Hot springs, “onsen” in Japanese, are a long-standing tradition in Japan, offering a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the changing seasons of nature and to heal the mind and body. In this article, we have carefully selected and featured 10 best hot spring destinations from various regions of Japan.
Location Map
Best 10 Hot Springs in Japan
Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma)
| Quality of Spring Water | ★★★★★(5 out of 5) |
| Accessibility | ★★★★☆(4 out of 5) |
| Atmosphere | ★★★★☆(4 out of 5) |
| Sightseeing Attractions | ★★★★★(5 out of 5) |
Definitely one of Japan’s best hot springs, renowned for its exceptionally high-quality spring water. Steam rises in the heart of town, and foot-baths that can be used for free are available everywhere. This popular destination boasts a variety of restaurants and souvenir shops, creating a lively atmosphere year-round.
Spring Water Quality: Sulfur Springs, Acidic Springs, Chloride Springs
Access: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes by express train from Tokyo + 30 minutes by bus, or 4 hours by highway bus.
Hakone Yumoto Onsen (Kanagawa)
| Quality of Spring Water | ★★★★☆(4 out of 5) |
| Accessibility | ★★★★★(5 out of 5) |
| Atmosphere | ★★★☆☆(3 out of 5) |
| Sightseeing Attractions | ★★★★★(5 out of 5) |
Among Japan’s most famous hot springs, Hakone Yumoto Onsen boasts excellent accessibility, high-quality spring water, abundant sightseeing spots, and breathtaking natural beauty, ensuring satisfaction for all visitors. By taking the Hakone Tozan Railway deeper into the mountains, one can also visit other hot springs in Hakone village such as Gora Onsen and Miyanoshita Onsen.
Spring Water Quality: Simple Hot Springs, Chloride Springs
Access: Approximately 75 minutes by Romancecar from Tokyo.
Arima Onsen (Hyogo)
| Quality of Spring Water | ★★★★★(5 out of 5) |
| Accessibility | ★★★★☆(4 out of 5) |
| Atmosphere | ★★★★★(5 out of 5) |
| Sightseeing Attractions | ★★★☆☆(3 out of 5) |
Often regarded as one of the best hot springs in Japan, Arima Onsen exudes an atmosphere of old-world charm. Lined with historic architecture and ryokan, the town exudes a tranquil ambiance. Recommended for couples and those interested in history and culture. The contrast between the ferruginous springs, known as the “Golden Bath,” and the radioactive springs, called the “Silver Bath,” is distinctive.
Spring Water Quality: Simple Hot Springs, Carbon Dioxide Springs, Carbonate Springs, Chloride Springs, Sulfate Springs, Ferrunbginous Springs, Radioactive Springs
Access: Approximately 30 minutes by Hankyu Kobe Line from Kobe, or 1 hour by Hankyu Line from Osaka.
Kinosaki Onsen (Hyogo)
| Quality of Spring Water | ★★★★☆(4 out of 5) |
| Accessibility | ★★★★☆(4 out of 5) |
| Atmosphere | ★★★★★(5 out of 5) |
| Sightseeing Attractions | ★★★☆☆(3 out of 5) |
Kinosaki Onsen is a small hot spring town nestled in the mountains of Hyogo Prefecture. With its nostalgic atmosphere, visitors can enjoy “sotoyu-meguri,” where one ticket grants access to seven different hot springs. It’s the perfect destination for couples and those interested in history and culture to stroll along the river in traditional kimono attire.
Spring Water Quality: Chloride Springs
Access: Approximately 2 hours 40 minutes by express train from Osaka, or 2 hours 20 minutes by express train from Kyoto.
Beppu Onsen (Oita)
| Quality of Spring Water | ★★★★★(5 out of 5) |
| Accessibility | ★★★★☆(4 out of 5) |
| Atmosphere | ★★★☆☆(3 out of 5) |
| Sightseeing Attractions | ★★★★★(5 out of 5) |
Beppu boasts the largest volume of hot spring water in Japan and is also renowned for its high-quality spring water. The “Hell Tour” in Beppu is a must-do activity, where visitors are overwhelmed by the power of nature. Beppu city not only has numerous bath facilities, but also offers opportunities to enjoy fresh seafood.
Spring Water Quality: Simple Hot Springs, Carbon Dioxide Springs, Carbonate Springs, Chloride Springs
Access: Approximately 2 hours by express train from Fukuoka Hakata.
