Japan's Three Famous Hot Springs
Arima Onsen, located in Hyogo Prefecture, is one of Japan's oldest and most famous hot spring resorts. Known for its unique mineral-rich waters, including the golden and silver springs, it offers a relaxing experience. Visitors can enjoy traditional ryokan stays and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
Kusatsu Onsen, located in Gunma Prefecture, is one of Japan’s top three onsens, alongside Gero Onsen and Arima Onsen. Known for its high-quality sulfuric waters, Kusatsu is famous for its healing properties. Visitors can enjoy the iconic Yubatake (hot water field), soak in public baths, and relax in traditional ryokan.
Gero Onsen in Gifu Prefecture is one of Japan’s most renowned hot spring resorts, offering healing mineral-rich waters in a scenic setting. Visitors can enjoy public baths, traditional ryokan, and outdoor onsens, making it the perfect place for relaxation and experiencing authentic Japanese onsen culture.
Popular Hot Springs
The Hells of Beppu, known as Jigoku Meguri, are hot spring attractions with steaming blue pools, bubbling mud, and dramatic geothermal landscapes in Oita, Kyushu.
Nagashima Onsen Yuami no Shima is a massive hot spring resort next to Nagashima Spa Land. With outdoor baths, saunas, private rooms, and seasonal themes, it’s the perfect place to relax after a day of rides or shopping.
Sumoto Onsen on Awaji Island is a coastal hot spring town where visitors can soak in healing baths, stay in ryokan, and enjoy fresh island seafood.
Tamatsukuri Onsen in Shimane blends ancient legends with healing waters, scenic walks, and traditional inns for the ultimate Japanese hot spring escape.
Nanki-Shirahama Onsen in Wakayama is one of Japan’s oldest hot spring resorts, offering beachside baths, scenic views, and relaxing ryokan stays.
Ikaho Onsen is a historic hot spring town in Gunma with iron-rich golden water, 365 stone steps, old-style ryokan, and a relaxed, nostalgic vibe.
Kawaji Onsen is a quiet onsen village in the mountains of Tochigi. Surrounded by forest and river views, it’s a place to slow down and enjoy rural Japan.
Nasu Onsen is a relaxing mountain getaway in Tochigi Prefecture, known for hot springs, outdoor adventures, and cozy countryside charm.
Kinugawa Onsen is a historic onsen town in Tochigi where river views, open-air baths, and old-school Japan charm come together, just 2 hours from Tokyo.
Akiu Onsen is a peaceful hot spring town just a short drive from Sendai City, in Miyagi Prefecture. It has been loved by locals and travelers for more than 1,500 years, and was even visited by Japan’s first emperor, Emperor Jomei.
Unzen Onsen, set in volcanic Unzen-Amakusa National Park, is famed for sulfuric steam vents and "Hell" landscapes. Relax in rejuvenating hot springs while exploring Unzen Jigoku, a surreal geothermal area. Its mountain setting offers cooler summers and stunning autumn foliage.
Nestled in the mountains, this historic onsen town boasts some of Japan’s most sulfur-rich waters, perfect for soothing aches and revitalizing the spirit. Popular year-round, its hot springs pair beautifully with nearby skiing in winter and scenic hiking trails in warmer months, offering something for every traveler.
Experience timeless charm in this picturesque onsen town, famed for its Taisho-era architecture, cobblestone streets, and iconic wooden inns. Nestled in a serene valley, the area becomes enchanting at night when lanterns illuminate the streets, creating a magical ambiance perfect for relaxation.
Iizaka Onsen, an atmospheric, old onsen town believed to have been discovered around 2,000 years ago, offers therapeutic hot springs and scenic beauty. The town exudes a traditional charm, with ryokan inns offering peaceful retreats and picturesque views of the surrounding mountains, perfect for relaxation.
Tsuchiyu Onsen is a peaceful hot spring town in Fukushima, famous for its rejuvenating waters and scenic mountain surroundings. Visitors can enjoy soothing baths while surrounded by lush nature, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and wellness. Experience traditional ryokan hospitality here
Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama blends 3,000 years of history, healing waters, and Meiji-era charm. Here’s how to enjoy Japan’s most famous hot spring like a local.
Nestled in Akita’s mountains, Nyuto Onsen is a hot spring village of seven rustic ryokan, each with unique baths, historic charm, and unspoiled nature.
Types of Onsen in Japan
From mountain-side baths to private retreats, here are the most common styles of hot springs you can experience across the country.
Rotenburo（露天風呂）
An open-air bath, often surrounded by nature. One of the most relaxing and scenic types of onsen, perfect for all seasons.
Kashikiri Buro（貸切風呂）
A private onsen that you can rent for yourself or with family. Great for couples, families, or those shy about public baths.
Ashiyu（足湯）
A foot bath usually found in towns or rest stops. Free, easy to use, and great for a quick warm-up.
Sento（銭湯）
Not technically an onsen, but a public bath that uses regular water. Common in cities, often with retro vibes.
Konyoku（混浴）
Mixed-gender onsen, now rare in Japan. Some offer rental towels or bathing suits to make it easier for foreigners.
Super Sento（スーパー銭湯）
Large, modern bath facilities with multiple tubs, saunas, restaurants, and rest areas. Often open late and family-friendly.
Common Onsen Etiquette
Visiting an onsen for the first time? Don’t worry, here are the most important things to know to enjoy the experience respectfully and comfortably.
Wash Thoroughly Before Entering
Before entering the bath, use the shower area to clean your body. Wash your hair if it’s dirty. Cleanliness is essential – this is not just polite, it’s required.
No Swimsuits Allowed
In traditional onsen, everyone bathes nude. Swimsuits or undergarments are not allowed. Towels also should not be brought into the bath.
Tattoos May Be an Issue
Many onsen restrict entry if you have tattoos. Check beforehand or look for tattoo-friendly onsen, which are becoming more common.
No Photography
Photography is usually prohibited inside bathing areas to protect privacy. Some places allow photos outside the baths. Ask staff if unsure.
Keep Quiet and Relaxed
Onsen is a peaceful place. Loud talking, splashing, or rowdy behavior is discouraged. Most people go there to unwind in silence.
Don’t Wash in the Bathtub
Use the shower area to wash. The bath is only for soaking, not for soap or shampoo.
Tie Up Long Hair
If you have long hair, tie it up to keep it out of the water. It’s a hygiene must.
No Diving or Swimming
Even if the bath is large, it’s not a pool! Just sit and soak.
