There is something about slipping into a steaming outdoor bath while snow falls quietly around you that makes Japan feel like nowhere else on earth. Onsen towns are not just about hot water, they are about slowing down, wandering in a yukata between baths, eating beautifully simple meals, and letting the rhythm of the place take over. If you are visiting Japan for the first time and want an experience that goes beyond temples and neon, these onsen towns are the perfect place to start.
Hakone, the easy classic from Tokyo
If you only have a short amount of time, Hakone is the obvious choice. Just over 90 minutes from Tokyo, it is known for its lake cruises, mountain views, and a huge range of hot spring ryokan. One of the most accessible and well loved stays is Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu, where rooms come with private open air baths, making it ideal if you are nervous about public onsen etiquette on your first visit.
Kawaguchiko, Mount Fuji and hot springs
Few places in Japan feel as instantly iconic as Kawaguchiko. Sitting at the base of Mount Fuji, this small town pairs lake views with soothing mineral baths. A beautiful option right on the water is Ubuya Ryokan, which offers Fuji facing baths that are hard to forget.
Kusatsu, sulphur steam and old school charm
High in the mountains of Gunma, Kusatsu is famous for its naturally hot, highly acidic spring water that locals swear will cure just about everything. The town itself is built around the Yubatake hot water field, which pumps steaming mineral water through the centre of town. For your first stay, look at Kusatsu Onsen Hotel Village, which balances traditional ryokan charm with modern comforts.
Kinosaki Onsen, stroll in your yukata
Kinosaki is the onsen town that turns bathing into a social ritual. With seven public bathhouses spread through town, visitors walk between them in wooden sandals and cotton robes. It is charming, relaxed, and perfect for couples. Stay at Nishimuraya Honkan for classic tatami rooms and beautifully presented seasonal meals.
Takayama and nearby Okuhida, mountain serenity
Takayama is better known for its preserved old town, but just outside the city lies the Okuhida onsen region, a cluster of mountain villages with outdoor baths overlooking forests and rivers. One of the most atmospheric places to stay is Hodakaso Yamano Hotel, which feels like stepping into another era.
Noboribetsu, volcanic landscapes in Hokkaido
Noboribetsu is built beside Hell Valley, a dramatic volcanic crater that pumps mineral rich steam into the air. It is a favourite with Japanese travellers and offers a real sense of place. A good introduction is Dai-ichi Takimotokan, which has one of the largest onsen bathing complexes in the country.
Beppu, Japan’s onsen capital
Down in Kyushu, Beppu is known for having more hot spring sources than anywhere else in Japan. The town is famous for its colourful hells, boiling pools in shades of blue, red, and white. A refined place to stay is ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa, which blends resort luxury with serious bathing credentials.
Photo by Han Sen
Myoko Onsen, powder snow and peaceful nights
Myoko is one of those places that quietly wins your heart. Located in Niigata prefecture, it is a favourite with skiers in winter but just as lovely in the green months. It feels less touristy than Hakone and is a wonderful base if you want snow, onsens, and local food without the crowds. A beautiful choice is Akakura Hotel, which has been welcoming guests for generations.
Ginzan Onsen, storybook Japan
If you have ever seen photos of a lantern lit river lined with wooden inns, chances are it was Ginzan. This tiny town in Yamagata looks like something from a Miyazaki film, especially in winter. Rooms are limited, so booking early is essential, but Notoya Ryokan is worth the effort if you can secure a stay.
Onsen etiquette and first time tips
Visiting an onsen for the first time can feel intimidating, but once you know the basics it becomes one of the most rewarding parts of travelling Japan.
Before entering the bath area, remove your shoes and place them in the lockers provided. In the change rooms, undress completely, swimsuits are not worn in traditional onsens. The small towel you receive is for washing and modesty only, never for soaking.
At the washing stations, sit on the stool and cleanse thoroughly before entering the bath. Rinse off all soap and shampoo, and tie up long hair so it does not touch the water. This step is taken seriously by locals.
Ease yourself into the bath slowly, the water can be very hot, especially in winter regions like Myoko and Kusatsu. Never swim, splash, or talk loudly. Onsens are quiet spaces for rest and reflection. Keep your towel out of the water, either on the side of the bath or folded on your head.
If you have tattoos, check policies before you go. Many modern ryokan now allow tattoos or offer cover patches, but some traditional baths are still strict. When in doubt, book accommodation with private baths, which we cover in our Best Boutique Ryokan in Japan guide.
After soaking, gently rinse your body but try not to use soap immediately. Let the minerals sit on your skin for a little while, it is part of the experience.
Extra onsen travel tips
Visit early in the morning or later in the evening for a calmer atmosphere. Always drink water before and after bathing, dehydration is common in hot mineral baths. Pack a small cosmetic bag for the change rooms, hair dryers and basic skincare are often provided but not guaranteed.
Onsen towns are best enjoyed slowly. Instead of rushing between cities, choose one or two bases and stay at least two nights in each. Snow regions like Niigata can experience transport delays, so allow buffer days if possible.
