Natural hot springs (onsen) are numerous and highly popular across
Japan. Every region of the country has its share of hot springs and resort towns, which come with them.
There are many types of hot springs, distinguished by the minerals dissolved in the water. Different minerals provide different health benefits, and all hot springs are supposed to have a relaxing effect on your body and mind. Hot spring baths come in many varieties, indoors and outdoors, gender separated and mixed, developed and undeveloped. Many hot spring baths belong to a ryokan, while others are public bath houses. An overnight stay at a hot spring ryokan is a highly recommended experience to any visitor of Japan.
Hakone has been one of Japan's most popular hot spring resorts for centuries. Nowadays, more than a dozen springs provide hot spring water to the many bath houses and ryokan in the Hakone region.
See more: Hakone, a peaceful place in Japan
Manza Onsen
Manza Onsen is a hot spring resort town located 1800 meters above sea level, high up on the slopes of Mount Shirane at the northwestern edge of Gunma Prefecture. Its highly acidic waters are obtained from Mount Shirane and are among the most sulfuric in all of Japan. They are known to provide various health benefits through improving metabolism and blood circulation.
Kusatsu Onsen
Kusatsu Onsen (hot springs) is one of Japan’s most popular hot spring resorts. Yubatake is known for the quality of its hot spring water which flows from one of the country’s three major springs. Another popular attraction is ‘Yumomi’ – a traditional way of cooling down hot spring water by using large wooden paddles. A yumomi performance for tourists is held daily in the Netsu No Yu bathhouse next to the yubatake (admission 500 yen).
Yufuin Onsen
Yufuin is a lovely onsen town located in a small valley surrounded by mountains and is easily accessible on an express train or bus operating from Fukuoka city. For many years, Yufuin has been ranked one of the best onsen destinations in Japan. Its main street is lined with cafes, souvenir shops and small museums. When you arrive at Yufuin, a rotenburo (open air bath) is an absolute must. The town offers scenic views – as soon as you arrive at Yufuin you are bound to experience the town’s unique atmosphere and ambience.
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