Sometimes, the most unforgettable travel moments are the quiet ones—like soaking in an open-air hot spring, gazing at the stars, or unwinding at a centuries-old inn surrounded by mountains. Japan’s onsen culture is more than just relaxation; it’s a ritual, a healing experience, and a deep connection to nature. Here are five destinations where hot springs and peaceful stays bring a whole new meaning to “rest and recharge.”

Hakone (Kanagawa) – Tokyo’s Favorite Hot Spring Escape

Recommended Experiences: Open-air onsen with mountain views, ryokan stay, Hakone Ropeway

Highlights:
• Easy access from Tokyo – perfect for weekend trips
• Gorgeous views of Mt. Fuji on clear days
• Museums, lake cruises, and modern + traditional fusion

Best Season to Visit: Autumn or Spring

Why You’ll Love It:
Hakone lets you unwind in hot springs while enjoying art, nature, and a view of Mt. Fuji. It’s the full-onsen package.

Kinosaki Onsen (Hyogo) – The Town of Seven Baths

Recommended Experiences: Onsen-hopping with yukata, canal stroll, local crab cuisine

Highlights:
• Charming town built entirely around public onsen
• Stroll in yukata from bath to bath (7 in total!)
• Winter crab dishes are a seasonal highlight

Best Season to Visit: Winter

Why You’ll Love It:
Where else can you spend the day soaking in seven unique baths while wearing a yukata and eating snow crab? Kinosaki is onsen heaven.

Beppu (Oita) – The Hot Spring Capital of Japan

Recommended Experiences: Sand baths, mud baths, “Hells of Beppu” tour, steam-cooked meals

Highlights:
• Japan’s largest variety of onsen styles
• Fascinating geothermal landscapes
• Fun, family-friendly and full of unique onsen types

Best Season to Visit: Winter or Spring

Why You’ll Love It:
Beppu is where onsen meets adventure—from bubbling mud to steamy hells, it’s a geothermal playground like no other.

Nyuto Onsen (Akita) – Hidden Retreat in the Mountains

Recommended Experiences: Outdoor baths in the snow, rustic ryokan stay, nature walks

Highlights:
• Secluded hot springs in the forest
• Milky-white sulfur baths with healing properties
• Historic inns dating back centuries

Best Season to Visit: Winter

Why You’ll Love It:
Deep in the snowy woods, Nyuto Onsen offers peaceful baths with zero crowds. It’s the ultimate hidden gem for quiet relaxation.

Arima Onsen (Hyogo) – One of Japan’s Oldest and Most Prestigious Hot Springs

Recommended Experiences: Gold and silver hot springs, luxury ryokan, exploring Mount Rokko

Highlights:
• Rich history dating back over a thousand years
• Two distinct types of spring water (kinsen and ginsen)
• Close to Kobe and Osaka for easy access

Best Season to Visit: Autumn to Spring

Why You’ll Love It:
Arima blends ancient healing waters with a touch of luxury. Whether you soak in the iron-rich “gold” springs or the sparkling “silver” waters, you’ll feel deeply refreshed in this timeless hot spring town.

In Japan, onsen is more than just bathing—it’s a ritual of rest, a gateway to nature, and a path to inner calm.
From snowy mountain retreats to seaside steam baths, these five destinations each offer their own version of healing and harmony.
So slip on your yukata, sink into the steam, and let Japan’s hot springs renew your body and soul—one soak at a time.