Are you looking for a peaceful getaway that can help you unwind and relax? Look no further than Japan’s hot springs and onsen. Japan is known for its natural hot springs and thermal baths, which are believed to have therapeutic benefits for the mind and body. In this blog, we will explore some of the best destinations and experiences for a truly soothing sojourn in Japan.
What are Hot Springs and Onsen?
Hot springs, or “onsen” in Japanese, are natural hot water sources that are heated by geothermal activity beneath the Earth’s surface. Japan has over 3,000 hot springs, and they are found throughout the country. Onsen are also a type of hot spring, but they have specific requirements to be classified as such. The water must contain at least one of 19 designated minerals and have a temperature of at least 25°C.
Hot springs and onsen are a popular form of relaxation in Japan, and many people visit them to relieve stress, improve circulation, and soothe sore muscles. They are also believed to have a range of health benefits, including improving skin condition and boosting the immune system.
Best Hot Spring Destinations in Japan
- Hakone
Hakone is a popular hot spring destination located just outside of Tokyo. The town is known for its scenic beauty, which includes views of Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi, and the Hakone Shrine. There are numerous hot springs and onsen in the area, and many hotels and resorts offer private hot spring baths for guests.
- Beppu
Beppu is a city on the island of Kyushu that is famous for its hot springs. The city has over 2,000 hot springs, which are used for bathing, cooking, and even as a source of energy for power plants. Beppu is also known for its unique “Jigoku” or “Hell” hot springs, which have bright, colorful water due to their high mineral content.
- Kusatsu
Kusatsu is a hot spring town located in the Gunma Prefecture, north of Tokyo. The town is known for its high-quality hot springs, which have a high concentration of minerals and are said to have numerous health benefits. Kusatsu also has a traditional hot spring culture, with many public baths and onsen where visitors can soak in the natural hot water.
Best Onsen Experiences in Japan
- Snow Monkeys in Nagano
The Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park in Nagano is a unique onsen experience. Visitors can watch wild Japanese macaques soak in the hot springs, which were built specifically for them in the 1960s. The monkeys are known for their love of hot springs and can often be seen relaxing in the warm water, especially during the winter months.
- Ryokan Stay in Ginzan Onsen
Ginzan Onsen is a hot spring town located in the Yamagata Prefecture, north of Tokyo. The town has a traditional feel, with historic buildings and narrow streets. Visitors can stay in a traditional Japanese inn, or “ryokan,” which often have private onsen baths for guests. The ryokan experience includes a kaiseki dinner, which is a traditional multi-course meal featuring seasonal and local ingredients.
- Rotenburo in Noboribetsu
Noboribetsu is a hot spring town located on the northern island of Hokkaido. The town has numerous hot springs and onsen
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