5 Remote Onsen in Japan to Escape the Crowds: Hidden Hot Springs for a Quiet Soak
Japan’s onsen (hot springs) are a beloved escape, but famous spots like Beppu or Hakone often teem with tourists. For a quieter soak surrounded by nature or history, No Tourists Japan uncovers the country’s hidden gems. Our exclusive NTRanking system scores each spot—the higher the number, the fewer tourists and the more secluded the experience. Here are five remote onsen (温泉) from our collection, offering peace, authenticity, and a chance to unwind away from the masses in 2025.
NTRanking: 9/10
Why It’s Special: Tucked in the misty mountains of Nara, Dorokawa Onsen (泥川温泉) feels like a secret carved into Japan’s ancient heartland. Far from Nara’s temple crowds, its mineral-rich waters promise a tranquil retreat.
What to Expect: Warm baths in a small, rustic setting, surrounded by forested peaks—a perfect hideaway.
How to Get There: From Osaka’s Namba Station (難波駅), take the Kintetsu Line to Yamato-Kamiichi Station (大和上市駅), then a 40-minute bus ride to Dorokawa—about 2.5 hours total.
Why It’s Worth It: An NTRanking of 9/10 marks its isolation in Nara’s wilds, far from tourist trails.
NTRanking: 8.5/10
Why It’s Special: Near the mythical Tengu demon’s haunt in Shiga, Kutsuki Onsen (くつき温泉) offers a serene soak in a quiet village. Overlooked by Lake Biwa tourists, it’s a local treasure with a mystical vibe.
What to Expect: Hot, soothing waters in a simple bathhouse, with rural charm all around.
How to Get There: From Kyoto Station (京都駅), take the JR Kosei Line to Omi-Imazu Station (近江今津駅), then a 30-minute bus to Kutsuki—around 1.5-2 hours.
Why It’s Worth It: Its 8.5/10 NTRanking reflects a peaceful escape near a legendary folklore spot.
NTRanking: 9/10
Why It’s Special: Flowing from springs 15 million years old, Nukumori no Sato Onsen (ぬく森の郷) in Toyama offers a prehistoric soak amid rolling hills. It’s a quiet alternative to the region’s busier coastal spots.
What to Expect: Warm, mineral-packed baths with a cozy, natural ambiance—history in every drop.
How to Get There: From Toyama Station (富山駅), take the JR Takayama Line to Etchu-Yatsuo Station (越中八尾駅), then a 20-minute taxi—about 1 hour total.
Why It’s Worth It: A 9/10 NTRanking highlights its ancient allure and low visitor numbers.
NTRanking: 9/10
Why It’s Special: Hidden in Kirishima’s volcanic landscape, Iodani Onsen Sengan Hotel (硫黄谷温泉 霧島ホテル) blends sulfur-scented waters with lush greenery. It’s a relaxing retreat off Kagoshima’s beaten path.
What to Expect: Multiple baths with a distinct sulfur kick, set in a hotel that feels like an oasis.
How to Get There: From Kagoshima-Chuo Station (鹿児島中央駅), take a bus to Kirishima Onsen (about 1 hour), then a 15-minute taxi to the hotel—roughly 1.5 hours.
Why It’s Worth It: Its 9/10 NTRanking offers a balance of seclusion and comfort in a volcanic wonderland.
NTRanking: 6/10
Why It’s Special: Just outside Kyoto’s tourist chaos, Taketori Onsen Akari no Yu (竹取温泉 灯りの湯) surrounds you with bamboo groves and lantern-lit baths. It’s a serene nod to the Tale of the Bamboo Cutter.
What to Expect: Warm waters with stunning bamboo views, blending nature and tradition.
How to Get There: From Kyoto Station (京都駅), take the JR Sagano Line to Kameoka Station (亀岡駅), then a 15-minute taxi—about 45 minutes total.
Why It’s Worth It: A 6/10 NTRanking makes it a quiet escape near a major city, yet worlds apart.
Why These Onsen Stand Out
Our NTRanking measures more than distance—it’s about rarity and serenity. These five onsen dodge the tourist flood, offering authentic soaks in Japan’s lesser-known corners. From Nara’s lost mountains to Toyama’s ancient springs, they’re your path to peace.
Ready to Soak in Silence?
Skip the crowded onsen towns and dive into these hidden retreats. Discover more in our Onsen category and plan your quiet getaway today. Which will you visit first? Drop a comment or follow us on X (@notouristsjapan) for more offbeat Japan adventures!
