The best onsen (hot springs) in Japan

Aichi > Onsen Kakitsubata (天然温泉かきつばた): Relax in a Hidden Onsen Along Japan’s Highways

Looking for a unique onsen experience near Nagoya without the tourist crowds? Kakitsubata Onsen, located at Kariya Highway Oasis, offers natural hot springs, open-air baths, and saunas in a convenient stop along the E1A expressway. Whether you’re traveling from Nagoya, Tokyo, or Shizuoka, this hidden gem lets you soak in mineral-rich waters, enjoy Aichi’s famous miso katsu, and even visit the Iwagike Park amusement area nearby.

Kyoto NTRanking 8 Onsen

Kyoto > Fukuchiyama Onsen (福知山温泉): Kyoto’s Award-Winning Hidden Hot Spring

Located in Fukuchiyama (福知山), Fukuchiyama Onsen Yōrō no Yu (福知山温泉養老の湯) is a hidden gem in Kyoto Prefecture, offering one of the most relaxing and scenic hot spring experiences in the Kansai region. With its expansive open-air baths (rotenburo, 露天風呂), traditional Japanese gardens, and various therapeutic baths, this onsen is perfect for those looking to unwind in nature, away from the usual tourist crowds.

Gifu NTRanking 8 Onsen

Gifu > Megumi no Yu Hot Spring (恵みの湯): A medicinal herb hot spring near Nagoya

Located just minutes from the historic Inuyama-jō Castle (犬山城), Megumi no Yu Onsen (恵みの湯) offers the perfect respite after a day of exploring Inuyama’s cultural riches. This onsen combines mineral-enriched hot springs and medicinal herbs, drawing on local herb-growing traditions dating back to the Edo era.

Kagoshima NTRanking 9 Onsen

Kagoshima > Iodani Onsen Sengan Hotel (硫黄谷温泉霧島ホテル): An oasis of relaxation

Located in the heart of Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park (霧島錦江湾), Iodani Onsen Sengan Hotel (硫黄谷温泉霧島ホテル) stands out as a jewel among the many onsens in the Iodani region (硫黄谷). This destination stands out not only for its mineral-rich hot springs and healing properties, but also for its proximity to natural and cultural wonders such as the Takachiho-no-mine volcano (高千穂峰), which you can venture to on an exciting excursion.

Kyoto NTRanking 6 Onsen

Kyoto > Taketori Onsen Akari no Yu (竹取温泉灯りの湯), the best bamboo views

Taketori Onsen Akari no Yu (竹取温泉灯りの湯) is the first natural hot spring in the Kyoto region and is surrounded by a magnificent bamboo forest. Its large open-air baths not only offer panoramic views of Kyoto and Osaka, but the scenery changes depending on the time of day. In the morning, the light creates a cool glow on the bamboo; at dusk, the reddish hues of the sky envelop the surroundings; and at night, illuminations transform the forest into a fantastical setting.

NTRanking 8 Onsen Shiga

Shiga > Takarabune Onsen (宝船温泉): Relaxation on the Biwako Shore

Located on the tranquil shores of Lake Biwa (琵琶湖) in Shiga Prefecture, Takarabune Onsen (宝船温泉) is a unique place for those seeking an authentic and health-enhancing relaxation experience.

NTRanking 7 Onsen Yamanashi

Yamanashi > Kofu’s Kusatsu Onsen: High Temperature Relaxation

Kusatsu Onsen (草津温泉) in Kōfu (甲府) is a small but authentic onsen with high-temperature hot springs, reaching between 46 and 50 degrees. This hidden corner, away from the hustle and bustle, offers a unique and relaxing experience thanks to its healing properties and a peaceful atmosphere. With affordable prices and few visitors, it is the ideal place to enjoy a traditional Japanese bath while immersing yourself in the serenity of the surroundings. Perfect for those looking for a genuine experience away from the crowds.