Onsen are Japanese hot springs and are a popular tourist destination. There are many onsen towns in Japan, each with its own unique atmosphere. Here are 10 of the best onsen towns in Japan.
Kusatsu Onsen – Gunma Prefecture
There are many hot springs in the town, and the water is said to have healing properties. Visitors can enjoy the hot springs, as well as the scenic views. It is one of the most popular onsen towns in Japan, and is known for its high-quality hot springs. Kusatsu Onsen is a hot spring town located in Gunma Prefecture. The town is situated in a valley, and is surrounded by mountains.
Hakone Onsen – Kanagawa Prefecture
Fuji while soaking in the hot springs, making Hakone a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate. Hakone Onsen is one of the most popular onsen towns in Japan, located in Kanagawa Prefecture just outside of Tokyo. The town is home to many different hot springs, as well as a number of traditional ryokan inns. Visitors can enjoy views of Mt.
Beppu Onsen – Oita Prefecture
Beppu Onsen is a town located in Oita Prefecture on the island of Kyushu. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as soaking in the hot springs, exploring the nearby mountains, and visiting the many temples and shrines in the area. The town is famous for its hot springs, which are said to have healing properties. There are over 2,000 hot springs in Beppu, making it one of the most popular onsen towns in Japan.
Yufuin Onsen – Oita Prefecture
Yufuin Onsen is a popular destination for both Japanese and foreign tourists. Yufuin Onsen is a small hot spring town located in Oita Prefecture on the island of Kyushu. The town is surrounded by mountains and is known for its scenic views. There are many hot springs in the area, as well as a number of ryokan (traditional Japanese inns).
Arima Onsen – Hyogo Prefecture
The town is home to two public bath houses, as well as a number of private ryokans (traditional Japanese inns). Arima Onsen is a popular destination for both Japanese and foreign tourists, as it offers a variety of activities and attractions. Arima Onsen is a town located in Hyogo Prefecture, and is one of the oldest onsen towns in Japan.
Noboribetsu Onsen – Hokkaido Prefecture
The area is renowned for its beautiful scenery, and its hot springs are said to have healing properties. Noboribetsu Onsen is one of Japan’s most famous hot spring resorts, and is located in Hokkaido Prefecture. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities in Noboribetsu Onsen, including hiking, skiing, and soaking in the hot springs.
Kinosaki Onsen – Hyogo Prefecture
Visitors can also enjoy strolling around the town’s quaint streets and taking in the views. The town is situated in a picturesque setting, surrounded by mountains and with a river running through it. Kinosaki Onsen is one of Japan’s most popular onsen towns, located in Hyogo Prefecture. There are seven public baths in Kinosaki Onsen, each with its own unique features.
Fujikawaguchiko Onsen – Yamanashi Prefecture
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, hot spring bathing, and exploring the local shops and restaurants. The town is home to many hot springs, as well as a number of ryokan and hotels. Fujikawaguchiko Onsen is one of the most popular onsen towns in Japan. Located in Yamanashi Prefecture, it is known for its stunning views of Mount Fuji.
Nyuto Onsen Village – Akita Prefecture
Nyuto Onsen Village is located in the Akita Prefecture of Japan and is known for its hot springs. Visitors can enjoy soaking in the springs, as well as hiking and exploring the nearby mountains. The village is home to seven different hot springs, all of which are said to have healing properties.
Shibu – Nagano Prefecture
Nagano Prefecture is home to some of Japan’s most beautiful onsen towns. Shibu Onsen is one of the most popular, known for its nine traditional inns and quaint streets. The town is located in the heart of the Japanese Alps and is a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is an onsen?
An onsen is a hot spring that is used for bathing. Onsens are found all over Japan and are a popular tourist attraction.
2. What are the benefits of bathing in an onsen?
Bathing in an onsen is said to have many health benefits, such as relieving stress, improving circulation, and helping to detoxify the body.
3. How do I know if an onsen is good quality?
The quality of an onsen is determined by the mineral content of the water. The higher the mineral content, the better the quality of the onsen.
4. What should I do if I don’t have a bathing suit?
Most onsens require that you bathe naked. If you don’t have a bathing suit, you can usually rent one at the onsen.
5. Can I use an onsen if I have a tattoo?
Some onsens do not allow people with tattoos to use the facilities. If you have a tattoo, you should check with the onsen before you go to see if they have any restrictions.
6. What is the best time of year to visit an onsen town?
The best time to visit an onsen town is in the autumn or spring when the weather is mild.
7. What should I do if I get too hot while bathing in an onsen?
If you get too hot while bathing in an onsen, you can cool off by dipping your hand in the cold water that is usually provided.
8. What should I do with my belongings while I’m bathing?
You should leave your belongings in the locker room while you are bathing. Most onsens have lockers that you can use to store your belongings.
9. Can I take pictures while I’m in the onsen?
You should not take pictures while you are in the onsen. This is considered to be rude and disrespectful.
10. What are some other things to do in an onsen town?
In addition to bathing in the onsen, you can also enjoy the many other attractions that onsen towns have to offer, such as hiking, hot springs, and traditional Japanese inns.
Final thoughts
After reading about all of these amazing onsen towns, it’s hard to decide which one to visit first. They all offer something unique and special that is sure to please any traveler. No matter which town you choose to visit, you are sure to have a heavenly experience.