kakusenkei Gorge and was praised by the renowned haiku poet Matsuo Basho. The town offers a tranquil atmosphere, traditional crafts, and soothing waters.
Yamashiro Onsen: A Historic Hot Spring Town Steeped in Culture
Located in Kaga, Ishikawa Prefecture, Yamashiro Onsen is a renowned hot spring with 1,300 years of history. Its charming 'Yunogawa' townscape, centered around the 'Soyu' public bathhouse, has captivated many artists and writers. Immerse yourself in history and culture while rejuvenating in its high-quality waters.
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Isawa Onsen | A Hot Spring Oasis in Japan's Wine Country
Located in Fuefuki, Yamanashi, Isawa Onsen is a unique spa town that famously emerged from a vineyard. It features abundant, skin-friendly simple thermal waters, perfect for enjoying alongside wine tasting and fruit picking.
Shimobe Onsen | A Famed Hot Spring Known as Takeda Shingen's Hideaway
Shimobe Onsen is renowned as the "hidden bath of Takeda Shingen," where the 16th-century warlord is said to have healed his wounds. Characterized by its lukewarm water around 30°C, it has long been a popular destination for therapeutic bathing (toji).
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Asama Onsen | The Historic Hot Spring Retreat of Matsumoto Castle
Discover Asama Onsen in Matsumoto, Nagano, a hot spring with 1,300 years of history. Known as the private retreat for the lords of Matsumoto Castle, its gentle, clear alkaline waters are famed as "Bijin-no-yu" (waters of beauty).
Bessho Onsen: A historic 'Beauty Bath' in the 'Kamakura of Shinshu'
Known as the "Kamakura of Shinshu," Bessho Onsen in Ueda, Nagano, is a historic hot spring with over 1,400 years of history, even mentioned in "The Pillow Book." Famed as a "Bijin-no-yu" (Beauty Bath) for its skin-smoothing waters, it's a charming town centered around Kitamuki Kannon Temple and other historic sites.
Kakeyu Onsen | A National Health Resort for Healing Mind and Body
Nestled in the mountains of Ueda, Nagano, Kakeyu Onsen is a renowned hot spring, long known as the 'spring of no more canes.' It's a place of deep healing, ideal for recuperation in a tranquil setting steeped in legend.
Kamisuwa Onsen: A Historic Hot Spring Resort on the Shores of Lake Suwa
Located on the eastern shore of Lake Suwa in central Nagano, Kamisuwa Onsen is a historic hot spring resort blessed with abundant thermal waters. Many inns offer stunning lakeside views, making it a charming destination to enjoy history, culture, and local cuisine.
Nozawa Onsen: A Historic Hot Spring Village with Skiing and Tradition
Located in northern Nagano Prefecture, Nozawa Onsen is a bustling ski resort in winter. Its historic town is dotted with 13 public bathhouses called 'soto-yu,' showing how deeply onsen culture is rooted in local life.
Shibu Onsen: A Historic Town of Cobblestone Streets and Nine Bath巡り
Nestled in the mountains of Nagano, Shibu Onsen is a hot spring resort with 1,300 years of history. A key tradition here is the "Kyu-to-meguri," a tour of nine public bathhouses, believed to bring good fortune.
Shirahone Onsen | A Secluded Hot Spring with Milky-White Waters
Nestled in the Northern Alps in Nagano Prefecture, Shirahone Onsen is a famed hot spring known for its milky-white waters. It's said that 'bathing for three days will keep you cold-free for three years.' This mystical water, which turns white upon contact with air, warms you to the core. Enjoy a tranquil retreat surrounded by pristine nature.
Togura Kamiyamada Onsen: A Historic Hot Spring for Zenko-ji Pilgrims
Located in Chikuma, Nagano, Togura Kamiyamada Onsen has a history of over 120 years. This hot spring town along the Chikuma River once flourished as a place for Zenko-ji Temple pilgrims to relax. Refresh your mind and body in its sulfur-rich waters, known for their skin-beautifying effects.
