Traveling in Japan during winter is incomplete without the experience of soaking in a hot spring.
Hot springs — known in Japanese as onsen — are a cornerstone of Japan’s cultural heritage. These springs, heated by volcanic activity, are naturally infused with minerals that are believed to help purify the skin, aid detoxification, improve blood circulation, and offer a host of other wellness benefits. When the cold season arrives, these onsen resorts become sought-after destinations for day trips and weekend escapes. Below are eight of Japan’s most remarkable hot springs, some of which are surprisingly low cost — or even free.
Kurokawa Onsen, Kumamoto
Renowned as one of Japan’s most picturesque hot spring towns, Kurokawa in Kyushu offers nearly 30 onsen baths for visitors to try. The town operates a special system: you can purchase a traditional wooden tegata pass (about ¥1,300, ~ $9) to access three different baths.
Kurokawa boasts a history of at least 300 years. In the past, feudal lords would stop by this town when traveling between cities. Even today, its charm endures in the form of ryokan (traditional inns) and shops lining the river, softly lit by lanterns after dusk.
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Kinosaki Onsen, Hyogo
Experiencing traditional onsen culture can sometimes feel intimidating to non-Japanese speakers, especially since signage isn’t always translated and many baths prohibit tattoos. Kinosaki Onsen is a rare exception: all seven of its natural springs are tattoo-friendly, and the town provides English maps with stamps so visitors can mark their stops.
Kinosaki doesn’t just cater to foreign tourists — it strives to deliver an authentic experience for everyone. In addition to hot springs, you can join guided tea-picking tours or seated meditation sessions, with English guides available.
Beppu Onsen, Oita
Often called the hot spring capital of Japan, Beppu encompasses eight distinct onsen districts. It’s a bit out of the way, but well worth visiting for its variety: mud baths, steam baths, and even sand baths. On Shoningahama Beach, you can bury yourself in naturally heated volcanic sand while gazing out at gentle waves.
Don’t miss the “Hell Tour”, which takes you through Beppu’s eight hottest springs, known locally as jigoku (“hells”). Watch for the crocodiles soaking at Oniyama Jigoku — a quirky highlight!
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Ginzan Onsen, Yamagata
In Ginzan Onsen, wooden buildings line the banks of the Ginzan River. At night, flickering gas lamps cast a dreamy glow over the town, creating a setting straight out of a fairy tale. In winter, when snow blankets everything in white, the contrast between cold air on your face and the warm water is unforgettable.
Because Ginzan is such a popular destination in winter, book your stay about three months in advance. Nearby places in Yamagata, such as Zao Onsen, also offer snow sculpture displays during the season.
Kusatsu Onsen, Gunma
The waters in Kusatsu Onsen are so hot that they undergo a unique stirring method called yumomi rather than simply adding cold water — this helps preserve their mineral potency. The public bath Sai no Kawara Rotenburo, amid beautiful forest scenery, charges only ¥600 (~ $4) for entry.
A fun tip: you can also bring home powdered mineral salts Yu no Hana and recreate a mini onsen bath yourself to enjoy its healing effects.
Nozawa Onsen, Nagano
For winter lovers, Nozawa Onsen offers the ideal combo: onsen and skiing. After carving down the snow slopes, visitors can relax in any of the town’s 13 soto-yu (public open-air baths). Best of all — they are free and require no ticket. Though small, each bath has beautiful wooden architecture reminiscent of Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away.
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Hakone, Kanagawa
Hakone features a wide diversity of hot spring experiences. This mountainous town is home to family-friendly spa parks, luxury ryokan with private hinoki wood baths, and everything in between.
If you prefer something more playful, Yunessun Spa Resort is perfect: it offers quirky baths (wine, coffee), water slides, and cave pools. Unlike traditional onsen, this resort requires swimwear. For a quieter, more nature-immersed option, try Hakone Yuryo, which offers 19 private open-air onsen rooms surrounded by forest.
Atami, Shizuoka
Just a short trip from Tokyo, the coastal city of Atami actually offers more hot springs than sandy beaches. Legend says one of the great shoguns of the Tokugawa era loved the springs so much he carried some back to his castle in Edo (Tokyo). Because of its seaside location, Atami’s springs contain a higher salt content, which is said to help soothe irritated skin.
The city is close enough for a spontaneous day trip. Don’t forget to grab some manju onsen — a sweet bean bun specialty of the region — before heading home.
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Whether you’re seeking relaxation, cultural discovery, or simply a new experience, Japan’s hot springs offer something for everyone. From free public baths to luxury ryokan escapes, each destination provides a unique glimpse into the country’s traditions and natural beauty. Wherever your journey takes you, an onsen visit is sure to be a memorable part of your trip.
