15 Best Onsen Towns in Japan
Relaxation and Rejuvenation: The Top Onsen Towns to Soothe Your Soul in Japan
Did you know that out of the approximately 1,500 volcanoes said to be active in the entire world, about 110 of them are located in Japan? This is why there are so many hot spring sources, and consequently, many Onsen towns (hot spring towns) all across the country.
These Onsen towns attract visitors seeking relaxation and healing of the body. Some have become especially popular, attracting visitors from around the world.
Embark on a captivating journey through the land of the rising sun as we delve into the 15 best onsen towns in Japan. Nestled amidst scenic landscapes, these towns offer a haven of relaxation, cultural immersion, and natural wonders. Immerse yourself in the rejuvenating waters, indulge in traditional rituals, and witness the fusion of natural beauty and Japanese hospitality. Join us as we unveil the secrets of Japan’s finest onsen towns, where tranquility and bliss await every traveler.
History of Onsen
Onsen, or hot springs, have a rich history deeply woven into the fabric of Japanese culture. This is due to the fact that there are over 100 active volcanoes in Japan, creating over 27,000 hot spring sources.
Dating back as far as the Jomon era (6,000 years ago), the practice of bathing in natural thermal waters gained popularity due to its believed healing properties. Initially, onsen served as a communal gathering place for locals and weary travelers.
Over time, they became ingrained in Japanese traditions and rituals. The therapeutic benefits, such as relaxation, improved circulation, and relief from ailments, contributed to their popularity.
Today, onsen not only provides physical rejuvenation but also offer a serene escape from the fast-paced modern world, fostering a sense of tranquility and balance deeply cherished in Japanese culture.
Japanese Onsen Etiquette: Dos and Don’ts
When visiting Japanese onsen, it’s helpful to know the “dos” and “don’ts” to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience. Bathing in hot springs is not a uniquely Japanese thing, however, the way you bathe in hot springs in Japan is very different compared to western countries. Therefore, it is important to know what these differences are.
Do follow proper etiquette, such as washing your body thoroughly before entering the bath, as cleanliness is highly valued. Do bring a small towel to use discreetly for modesty or to wipe off excess water. Do enjoy the peaceful ambiance and serenity of the onsen.
However, don’t enter the bath if you have open wounds or contagious conditions. Don’t wear swimwear inside the baths as onsen are typically enjoyed naked. Lastly, don’t use the towel to soak in the bath itself, as it’s intended for drying.
For more information about Japanese onsen etiquette, be sure to check out the following article.
Japanese Onsen Etiquette : Dos and Don’ts
Best Onsen Towns in Japan
1. Hakone, Kanagawa
We start our list with the most popular Onsen town you can access easily from Tokyo. Hakone (箱根), nestled in Kanagawa, is a captivating onsen town renowned for its close proximity to Tokyo and its allure as a hot spring haven. Just a short distance from the bustling capital, Hakone enchants visitors with breathtaking views of the iconic Mount Fuji.
The town’s popularity stems from its diverse selection of rejuvenating onsen. There are about 17 hot spring sources, offering a range of mineral-rich baths to soothe the weary traveler. The surrounding mountains also provide a tranquil moment for those visiting this town.
For more information about this Onsen town, be sure to check the following articles!
2. Kusatsu, Gunma
Next on this list, we have the city of Kusatsu (草津) in Gunma prefecture. This city stands as one of the nation’s three most renowned hot spring towns, drawing visitors from far and wide. What sets Kusatsu apart is its distinctive sulfuric waters, renowned for their healing properties.
The centerpiece of this charming town is the traditional Yubatake hot water field, where scalding hot spring water gushes forth and is cooled before it cascades into various baths. The mesmerizing sight of steam rising from the Yubatake is a testament to Kusatsu’s rich heritage and the therapeutic benefits of its hot springs.
For more information about this Onsen town, be sure to check the following article!
Kusatsu Onsen: Best Things to Do
3. Beppu, Oita
The next Onsen town is located on the picturesque southern island of Kyushu. Oita prefecture has the largest amount of hot spring sources in Japan (over 4,000), and one of the more popular towns is Beppu (別府). This is a captivating onsen town that beckons travelers with its renowned hot springs. It boasts a reputation for having Japan’s hottest spring sources, offering a truly unique and invigorating bathing experience.
Beppu presents an array of bath options, including traditional hot spring baths, but what truly sets it apart is the extraordinary sand and mud baths. These extraordinary natural wonders allow visitors to immerse themselves in warm, therapeutic sands or indulge in mineral-rich mud, believed to have therapeutic benefits.
For more information about this Onsen town, be sure to check the following articles!
Beppu Onsen : the Unique Hot Spring Town in Oita, Japan
4. Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
For the next destination, we go all the way north. Noboribetsu (登別), nestled in the scenic region of Hokkaido, stands as a premier hot spring destination. This captivating town captivates visitors with its volcanic landscape and the enchanting Jigokudani, or “Hell Valley.”
Exploring Jigokudani allows travelers to witness a mesmerizing spectacle of steaming craters and sulfurous vents, creating a truly otherworldly atmosphere. The mineral-rich waters that flow from these geological wonders provide the perfect opportunity for a revitalizing dip in one of Noboribetsu’s many hot spring baths. Having various types of hot spring sources (each said to have different healing properties) in a single Onsen town is one of the unique traits of Noboribetsu.
For more information about this Onsen town, be sure to check the following article!