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Fukuji Onsen: A Nostalgic Retreat in the Okuhida Mountains
Part of the Okuhida Onsen Village, Fukuji Onsen is a tranquil hot spring resort steeped in mountain village charm. Many inns feature traditional irori hearths and preserved folk houses, offering a truly peaceful escape. Enjoy its abundant, high-quality waters and diverse spring types.
Gero Onsen | One of Japan's Three Famed Springs, the "Spring of Beauty"
Located in Gifu Prefecture, Gero Onsen is one of Japan's three most famous hot springs, alongside Kusatsu and Arima. Its smooth, alkaline water is known as "Bijin-no-yu" (Spring of Beauty) for its skin-smoothing properties.
Hirayu Onsen: Gateway to Okuhida, Nestled in the Northern Alps
Located in Takayama, Gifu, at the foot of the Northern Alps, Hirayu is the oldest hot spring in the Okuhida Onsen-go region. Legend says it was discovered by the troops of Takeda Shingen, and it has long flourished as a therapeutic spa. It boasts abundant hot water and diverse spring qualities, and is a popular base for sightseeing in Kamikochi and Mt. Norikura.
Shin-Hirayu Onsen: A Tranquil Hot Spring Retreat in the Okuhida Mountains
Nestled in the heart of the Okuhida Onsen Village, Shin-Hirayu Onsen is known for its rustic charm and abundant hot springs. Legend says it was discovered by a vassal of the 16th-century warlord Takeda Shingen, and it continues to soothe visitors to this day.
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Atami Onsen: A Historic Seaside Hot Spring Resort Favored by Shoguns
Easily accessible from Tokyo, Atami is a famed hot spring resort boasting abundant hot water and diverse mineral qualities, once beloved by the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. With its beautiful coastline and hilly townscape, it offers a rich variety of attractions including stunning views, art, cuisine, and fireworks.
Ito Onsen: A Historic Hot Spring Town with Abundant Waters
Located on the east coast of the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka, Ito Onsen boasts one of Japan's most plentiful supplies of hot spring water, enjoyed in numerous inns and homes.
Rendaiji Onsen | A tranquil, historic hot spring once visited by Yoshida Shoin
Nestled in Shimoda, Shizuoka Prefecture, Rendaiji Onsen is one of the Izu Peninsula's oldest hot springs, with a history of over 1,300 years. Known as a place where the historical figure Yoshida Shoin once stayed, its serene atmosphere and gentle, abundant waters offer deep relaxation for mind and body.
Shuzenji Onsen: The 'Little Kyoto' of Izu, a historic spa town
Located in Izu, Shizuoka, Shuzenji Onsen boasts over 1,200 years of history. Founded by the monk Kobo Daishi, its elegant townscape along the Katsura River has earned it the nickname 'Little Kyoto of Izu.'
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Arima Onsen: One of Japan's Three Ancient Springs with Golden & Silver Waters
Nestled in nature yet part of Kobe City, Arima is a premier hot spring retreat in the Kansai region. It is one of Japan's Three Ancient Springs, even mentioned in the ancient Chronicles of Japan. Its main appeal lies in its two distinct types of water: the reddish-brown "Kinsen" and the clear "Ginsen."
Kinosaki Onsen | A Tale of Seven Public Hot Springs, Explored in Yukata
Kinosaki Onsen in Hyogo Prefecture boasts a 1,300-year history. Along the willow-lined Otani River, seven distinct public bathhouses (sotoyu) await. The town embraces the concept of being "one large ryokan," where strolling between baths in a yukata robe is the quintessential experience.
Yumura Onsen | A Hot Spring Town with a 98°C Source and Rich Culture
Nestled in the mountains of northern Hyogo, Yumura Onsen is a historic hot spring town famous for its 98°C "Arayu" source. Steam rises along the river, where the local culture of "yugaki"—boiling eggs and vegetables in the hot spring water—is still alive and well.
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Kawayu Onsen | Dig Your Own Hot Spring by the River
Kawayu Onsen is a unique hot spring village along the Oto River in Wakayama. With 73°C (163°F) spring water bubbling up from the riverbed, visitors can dig their own personal open-air bath. In winter, the giant "Sennin-buro" bath appears.
