Onsen, or hot springs, are an iconic part of Japanese culture, offering a host of relaxation and therapeutic benefits. Particularly in winter, the experience of soaking in naturally heated waters surrounded by scenic views is a popular pastime and the perfect way to enjoy a weekend (or longer!) getaway.
Recent survey results from accommodation booking site Jalan.net ranked Japan's top onsen destinations based on visitor feedback, focusing on factors like their unique atmospheres, healing properties, and historical significance. These are the top 10 based on their findings.
First place: Kusatsu Onsen, Gunma Prefecture
Kusatsu Onsen is renowned as one of Japan’s premier hot spring destinations, boasting the highest water volume of any free-flowing onsen in the country. Additionally, the waters here are known for their strong antibacterial properties and high acidity (pH 2.1), making it one of the most therapeutic onsens for a range of different ailments. Kusatsu is nestled in the mountains, which also makes for some beautiful year-round scenery to enjoy.
Second place: Hakone Onsen, Kanagawa Prefecture
Hakone is located in close proximity to Tokyo, and as a result it's a favorite getaway for both locals and international tourists looking for an urban escape. Situated at around 700 meters above sea level, Hakone offers stunning views of surrounding mountains and a myriad of things to do nearby, including an excellent museum culture. As for the onsen here, Hakone’s unique geological features provide hot springs with varying properties, from milky white baths in the highlands to alkaline waters at mountain bases.
Third place: Dogo Onsen, Ehime Prefecture
As one of Japan's oldest onsen resorts, Dogo Onsen has a rich history spanning over 3000 years. The Main Building, constructed in 1894, was even designated as a National Important Cultural Property in the 1990s. In addition to soaking in the famous baths, visitors can stroll through Dogo’s shopping street in yukatas and visit nearby attractions like Dogo Park and the Shiki Memorial Museum.
Fourth place: Noboribetsu Onsen, Hokkaido
Located in Hokkaido, Noboribetsu Onsen is famous for its variety of hot spring waters. The area features sulfur springs, hydrogen sulfide springs, and iron springs, each offering their own therapeutic benefits. Known for having a unique smell, the sulfur springs are particularly effective for skin care, while the iron springs are said to help relieve fatigue.
Fifth place: Beppu Onsen, Oita Prefecture
Beppu, one of Japan's leading hot spring regions, offers a variety of bathing experiences—visitors can enjoy everything from outdoor baths with stunning views to mud baths and steam baths. The city is also famous for its "Hells of Beppu" (Jigoku), a series of scenic, vibrant hot spring pools that are not for bathing but are a popular tourist attraction.
Sixth place: Arima Onsen, Hyogo Prefecture
Arima Onsen, located near the city of Kobe, is one of Japan’s Three Ancient Springs and holds a special place in Japanese history. Known for its two distinct types of water—golden, iron-rich springs ("Kinsen") and colorless radium springs ("Ginsen")—Arima has long been a favorite destination of historical figures, including the famed samurai Toyotomi Hideyoshi. With easy access from Osaka, it is a popular weekend getaway for both tourists and locals alike.
Seventh place: Kurokawa Onsen, Kumamoto Prefecture
Nestled along the Tanohara River in Kumamoto Prefecture, Kurokawa Onsen maintains a traditional, therapeutic atmosphere. The spring water here is rich in salt and hydrogen nitrate, and is known for its ability to soothe ailments like neuralgia and rheumatism. The town also hosts an annual illumination event in the colder months, adding to the picturesque charm of the area.
Eighth place: Atami Onsen, Shizuoka Prefecture
Atami has a long history as a popular destination for relaxation and wellness, attracting visitors since the 8th century. The town features numerous ryokan, public baths, and modern onsen hotels, making it a convenient and accessible hot springs getaway. Situated along the coast, it offers a mix of both indoor and outdoor baths with views of the Pacific Ocean, and the sulfuric waters are believed to have therapeutic properties—particularly for muscle and joint pain.
Ninth place: Gero Onsen, Gifu Prefecture
Gero Onsen, one of Japan’s Three Famous Hot Springs, is known for its alkaline spring water that boasts skin-softening properties, drawing visitors year-round. Gero itself has a rich history dating back to the Edo period and is home to Gassho-style houses, which are a great alternative to the much busier and tourist-trodden Shirakawago.
Tenth place: Kinosaki Onsen, Hyogo Prefecture
Kinosaki Onsen is famous for its seven different public baths, each offering a unique bathing experience. Located along a picturesque river with stone drum bridges and willow trees, Kinosaki has been a beloved onsen destination for over 1300 years. Visitors can enjoy the "onsen-hopping" experience by touring different baths while wearing yukatas, so it's perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in both the natural and cultural beauty of Japan.
