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Hot springs in Japan, known as onsen, are more than just natural thermal baths. They represent a centuries-old tradition deeply woven into Japanese culture. There are over 25,000 hot springs in Japan. These geothermally heated springs, rich in minerals and therapeutic properties, have been revered since ancient times for their healing powers. From snow-capped mountain retreats to coastal sanctuaries, Japan’s volcanic landscape has blessed the country with thousands of these natural hot springs. Each offers unique experiences that combine relaxation, wellness and cultural immersion.
Top 10 Hot Springs In Japan
Here are the best hot springs in Japan, where ancient traditions meet modern wellness, offering visitors relaxation and rejuvenation while embracing Japanese bathing culture:
1. Noboribetsu Onsen
Photo: 663highland / Wikimedia Commons
Found in Hokkaido’s most famous hot spring resort town, Noboribetsu Onsen draws visitors with its diverse range of thermal waters. The area’s unique volcanic activity produces various types of mineral-rich waters, each with distinct therapeutic properties. The dramatic Jigokudani (Hell Valley) serves as the source of these springs. This creates an otherworldly landscape of steam vents and bubbling pools that perfectly captures the raw power of nature.
Average Cost: ¥500 – ¥2,000 / ₹280 – ₹1,120 (public baths)
Location: Noboribetsu City, Iburi region, Hokkaido
Major Attractions: Hell Valley, 9 different types of spring water, foot baths
2. Kurokawa Onsen
Photo: Tzu-hsun, Hsu / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Hidden in the mountains of Kumamoto Prefecture, Kurokawa Onsen preserves the atmosphere of old Japan with its traditional architecture and natural settings. The village’s rotemburo (outdoor baths) offer serene views of the surrounding forest. Wooden buildings and stone pathways create an authentic atmosphere that transports visitors to a bygone era. It is one of the best hot springs in Japan for people who want to explore the rural, old Japanese life.
Average Cost: ¥600 – ¥3,000 / ₹336 – ₹1,680
Location: Minami-Oguni, Kumamoto Prefecture
Major Attractions: Nyuto Onsen, Traditional Ryokans, River-View Baths
3. Beppu Onsen
Photo: 663highland / Wikimedia Commons
Beppu Onsen is renowned for its high output of hot spring water, featuring eight distinct hot spring areas collectively known as ‘Beppu Hatto.’ Visitors can experience various types of baths, including sand baths, mud baths, and steam baths. The “Hells of Beppu” are a series of visually striking hot springs designated for viewing rather than bathing, showcasing vibrant colours and unique geothermal activity.
Average Cost: ¥1,000 / ₹700
Location: Beppu City, Oita Prefecture
Major Attractions: Sand baths, “Hells of Beppu,” and diverse bathing experiences
4. Arima Onsen
Photo: 663highland / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Arima Onsen is one of the oldest and most prestigious hot springs in Japan, dating back to the 8th century. It is famous for its ‘Gold’ (Kinsen) and ‘Silver’ (Ginsen) waters; the former is rich in iron and salt. This gives it a reddish-brown hue, while the latter contains radium and carbonate, offering a clear appearance. The town’s charming streets are lined with traditional inns, shops, and historic temples.
Average Cost: ¥1,500 / ₹1,050
Location: Kita-ku, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture
Major Attractions: Kinsen and Ginsen baths, traditional ryokan accommodations, and historic sites
5. Kusatsu Onsen
Kusatsu Onsen is famed for its high-quality sulphuric waters, believed to cure various ailments. The Yubatake, or ‘hot water field,’ is a central feature where hot spring water gushes out and is cooled before distribution to the baths in the town. The town offers public bathhouses, traditional inns, and the unique experience of yumomi, a traditional method of cooling hot spring water. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave your soul relaxed and your body revitalised.