Dogo Onsen (Ehime)
| Quality of Spring Water | ★★★★☆(4 out of 5) |
| Accessibility | ★★★☆☆(3 out of 5) |
| Atmosphere | ★★★☆☆(3 out of 5) |
| Sightseeing Attractions | ★★★★☆(4 out of 5) |
Dogo Onsen is known for its 3,000-year history as a “literary landmark.” The Dogo Onsen Main Building, designated as an important cultural property, is a must-visit architectural gem. The town is well-equipped with accommodations and restaurants, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Spring Water Quality: Simple Hot Springs
Access: Approximately 20 minutes by tram from Matsuyama, or 90 minutes by plane from Tokyo followed by 1 hour by limousine bus.
Noboribetsu Onsen (Hokkaido)
| Quality of Spring Water | ★★★★★(5 out of 5) |
| Accessibility | ★★★★☆(4 out of 5) |
| Atmosphere | ★★★☆☆(3 out of 5) |
| Sightseeing Attractions | ★★★★☆(4 out of 5) |
Noboribetsu Onsen, renowned for its high-quality hot springs, is particularly well-known among the many fine hot springs in Hokkaido. Access from Sapporo is relatively easy. As you can enjoy skiing and hiking in Hokkaido, Noboribetsu Onsen is especially recommended for nature lovers.
Spring Water Quality: Carbonate Springs, Chloride Springs, Sulfate Springs, Ferrunbginous Springs, Sulfur Springs, Acidic Springs, Radioactive Springs
Access: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR Noboribetsu Station, or 70 minutes by express train from Sapporo.
Kinugawa Onsen (Tochigi)
| Quality of Spring Water | ★★★☆☆(3 out of 5) |
| Accessibility | ★★★★★(5 out of 5) |
| Atmosphere | ★★★☆☆(3 out of 5) |
| Sightseeing Attractions | ★★★★☆(4 out of 5) |
Kinugawa Onsen, with excellent access from Tokyo, has long been known as one of the largest hot spring resorts in the Kanto region. In addition to its rich variety of tourist spots and activities, the area offers abundant natural beauty. The autumn foliage season is especially recommended.
Spring Water Quality: Simple Hot Springs
Access: Approximately 2 hours by express train from Tokyo.
Gero Onsen (Gifu)
| Quality of Spring Water | ★★★★★(5 out of 5) |
| Accessibility | ★★★☆☆(3 out of 5) |
| Atmosphere | ★★★☆☆(3 out of 5) |
| Sightseeing Attractions | ★★★★☆(4 out of 5) |
Gero Onsen is often chosen as one of Japan’s best hot springs for its quality of spring water. The smooth and silky water is said to be good for the skin. The hot spring town is filled with restaurants, ryokan and shops, and there are also nearby famous tourist spots such as “Gassho Village.”
Spring Water Quality: Simple Hot Springs
Access: Approximately 90 minutes by express train from Nagoya.
Kurokawa Onsen (Kumamoto)
| Quality of Spring Water | ★★★★☆(4 out of 5) |
| Accessibility | ★★☆☆☆(2 out of 5) |
| Atmosphere | ★★★★★(5 out of 5) |
| Sightseeing Attractions | ★★☆☆☆(2 out of 5) |
Located in the mountains of Kumamoto Prefecture, the small hot spring village of Kurokawa exudes a calm atmosphere. Known for its beautiful nature and reputable spring water quality, the town offers a small number of high-quality ryokan. Recommended for those seeking a quiet and refined experience.
Spring Water Quality: Simple Hot Springs, Carbonate Springs, Chloride Springs, Sulfate Springs, Ferrunbginous Springs, Sulfur Springs
Access: Approximately 3 hours by highway bus from Fukuoka Hakata.
Other Recommended Hot Springs
Hottarakashi Onsen (Yamanashi Prefecture): A popular daily use hot spring facility where visitors can enjoy views of Mount Fuji. Features two different baths, each with unique characteristics.
Nyuto Onsen (Akita Prefecture): Known as one of Japan’s top secluded hot springs, characterised by its milky white water. Access can be challenging, but it’s worth the visit.
Ginzan Onsen (Yamagata Prefecture): This hot spring town hidden in the mountains has a highly enchanting atmosphere. It is recommended to leisurely stay here while immersing yourself in its nostalgic ambiance.
There are important manners to follow when having a bath at onsen in Japan. If it’s your first time, please be sure to read “Onsen Etiquette in Japan and How to Bathe” before visiting.
Take a break from the constant hustle and bustle of daily life, immerse yourself in the blessings of nature, heal your minds and bodies, and enjoy a blissful moment of rejuvenation!
