Japan’s onsen (hot spring) culture is a cornerstone of its identity, offering relaxation, healing, and a deep connection to nature. For foreign visitors, soaking in mineral-rich waters surrounded by stunning scenery is an unforgettable experience. Here are the top 5 onsen towns you absolutely must explore:
1. Beppu (Oita Prefecture, Kyushu)
The “Hell” of Steam and Spectacle
Dubbed the “Hot Spring Capital of Japan,” Beppu boasts over 2,000 springs and 8 dramatic “Jigoku” (Hell) Ponds – colorful, boiling mineral pools for viewing, not bathing (like the cobalt-blue Umi Jigoku).
Must-Soak: Try unique baths like “Steam Baths” (sand or steam pits you’re buried in) or the iconic “Takegawara Onsen” with its giant wooden bathhouse.
Beyond the Bath: Explore hell ponds, eat Jigoku-mushi (food steamed using geothermal heat), and enjoy ocean views.
Foreigner-Friendly: Excellent English signage, diverse accommodation (luxury resorts to guesthouses), and easy bus access from Beppu Station.
2. Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma Prefecture, Honshu)
The Legendary Healing Waters
Renowned for Japan’s highest natural hot spring flow and powerfully acidic waters (pH 2.1) believed to cure ailments. The iconic Yubatake (“Hot Water Field”) in the town center is a mesmerizing steam spectacle.
Must-Soak: Witness “Yumomi” (traditional water-cooling with wooden paddles + folk songs) at Netsunoyu. Public baths like Sainokawara Rotenburo (huge open-air bath) are stunning.
Beyond the Bath: Hike Mt. Shirane, savor okayu (rice porridge cooked in spring water), and stroll Edo-period streets.
Foreigner-Friendly: Central Yubatake area is walkable, many ryokans offer private baths, and tourist info centers have English support.
3. Hakone (Kanagawa Prefecture, Honshu)
Onsen with a View of Mt. Fuji
Part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Hakone combines hot springs with iconic views of Mount Fuji (weather permitting!) and diverse attractions.
Must-Soak: Choose lake-side rotemburo (open-air baths) in Gora or historic baths in Tenzan Tōji-kyō. Many ryokans offer in-room onsens.
Beyond the Bath: Ride the Hakone Ropeway, cruise Lake Ashi, visit the Open-Air Museum, and savor black eggs (kuro-tamago) boiled in sulfur springs at Ōwakudani.
Foreigner-Friendly: Covered by the Hakone Free Pass (transport discount), excellent international dining, and easy day-trip access from Tokyo.
4. Noboribetsu Onsen (Hokkaido)
Japan’s Most Dynamic Volcanic Valley
Situated in Jigokudani (Hell Valley), this town offers steamy landscapes, volcanic craters, and 9 types of mineral springs (sulfur, iron, alum, etc.) for various health benefits.
Must-Soak: The public Oyunuma River Footbath (free!) or Dai-ichi Takimotokan – Japan’s largest hot spring facility with diverse baths. Ryokans often tap multiple spring sources.
Beyond the Bath: Hike Hell Valley’s boardwalks, see Oyunuma Lake, visit the Bear Park, and try Hokkaido seafood like kaisen-don (seafood rice bowl).
Foreigner-Friendly: Dramatic scenery feels uniquely Japanese, many large hotels cater to international guests, and it’s accessible from Sapporo.
5. Kinosaki Onsen (Hyogo Prefecture, Honshu)
The Quintessential Traditional Onsen Town
Step back in time in this charming Edo-period town lined with willow trees, canals, and 7 public bathhouses (soto-yu). Guests stroll in yukata (cotton robes) and geta (wooden sandals).
Must-Soak: Buy a Yumepa pass for access to all 7 baths (each with unique features – cave baths, rooftop views). Mandara-yu and Goshono-yu are highlights.
Beyond the Bath: Feed carp in the canals, enjoy riverside dining with Tajima beef (local wagyu), and visit the Onsen Temple.
Foreigner-Friendly: Immersive cultural experience. Many ryokans offer multi-lingual service, and the compact town is easily walkable. Direct train from Kyoto/Osaka.
Immerse Yourself in Onsen Bliss!
From Beppu’s geothermal wonders to Kinosaki’s nostalgic charm, these top 5 onsen towns offer unforgettable experiences blending relaxation, nature, and culture. Remember basic etiquette: wash thoroughly before entering, no towels in the water, and tattoos may require covering (check policies!). Pack your yukata and embrace the healing heart of Japan! ♨️