5 Best Hot Spring Towns in Japan

Are you a big fan of hot springs ("onsen")?

Or are you interested in trying hot springs for the first time, while it might be a bit intimidating to share a bath with strangers fully naked?

Whatever your reason is, I am glad you landed here because I will share with you my top 5 hot spring towns in Japan. There are so many great hot spring towns in Japan that this is simply my recommendation based on my own experiences.

1. Atami Onsen 熱海温泉

Conveniently located in Shizuoka Prefecture, only 45 minutes by shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo, Atami Onsen is popular for its spectacular ocean view, tropical resort atmosphere, fresh seafood, art and history entertainments, fireworks throughout the year, and many more. The town was built on mountain hills, and you get to enjoy hot springs with an ocean view.

You can simply stop by on your way to Osaka and stay one night in Atami.

2. Nasu Onsen 那須温泉

Located on the eastern slope of an active volcano, Mt. Nasu, in Tochigi Prefecture, Nasu Onsen has been around for over 1300 years as one of the oldest hot springs in Japan. A variety of hot spring experiences await you here, public hot springs for just a few dollars, indoor and outdoor baths, as well as private hot springs at one of the traditional Japanese inns ("ryokan").

You can also enjoy rich outdoor activities such as hiking, safari parks, and zoos in the magnificent Nasu Kogen highlands.

3. Beppu Onsen 別府温泉

Beppu Onsen boasts Japan's largest hot springs in terms of both volume and number of sources. A "Jigoku Meguri" tour of seven naturally gushing springs, including the nationally designated "Umi-Jigoku" (sea hell), is a popular sightseeing spot that cannot be missed.

It is close to Lake Shidakako and Kijima Kogen for those who would like to enjoy outdoor recreations such as camping, barbecue, golf, and amusement parks.

4. Kusatsu Onsen 草津温泉

Located at an altitude of 1,200 meters and boasting an abundance of hot spring water, Kusatsu Onsen is famous for its symbolic Yubatake (湯畑 "hot water field"), one of the resort's main sources of hot spring water. There are footbaths and handbaths, as well as a rare hot spring spot for bathing the face.

For those who enjoy skiing, Mt. Tengu next to the town offers skiing in the winter and grass skiing from spring to fall.

5. Arima Onsen 有馬温泉

Located approximately 30 minutes by train from the fashionable international city of Kobe, Arima Onsen is one of the three most famous hot springs in Japan. Its appeal lies in the fact that it contains a mixture of seven of the nine main ingredients designated by the Japan Ministry of the Environment as therapeutic hot springs, which is a rarity in the world.

This nostalgic resort town offers waterfront parks along the Arima River and plenty of gourmet street foods. The best season to visit is fall for autumn leaves.

Finally, just be aware that some public hot springs still prohibit people with tattoos. It is safe to check a rule before your visit. Alternatively, you can always find a ryokan that has a private hot spring attached to your room; that way, you can enjoy a fully private hot spring experience with your loved ones regardless of your gender, tattoos, or fear.

You can contact a BIWA Travel Japan expert today for a free initial planning call.