Average Cost: ¥600 / ₹420
Location: Kusatsu Town, Gunma Prefecture
Major Attractions: Yubatake, yumomi performances, and public bathhouses
6. Shirahama Onsen
Photo: 663highland / Wikimedia Commons
Shirahama Onsen is one of Japan’s oldest hot spring resorts, along with Arima Onsen. Shirahama offers seaside hot spring baths with stunning ocean views. The area is known for its white sandy beaches, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and recreation. Visitors can enjoy open-air baths overlooking the Pacific Ocean and explore nearby attractions such as Adventure World and Engetsu Island.
Average Cost: ¥1,000 / ₹700
Location: Shirahama Town, Wakayama Prefecture
Major Attractions: Seaside open-air baths, Shirarahama Beach, and Adventure World
7. Atami Onsen
Photo: saname777 / Wikimedia Commons
This onsen has been a favoured retreat since the Edo period, known for its hot springs and coastal scenery. The town of Atami offers a blend of traditional ryokan and modern hotels, with hot spring baths providing views of Sagami Bay. Atami is also famous for its seasonal fireworks displays and the MOA Museum of Art, which houses a collection of Japanese and East Asian art.
Average Cost: ¥1,200 / ₹840
Location: Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture
Major Attractions: Ocean-view baths, fireworks festivals, and MOA Museum of Art
8. Ibusuki Onsen
Photo: 名古屋太郎 / Wikimedia Commons
Ibusuki Onsen is renowned for its unique sand baths, where visitors are buried in naturally heated sand along the beach. The geothermal heat provides a soothing experience believed to improve circulation and detoxify the body. After the sand bath, guests can rinse off and soak in traditional hot spring baths. It is one of the most unique experiences among the hot springs in Japan.
Average Cost: ¥1,000 / ₹700
Location: Ibusuki City, Kagoshima Prefecture
Major Attractions: Natural sand baths, coastal scenery, and traditional hot spring baths
9. Yufuin Onsen
Photo: Brocken Inaglory / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Yufuin Onsen is a serene hot spring retreat known for its tranquil atmosphere, artistic vibe, and stunning views of Mount Yufu. Unlike bustling onsens, Yufuin offers a blend of traditional ryokans, open-air baths, and boutique cafés, creating a perfect relaxation spot. The milky, mineral-rich waters are said to promote smooth skin and relieve fatigue. Visitors can also explore charming streets lined with galleries, craft shops, and quaint museums, enhancing the experience.
Average Cost: ¥600 – ¥1,800 / ₹340 – ₹1,000
Location: Yufuin, Oita Prefecture
Major Attractions: Mount Yufu views, Kinrin Lake, private ryokan baths
10. Gero Onsen
Photo: 663highland / Wikimedia Commons
Gero Onsen is famed for its mineral-rich, silky alkaline waters, often called the ‘beauty bath’ for leaving skin incredibly smooth. With centuries-old traditions, its open-air rotenburo, foot baths, and ryokan experiences create a deeply immersive retreat. The onsen’s water maintains a soothing temperature, ideal for relaxation and therapeutic benefits. Visitors can also enjoy yukata-clad strolls, sampling local delicacies, and joining cultural festivals for an authentic Japanese hot spring experience.
Average Cost: ¥400 – ¥1,500 / ₹230 – ₹850
Location: Gero, Gifu Prefecture
Major Attractions: Foot baths, open-air riverside baths, Gero Onsen Gassho Village
Hot springs in Japan offer an unparalleled experience of relaxation, rejuvenation, and cultural immersion. Whether you seek a peaceful retreat in nature, a luxurious ryokan experience, or a unique sand bath, Japan’s onsens provide a variety of options. Each onsen town has its own charm, from historical significance to breathtaking landscapes. Visiting these onsens is not just about soaking in warm waters but also about embracing the tranquillity and traditions that come with them. Book your trip with TripXL and explore Japan’s best hot springs today!
Cover Photo: Raita Futo / Wikimedia Commons
