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Japan is a land of natural beauty, rich culture, and time-honored traditions. Among its most cherished customs is the onsen, or hot spring bath, a practice deeply rooted in Japanese history and a must-try experience for any traveler seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you are a first-timer or a seasoned onsen-goer, this guide will help you navigate the world of Japanese hot springs with ease.

What is an Onsen?

An onsen is a natural hot spring bath, often located in scenic areas such as mountains, forests, or seaside resorts. The water in an onsen is geothermally heated and is believed to have therapeutic properties, thanks to its rich mineral content. Many onsens are part of ryokan (traditional inns) or large resorts, offering a complete experience of Japanese hospitality.

Top Onsen Destinations in Japan

A popular getaway from Tokyo, Hakone is famous for its diverse onsen options, many of which offer stunning views of Mount Fuji. Visitors can experience outdoor baths with open-air panoramas, private onsen for more intimate relaxation, and even hot spring theme parks like Yunessun, where you can soak in baths infused with sake, wine, or green tea. Hakone also boasts numerous ryokan serving exquisite kaiseki cuisine, making it a perfect place for an overnight stay.

Located on the island of Kyushu, Beppu is one of Japan’s most famous hot spring towns. It features eight different hot spring areas, collectively known as the “Beppu Hells,” each offering a unique bathing experience. Here, you can try mud baths, sand baths where you are buried in warm volcanic sand, and even steam cooking. Beppu’s Jigoku Mushi cuisine, where ingredients like eggs, vegetables, and seafood are steamed using hot spring steam, is a must-try culinary experience.

Kusatsu is known for its highly acidic, sulfur-rich waters, which are said to have powerful healing properties. The town’s iconic Yubatake (hot water field) is a striking sight, where steaming mineral water flows through wooden conduits before being distributed to various bathhouses. Many ryokan in Kusatsu serve traditional mountain cuisine, including hotpot dishes like yudofu (tofu cooked in hot spring water) and local fish delicacies.

Noboribetsu, set in the dramatic landscape of Hokkaido, is home to Jigokudani (Hell Valley), where steaming vents and bubbling sulfuric waters create an otherworldly atmosphere. The onsen here contains a variety of minerals, each offering different health benefits. The town is also known for its delicious Hokkaido specialties, such as fresh seafood donburi (rice bowls topped with seafood), soup curry, and Genghis Khan (grilled lamb).

Kinosaki is a charming hot spring town with seven public bathhouses, each with its own unique character. Visitors can enjoy strolling in yukata (light cotton kimono) while hopping between the bathhouses. The town is famous for its exceptional seafood, particularly Matsuba crab, which is best enjoyed as sashimi, grilled, or in a hot pot. Local sake pairs perfectly with these dishes, completing the gourmet experience.

• Shower First: Before entering the bath, thoroughly cleanse your body at the provided shower stations.
• No Swimsuits: Onsens are typically enjoyed in the nude. If you are shy, consider visiting an onsen with private baths.
• Mind Your Towel: A small towel can be used to cover yourself when walking around, but do not dip it into the bath.
• Stay Hydrated: The hot water can dehydrate you, so drink plenty of fluids before and after your soak.
• Respect the Atmosphere: Onsens are places of relaxation, so keep noise levels low and be mindful of other bathers.

Tattoo-Friendly Onsens

Many traditional onsens still prohibit tattoos due to historical associations with the yakuza. However, times are changing, and more establishments are becoming tattoo-friendly. Some recommended tattoo-friendly onsens include:

• Hoshino Resorts KAI (various locations)
• Kusatsu Onsen Gozanoyu (Kusatsu)
• Funaoka Onsen (Kyoto)

  

  A Culinary Experience to Complement Your Onsen Visit

Each onsen town in Japan offers distinct local delicacies that enhance the overall experience. Some must-try culinary highlights include:

• Onsen Tamago – Soft-boiled eggs cooked in hot spring water, commonly found in many onsen towns.
• Jigoku Mushi (Beppu) – A unique cooking method where vegetables, seafood, and meats are steamed using natural hot spring vapors.
• Hida Beef (Gero Onsen and Takayama) – A premium wagyu beef known for its marbling and tenderness, often served as steak, sukiyaki, or in a shabu-shabu hot pot.
• Matsuba Crab (Kinosaki Onsen) – This prized winter delicacy is served in a variety of ways, including grilled, sashimi-style, or in luxurious hot pots.
• Soup Curry (Noboribetsu) – A rich, spicy curry soup filled with vegetables and meats, a specialty of Hokkaido that pairs perfectly with the cold climate.
• Kaiseki Ryori (Hakone, Kusatsu, and various ryokan) – A multi-course traditional Japanese meal featuring seasonal ingredients, beautifully presented to reflect the region’s culinary artistry.