Cover Yunomine Onsen, a hidden mountain village abundant in mineral-rich, steaming hot springs, is one of Japan’s oldest onsen towns (Photo: Kumano Hongu Tourist Association)
Yunomine Onsen, a hidden mountain village abundant in mineral-rich, steaming hot springs, is one of Japan’s oldest onsen towns (Photo: Kumano Hongu Tourist Association)
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Japan is always a good idea! For your next trip to the Land of the Rising Sun, skip the crowd in Tokyo and head to an onsen destination amid serene nature for a much-needed R&R session
Onsen are natural hot springs found throughout Japan, celebrated for their mineral-rich waters believed to offer myriad health benefits. No matter the season, these thermal retreats provide the perfect escape, whether you’re seeking refuge from the cold in winter or enjoying a refreshing bath in spring.
The history of onsen spans over 1,300 years, and these hot springs have always been revered for their healing properties. In the ancient times, Japanese royalty embraced the practice of bathing in onsen to cure illnesses. Over time, the use of onsens expanded to become a popular leisure activity enjoyed by people from all walks of life.
Onsen culture is integral to Japanese culture, often intertwined with the ryokan tradition—a form of hospitality centred around traditional inns featuring tatami-matted rooms and communal baths.
Because these are communal baths, it’s essential to be mindful of onsen etiquette: many establishments prohibit tattoos and require full nudity once you enter the bathing room, so it’s wise to check policies beforehand.
Here, we present seven of the finest onsen destinations for your next trip to Japan.
Read more: Japan by Design: 5 best ryokan-inspired hotels to visit
1. Manza Onsen in Gunma prefecture
Nestled at 1,800 metres in the mountains of Gunma, Manza Onsen is renowned for its high-altitude waters rich in sulphur. Milky white water, with an average temperature of around 80 degrees Celsius, is celebrated for its healing effects on the skin and body, promoting blood circulation, alleviating joint pain and even providing relief for certain skin conditions.
The open-air baths at Manza Onsen allow guests to enjoy the beautiful seasonal scenery—vibrant green in spring, refreshing coolness in summer, stunning leaves in autumn and crisp snow in winter—making it a highly recommended destination for nature lovers. Its accessibility from Tokyo makes it a popular choice for a quick getaway.
Address: 2401 Hoshimata, Tsumagoi-mura, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma Prefecture, Japan
2. Nyuto Onsen in Akita prefecture
A hidden gem, Nyuto Onsen boasts a rich history spanning over 300 years and is famous for its rustic charm and diverse array of onsen types. Nestled within lush forests, it features seven uniquely styled onsen facilities, renowned for their rare mixed-gender bathing experience. Each spring offers distinct water sources and therapeutic qualities. For instance, Tsurunoyu Onsen is reputed to alleviate high blood pressure and skin ailments, while Taenoyu Onsen is beneficial for skin conditions and gastrointestinal issues. Ganiba Onsen is said to assist with diabetes.
The seven onsens are conveniently located within a short distance of each other, with many just a five-minute walk apart, making them accessible for elderly visitors as well.
Address: Tazawako Tazawa, Semboku 014-1204 Akita Prefecture, Japan
3. Hirauchi Onsen on Yakushima island
Above Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen is set right by the ocean. (Photo: Discover Kagoshima)
Hirauchi Kaichu Onsen is set right by the ocean. (Photo: Discover Kagoshima)
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Hirauchi Onsen is one of the most unique hot springs on Yakushima Island, where numerous options abound. This onsen emerges from the sea, utilising the natural depressions in the rocky shore to create soaking pools. Despite its simple facilities, it enjoys immense popularity. The onsen is only revealed during low tide, which occurs twice a day, and the best time for bathing is typically two hours before and after the tide recedes.
Soaking in the warm waters without any barriers, visitors can admire the ebb and flow of the tides alongside fellow travellers, savouring the moments of connection with nature. This experience is perhaps what city dwellers yearn for the most.
Address: Hirauchi, Yakushima, Kumage District, Kagoshima 891-4406, Japan
4. Yunomine Onsen in Wakayama prefecture
Above Yunomine Onsen is one of Japan’s oldest hot springs. (Photo: Kumano Hongu Tourist Association)
Yunomine Onsen is one of Japan’s oldest hot springs. (Photo: Kumano Hongu Tourist Association)
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Tucked away in a small valley deep within the sacred Kumano mountain range, Yunomine Onsen features several charming, traditional inns. It was discovered approximately 1,800 years ago and is considered one of Japan’s oldest hot springs. A unique and delicious experience here is cooking eggs in the public bath known as yuzutsu, where these eggs are referred to as “onsen tamago” or “hot spring eggs”.
Yunomine Onsen also includes Tsuboyu, a public bath designated as a Unesco World Heritage site. This small, rock-enclosed onsen is said to change colours seven times a day due to changes in temperature and humidity. Although it can only accommodate three adults at a time, with a maximum bathing duration of 30 minutes, its rich history and tranquil setting make it a sought-after onsen destination in Japan.
Address: Shimoyukawa, Hongu-cho, Tanabe-shi, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan
5. Kurokawa Onsen in Kumamoto prefecture
In a picturesque riverside town, Kurokawa Onsen offers an authentic Japanese ryokan experience alongside charming countryside hot springs. The inns here are renowned for their scenic outdoor baths that provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains and riverbanks.
Kurokawa Onsen boasts seven distinct types of hot springs, each with unique benefits. Whether you’re seeking relief from fatigue and stress, a brighter complexion, warmth for cold hands and feet or a way to alleviate high blood pressure, you’ll find the perfect soak here. The streets of the onsen town are lined with dessert shops, where you can indulge in treats like mochi dorayaki (classic Japanese honey pancake sandwich) and hot red bean soup with mochi. If you’re travelling to Kyūshū, a day trip or an overnight stay is a wonderful choice for anyone looking to relax and recharge.
Address: Manganji, Minamioguni, Aso District, Kumamoto 869-2402, Japan
6. Beppu Onsen in Oita prefecture
Beppu Onsen is a vibrant hot spring destination known for its diverse range of mineral-rich waters, from chloride to bicarbonate springs. Many of the baths are reputed to help alleviate conditions such as neuralgia, rheumatism and fatigue.
A standout feature of Beppu Onsen is its famous “mud baths”, where natural mud creates a unique thermal experience. The mud is packed with powerful minerals, offering relief from pain and remarkable skin-enhancing benefits. However, because of the high mineral content, children are not permitted to use these baths.
Address: 12-13 Ekimae-cho, Beppu-shi, Oita Prefecture, Japan
7. Ginzan Onsen in Yamagata prefecture
Ginzan Onsen is a charming hot spring village steeped in historical Japanese ambience. Nestled in a lush natural setting, it features a stunning array of ryokan that preserve the architectural style of the Taisho era, exuding a romantic atmosphere at every turn.
The true allure of Ginzan Onsen lies in its ability to provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Visitors can unwind in the soothing hot springs or enjoy a traditional foot bath, which promotes blood circulation and enhances metabolism.
Address: 85 Ginzan Shinhata, Obanazawa-shi, Yamagata Prefecture, Japan