Ryujin Onsen | One of Japan's Three Great "Beautifying" Hot Springs
Tucked away in the mountains of Wakayama, Ryujin Onsen has a 1,300-year history. It is famed as one of Japan's "Three Hot Springs of Beauty," with silky waters that leave your skin feeling exceptionally smooth.
Shirahama Onsen | One of Japan's Three Ancient Hot Springs by a White Sandy Beach
Located in Wakayama Prefecture, Shirahama Onsen is one of Japan's Three Ancient Hot Springs. Featured in ancient texts like the *Nihon Shoki*, it has been cherished by imperial family members for centuries. Also famous as a beach resort with its beautiful Shirarahama Beach, it boasts a variety of spring qualities and abundant hot water.
Yunomine Onsen: A Sacred Hot Spring for Pilgrims on a World Heritage Trail
With a history of 1,800 years, Yunomine Onsen is one of Japan's oldest hot springs. As part of the UNESCO World Heritage 'Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range,' it has long served as a place for Kumano Kodo pilgrims to purify themselves and rest.
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Kaike Onsen: A Seaside Hot Spring Resort with Salt-Rich Waters
Located in Yonago City, Tottori Prefecture, Kaike Onsen is a leading hot spring resort in the San'in region, facing the Sea of Japan. It began when a fisherman discovered hot springs bubbling up from the sea floor in the Meiji era. Known for its salt-rich waters with excellent heat-retention properties, bathing here while gazing at the beautiful Yumigahama beach is a special experience.
Misasa Onsen | A World-Class Radon Spring for Healing Inside and Out
Located in Tottori Prefecture, Misasa Onsen is a radioactive spring boasting one of the world's highest radon concentrations. True to its name, meaning "three mornings," it has long been a therapeutic spa destination, believed to restore health after a three-day stay. The radon is said to boost immunity and natural healing powers through bathing, drinking, and inhalation.
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Tamatsukuri Onsen | A Fabled Hot Spring, Japan's Ancient Spa for Beautiful Skin
Mentioned in the 8th-century chronicle *Izumo no Kuni Fudoki*, Tamatsukuri is one of Japan's oldest onsen. Known as the "Hot Spring of the Gods," it has long been celebrated for its skin-beautifying properties.
Yunotsu Onsen: A World Heritage Hot Spring Town, A Timeless Healing Retreat
Registered as part of the 'Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine and its Cultural Landscape' World Heritage Site, Yunotsu Onsen has a history of about 1,300 years. The town retains the charming atmosphere of a traditional 'toji' (hot spring cure) resort. An authentic healing experience awaits in its two richly mineralized public bathhouses.
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Okutsu Onsen: A "Beauty Bath" Hot Spring Famous for its Foot-Washing Tradition
Located in northern Okayama Prefecture, Okutsu Onsen is one of the three great hot springs of the Mimasaka region. Situated along the clear Yoshii River, it has long been cherished as a "Bijin-no-yu" (beauty bath). The unique "ashibumi sentaku" (foot-washing) performance adds to its tranquil and soothing charm.
Yubara Onsen: Famed for 'Sunayu,' the Grand Champion of West Japan's Open-Air Baths
Located in northern Okayama Prefecture along the Asahi River, Yubara Onsen is renowned for its iconic open-air bath, 'Sunayu.' This mixed-gender bath at the foot of a dam is open 24/7, free of charge, and famous nationwide. Its gentle alkaline waters are also known as 'bijin-no-yu' or 'waters of beauty.'
Yunogo Onsen | Okayama's Famed "Heron's Spring" for Beautiful Skin
Located in Mimasaka, Okayama, Yunogo Onsen is a historic hot spring resort said to have been discovered 1,200 years ago by a white heron. As one of the three great Mimasaka springs, it is beloved as a "Bijin no Yu" (Spring of Beauty).
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Nagato Yumoto Onsen: A Stylish, Reborn Riverside Hot Spring Town
This is Yamaguchi Prefecture's oldest onsen, with a history of about 600 years. A recent redevelopment, including by Hoshino Resorts, has transformed it into a chic town with terraces and cafes along the Otozure River, perfect for a stroll.
