Japan’s springs, known as ‘onsens’ in Japanese are located in some of the most tranquil and beautiful settings in the world. There are more than 3000 of them in the country which is more than anywhere else on earth. Soaking in a tub of bubbling hot water is heavily steeped in Japanese culture and is considered to be extremely beneficial at dismantling stress and strengthening the immune system. In fact, hot springs are proven to boost circulation, detoxify organs and accelerate healing. So why not reap all of these health benefits while enjoying Japan’s beautiful landscape and wildlife. You will come back rejuvenated, refreshed and ready for action! And just to make sure you’re not loaded with any unnecessary stress before-hand, Hundredrooms will make finding your Japanese retreat easy as pie. We’ll compare thousands of accommodation rentals for you in an instant, giving you more time to get ready for your Japanese adventure!
Takaragawa Onsen (Gumma, Central Honshu)
Many Japanese people claim this spring to be the best in the country and we can certainly see why. ‘Takaragawa‘ means ‘treasure river’, and its several slate-floored pools are positioned side-by-side a beautiful riverbank. Most of the pools are mixed bathing, with one ladies-only bath. The water here is worshipped for its incredible healing properties and is said to cure fatigue, nervous disorders and digestive troubles.
Kinosaki (Kinosaki, Kansai)
Kinosaki, on the sea of Japanese coast in northern Kansai is a beautiful, quintessential town. Home to dozen of springs and baths, this is the place to really sample what the Japanese waters have to offer. You can relax in your accommodation, dipping in the pools when it suits you and after you can head into town in your cotton robe (yukata) and wooden sandals (geta) and hit the public baths. The town is really lively at night so be sure to check out the local restaurants and try their winter speciality, giant crab.
Lamp no Yado (Noto-hanto, Central Honshu)
To get to this place you’ll need to go down a few county roads and take a few narrow paths before you find the ultimate retreat. For centuries, this property has been a refuge for Japanese people seeing to cure what ails them. It’s a little more expensive to stay here, but it’s a worthy splurge for the sea views and complete peace and quiet.
Takegawara Onsen (Beppu, Kyushu)
This traditional Meiji Era onsen first opened in 1859, and there are separate (and very hot) baths for men and women. Takegawara also offers heated sand baths in which, wearing a cotton yukata, you are buried up to your neck with hot sand for 10 to 15 minutes! You are then asked to rinse and soak in an adjacent bath. Sounds interesting!
Takama-ga-hara Onsen (Northern Japan Alps, Central Honshu)
High up in the Japanese Alps you can soak in this wonderful open air bath (rotenburo) and taste that fresh mountainous air. The views are stunning but it does come at a price. In order to get here you will have to hike for at least one full day. It’s located in a high sanctuary which is completely inaccessible by car or other mode of transport. Trust us though, the views and water will be so worth it!
