Best Hot Springs in Japan: Top 10 Onsen Destinations
For centuries, Japan’s onsen (hot springs) have provided healing, relaxation, and a taste of authentic tradition. From steamy mountain retreats to seaside sand baths, each onsen town has its own unique charm. Join us as we guide you through ten of the most remarkable hot spring experiences across Japan.
What is an Onsen?
An onsen is a Japanese hot spring, created by natural geothermally heated groundwater. Onsens are found all across Japan, and have been loved for centuries as places for relaxation, healing, and connection with nature.
Top 10 Onsen Destinations List
1.🗻 Hakone Onsen
（箱根温泉）
Classic retreat with Mt. Fuji views
♨️
Just a short trip from Tokyo, Hakone is famous for its beautiful scenery, open-air baths, and relaxing ryokan. On a clear day, you can even see Mt. Fuji from some baths.
2.💧Kusatsu Onsen
（草津温泉）
Healing waters and lively hot spring town
🪣
Known for its powerful, mineral-rich waters and the iconic yubatake (hot water field), Kusatsu is loved for its healing effects and unique local traditions.
3.🌋Beppu Onsen
（別府温泉）
Hot spring city with steamy wonders
🌫️
Beppu is famous for its “hell tours,” steam rising everywhere, and a variety of unique baths—mud, sand, and even steam baths await visitors.
4.🥇Arima Onsen
（有馬温泉）
Ancient spring with golden and silver waters
🥈
Nestled in the mountains near Kobe, Arima is one of Japan’s oldest and most famous hot springs, known for its rare golden and silver waters.
5.👹Noboribetsu Onsen
（登別温泉）
Volcanic valley and a variety of mineral baths
🔥♨️
Set in Hokkaido’s dramatic volcanic landscape, Noboribetsu offers powerful, mineral-rich baths and the impressive “Hell Valley” (Jigokudani).
6.🐸Gero Onsen
（下呂温泉）
Silky waters and charming riverside town
🏞️
Celebrated as one of Japan’s top three hot springs, Gero is beloved for its smooth, gentle waters and relaxed town atmosphere.
7.🌾Yufuin Onsen
（湯布院温泉）
Relaxing countryside escape
🎨
Surrounded by peaceful countryside, Yufuin is famous for its art galleries, cozy cafes, and beautiful views of Mount Yufu.
8. 🏯Dogo Onsen
（道後温泉））
Timeless bathhouse with historic charm
📚♨️
Known as Japan’s oldest hot spring, Dogo features a historic wooden bathhouse and has inspired writers and artists for generations.
9.🛤️Kinosaki Onsen
（城崎温泉）
Stroll and soak through seven public baths
👘♨️
Famous for its atmospheric townscape and “bath-hopping,” Kinosaki invites visitors to wander in yukata and enjoy seven unique public baths.
10. 🏖️Ibusuki Onsen
（指宿温泉）
Unique sand baths by the sea
⏳🛀
Located in southern Kyushu, Ibusuki offers the special experience of sunamushi—being buried in warm, natural sand by the ocean.