Tawarayama Onsen: The "Yokozuna of the West," a Famed Tōji Hot Spring
Nestled in the mountains of Nagato, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Tawarayama Onsen is a hot spring town with a history of about 1,100 years. Long cherished for its therapeutic bathing (tōji), its excellent water quality has earned it the title "Yokozuna (Grand Champion) of the West."
Yuda Onsen | Yamaguchi's Urban Oasis of the White Fox Legend
In the heart of Yamaguchi City, Yuda Onsen boasts an 800-year history and a legend of a white fox healing its wounds. Known for its abundant, high-temperature (over 70°C) water, the town is dotted with free footbaths for all to enjoy. It's a hot spring town where history and modernity meet.
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Futsukaichi Onsen: An Ancient Hot Spring Praised in Man'yoshu Poetry
Just a 15-minute train ride from Fukuoka City, Futsukaichi Onsen is a historic hot spring area with a legacy of over 1,300 years, even appearing in the ancient Man'yoshu poetry anthology. It's close to Dazaifu, a place associated with Sugawara no Michizane, offering an easy way to enjoy historic walks and famous hot springs.
Harazuru Onsen | Fukuoka's Hot Spring for "Double Beauty" Waters
Located in Asakura, Fukuoka, along the Chikugo River, Harazuru Onsen is famous for its "W Bihada-no-Yu" or "double skin-beautifying waters." It boasts two spring types—Simple Weak Alkaline and Sulfur—known for their skin-smoothing and brightening effects.
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Furuyu Onsen | A tranquil Saga retreat for healing in lukewarm waters
Nestled in the mountains of Fuji-cho, Saga City, Furuyu Onsen boasts a rich history, said to have been discovered by Jofuku around 2,200 years ago. It is renowned for its lukewarm waters, around 38°C, making it a beloved therapeutic spa for long, relaxing soaks that soothe both mind and body.
Takeo Onsen: A 1,300-Year-Old "Beauty Bath" with an Iconic Tower Gate
Located in Saga Prefecture, Takeo Onsen is an ancient hot spring with 1,300 years of history. Its symbol is the vermilion Roumon gate, and historical figures like Miyamoto Musashi and Siebold are said to have bathed here. Its soft, alkaline waters are beloved as a "bihada no yu" (beauty bath).
Ureshino Onsen | One of Japan's Top 3 'Beautiful Skin' Hot Springs
Located in Saga Prefecture, Ureshino Onsen is celebrated as one of Japan's top three hot springs for beautiful skin. Its sodium bicarbonate-rich waters are famous for leaving the skin feeling exceptionally smooth. Enjoy the historic town, local Ureshino tea, and onsen yudofu.
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Obama Onsen: Japan's Hottest Spring with Stunning Sunset Views
Located in Unzen City, Nagasaki, Obama Onsen is famed for its incredibly hot spring source, reaching 105°C, and its abundant flow. Situated along the scenic Tachibana Bay, bathing while watching the beautiful sunset is an exceptional experience. The rising steam and sea breeze create a truly memorable atmosphere.
Unzen Onsen: A Highland Resort of Steaming Hells & Seasonal Beauty
Located on Nagasaki's Shimabara Peninsula, Unzen Onsen is a scenic highland resort designated as one of Japan's first national parks. The "Unzen Hells," where milky-white sulfurous waters boil and steam, offer a spectacular sight. Come heal your body and soul in this historic, nature-rich hot spring.
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Aso Uchinomaki Onsen: A Famed Hot Spring Village in the Aso Caldera
Nestled within a vast caldera overlooking the five peaks of Mt. Aso, Aso Uchinomaki Onsen boasts over 100 hot spring sources, offering a delightful variety of water qualities. This historic onsen town, beloved by literary figures like Natsume Soseki, is a perfect retreat to heal mind and body amidst magnificent nature.
Hinagu Onsen: A tranquil hot spring retreat in Kumamoto with 600 years of history
Overlooking the Yatsushiro Sea, Hinagu Onsen in Yatsushiro, Kumamoto, has a history of over 600 years. Loved by poets like Santoka Taneda, its gentle alkaline waters and nostalgic, traditional townscape offer a truly relaxing escape.