There is something about slipping into a steaming outdoor bath while snow falls quietly around you that makes Japan feel like nowhere else on earth. Onsen towns are not just about hot water, they are about slowing down, wandering in a yukata between baths, eating beautifully simple meals, and letting the rhythm of the place take over. If you are visiting Japan for the first time and want an experience that goes beyond temples and neon, these onsen towns are the perfect place to start.
Hakone, the easy classic from Tokyo
If you only have a short amount of time, Hakone is the obvious choice. Just over 90 minutes from Tokyo, it is known for its lake cruises, mountain views, and a huge range of hot spring ryokan. One of the most accessible and well loved stays is Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu, where rooms come with private open air baths, making it ideal if you are nervous about public onsen etiquette on your first visit.
Kawaguchiko, Mount Fuji and hot springs
Few places in Japan feel as instantly iconic as Kawaguchiko. Sitting at the base of Mount Fuji, this small town pairs lake views with soothing mineral baths. A beautiful option right on the water is Ubuya Ryokan, which offers Fuji facing baths that are hard to forget.
Kusatsu, sulphur steam and old school charm
High in the mountains of Gunma, Kusatsu is famous for its naturally hot, highly acidic spring water that locals swear will cure just about everything. The town itself is built around the Yubatake hot water field, which pumps steaming mineral water through the centre of town. For your first stay, look at Kusatsu Onsen Hotel Village, which balances traditional ryokan charm with modern comforts.
Kinosaki Onsen, stroll in your yukata
Kinosaki is the onsen town that turns bathing into a social ritual. With seven public bathhouses spread through town, visitors walk between them in wooden sandals and cotton robes. It is charming, relaxed, and perfect for couples. Stay at Nishimuraya Honkan for classic tatami rooms and beautifully presented seasonal meals.
Takayama and nearby Okuhida, mountain serenity
Takayama is better known for its preserved old town, but just outside the city lies the Okuhida onsen region, a cluster of mountain villages with outdoor baths overlooking forests and rivers. One of the most atmospheric places to stay is Hodakaso Yamano Hotel, which feels like stepping into another era.
Noboribetsu, volcanic landscapes in Hokkaido
Noboribetsu is built beside Hell Valley, a dramatic volcanic crater that pumps mineral rich steam into the air. It is a favourite with Japanese travellers and offers a real sense of place. A good introduction is Dai-ichi Takimotokan, which has one of the largest onsen bathing complexes in the country.
Beppu, Japan’s onsen capital
Down in Kyushu, Beppu is known for having more hot spring sources than anywhere else in Japan. The town is famous for its colourful hells, boiling pools in shades of blue, red, and white. A refined place to stay is ANA InterContinental Beppu Resort & Spa, which blends resort luxury with serious bathing credentials.
Myoko Onsen, powder snow and peaceful nights
Myoko is one of those places that quietly wins your heart. Located in Niigata prefecture, it is a favourite with skiers in winter but just as lovely in the green months. It feels less touristy than Hakone and is a wonderful base if you want snow, onsens, and local food without the crowds. A beautiful choice is Akakura Hotel, which has been welcoming guests for generations.
Ginzan Onsen, storybook Japan
If you have ever seen photos of a lantern lit river lined with wooden inns, chances are it was Ginzan. This tiny town in Yamagata looks like something from a Miyazaki film, especially in winter. Rooms are limited, so booking early is essential, but Notoya Ryokan is worth the effort if you can secure a stay.
Onsen etiquette and first time tips
Visiting an onsen for the first time can feel intimidating, but once you know the basics it becomes one of the most rewarding parts of travelling Japan.
Before entering the bath area, remove your shoes and place them in the lockers provided. In the change rooms, undress completely, swimsuits are not worn in traditional onsens. The small towel you receive is for washing and modesty only, never for soaking.
At the washing stations, sit on the stool and cleanse thoroughly before entering the bath. Rinse off all soap and shampoo, and tie up long hair so it does not touch the water. This step is taken seriously by locals.
Ease yourself into the bath slowly, the water can be very hot, especially in winter regions like Myoko and Kusatsu. Never swim, splash, or talk loudly. Onsens are quiet spaces for rest and reflection. Keep your towel out of the water, either on the side of the bath or folded on your head.
If you have tattoos, check policies before you go. Many modern ryokan now allow tattoos or offer cover patches, but some traditional baths are still strict. When in doubt, book accommodation with private baths, which we cover in our Best Boutique Ryokan in Japan guide.
After soaking, gently rinse your body but try not to use soap immediately. Let the minerals sit on your skin for a little while, it is part of the experience.
Extra onsen travel tips
Visit early in the morning or later in the evening for a calmer atmosphere. Always drink water before and after bathing, dehydration is common in hot mineral baths. Pack a small cosmetic bag for the change rooms, hair dryers and basic skincare are often provided but not guaranteed.
If you are planning a winter trip, our Quiet Places to Visit in Japan in Winter guide will help you discover less crowded destinations.
Planning your onsen itinerary
Onsen towns are best enjoyed slowly. Instead of rushing between cities, choose one or two bases and stay at least two nights in each. Snow regions like Niigata can experience transport delays, so allow buffer days if possible.
For a deeper dive read our Best Places to Stay in Japan for First Time Visitors article which will help you link your onsen stays with food, culture, and memorable accommodation across Japan.
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