Kurokawa Onsen: A Charming Village for Onsen-Hopping
Nestled in the grand nature of Aso, this is one of Kumamoto's most iconic onsen towns. About 30 traditional inns line the valley, creating a unified, beautiful landscape under the concept of "the entire town is one big inn."
Tsuetate Onsen: A Retro Hot Spring Town Steaming with History
Nestled in a valley on the border of Kumamoto and Oita prefectures, Tsuetate Onsen boasts a history of about 1,800 years. Known as the "inner parlor of Kyushu," it charms visitors with its retro Showa-era townscape and abundant hot spring water.
Yamaga Onsen | A historic hot spring town with silky "beauty water"
Located in northern Kumamoto, Yamaga Onsen has over 800 years of history and once flourished as a post town. Its soft, alkaline waters are famed as "bijin-no-yu" (waters of beauty), with the historic Sakurayu bathhouse at its heart.
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Amagase Onsen | A Historic Hot Spring Town Along a Picturesque River
Located in Hita, Oita Prefecture, Amagase Onsen boasts a history of over 1,300 years. Famous for its wild, open-air riverside baths (kawayu), this onsen town offers a unique and rustic bathing experience amid the scenic beauty of the Kusu River valley.
Beppu Onsen | Japan's Top Hot Spring by Volume and Variety
Located in Oita Prefecture, Beppu Onsen is Japan's leading hot spring resort, boasting the largest number of springs and the highest volume of hot spring water. It consists of eight distinct spa areas known as the "Beppu Hatto," each offering unique spring qualities and atmospheres.
Kannawa Onsen | A Beppu Hot Spring Village of Rising Steam and Healing Waters
Kannawa Onsen is the heart of the Beppu hot spring resort area. Its iconic landscape of steam rising from the streets is a designated "Important Cultural Landscape of Japan." Known for its "Jigoku Meguri" (Hell Tour) and a therapeutic bathing culture dating back to the Kamakura period, it boasts a variety of spring qualities and abundant hot water.
Nagayu Onsen: Japan's Premier Carbonated Spring, the 'Soda Pop Spa'
Located in Taketa, Oita, Nagayu Onsen is renowned as one of Japan's leading carbonated hot springs, rich in CO2. Nicknamed 'Ramune Onsen' (soda pop spa) for its delightful bubbles, it also has a strong culture of therapeutic water drinking (insen).
Yufuin Onsen | A Serene Hot Spring Retreat in Nature and Art
Nestled at the foot of the majestic Mt. Yufu, this is one of Japan's most popular onsen resorts. It's known for its abundant, skin-friendly waters and a charming townscape dotted with art galleries, cafes, and boutiques.
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Ebino Kogen Onsen: Sulfur Springs in the Heart of the Kirishima Mountains
Ebino Kogen Onsen is a hot spring resort located at an altitude of 1,200 meters within Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park, Miyazaki. Popular as a base for trekking, it offers a sublime healing experience with its milky-white sulfur waters.
Kyomachi Onsen: A Tranquil Hot Spring Retreat in Rural Miyazaki
Located in Ebino, Miyazaki, Kyomachi Onsen is a historic hot spring village discovered in the Taisho era. Nestled in a peaceful rural landscape, it boasts abundant, free-flowing spring water. Its convenient access from the JR station makes it an easily accessible getaway.
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Ibusuki Onsen | Detox in a World-Famous Natural Sand Steam Bath
Located on the southeastern tip of Kagoshima's Satsuma Peninsula, Ibusuki Onsen is famous for its natural sand steam baths, a rarity in the world. Bury yourself in sand warmed by coastal hot springs for a relaxing experience that refreshes both mind and body.
Kirishima Onsen-go | A diverse hot spring village steeped in mythology
Kirishima Onsen-go is a collection of hot springs at the foot of the Kirishima Mountains. Known as the honeymoon spot of historical figure Ryoma Sakamoto, it's a place rich in myth and history, boasting diverse spring qualities and magnificent nature.
Myoken Onsen: A Historic Hot Spring Retreat Along the Amorigawa River
Nestled in a valley along the Amorigawa River and close to Kagoshima Airport, Myoken Onsen is a historic spa town once visited by Ryoma Sakamoto. It is renowned for its abundant, free-flowing spring water and diverse mineral qualities.