Onsen in Japan: Everything You Need to Know & Where to Find One
There are many reasons to fall in love with Japan and without a doubt, indulging in a natural hot spring is one of them! Known as ‘onsen’, the islands of Japan are blessed with numerous naturally occurring hot springs – a positive consequence of being one of the world’s most volcanic countries! On this page you will find the following information:
— Best Onsen Towns in Nagano & Central Japan
— Book an Onsen Guesthouse in Nagano
WHAT IS AN ‘ONSEN’?
In Japanese, the world ‘onsen’ refers to natural hot springs that occur naturally throughout the country. To qualify as an onsen, it must be a naturally occurring source of hot water, mineral water or water vapour, with a subterranean source, a minimum temperature of 25C and at least one of nineteen mineral elements. As noted above, there are thousands of onsen dotted across Japan, identified by the onsen symbol – ♨ – or the character for ‘hot water’, pronounced ‘yu’ – 湯. Onsen play a fundamental role in Japanese society, with many Japanese attending an onsen every week if not every day.
Japan’s native religion of Shintoism – which has a strong focus on nature worship – has long placed importance on purification using water, as a central act of faith; something reinforced with the introduction of Buddhism which also promotes the virtue of bathing as form of both physical and spiritual cleansing. As such, onsen have long been sought-out for their curative and healing properties. When a source was discovered, a bath would be constructed to make use of the endless supply of hot water. Around these, guesthouses known as ‘ryokan’ developed as holistic retreats and over time, the areas with a large number of sources grew into onsen towns.
Still popular for their medicinal properties, onsen have more recently been sought-out for pure relaxation – hugely popular for both Japanese and international visitors. Though they were typically mixed gender in the past, since the mid-19th century onward most onsen have been segregated for men and women, a place to relax and unwind by yourself or with colleagues, friends, and family.
BOOK AN ONSEN TOUR
The best way to learn all about ‘onsen’ is through a guided tour! Enjoy some of our finely crafted itineraries that pair these onsen towns with other not-to-be-missed attractions that round out the day and make for a truly notable day trip that allows you to soak in the waters and take in local sights.
Please Note: Although our guide will not accompany you into the onsen themselves, as to allow for your privacy, they will give you all the information necessary for you to feel comfortable and confident as you explore the destinations listed below.
1-Day Tour to Kusatsu Onsen and Mt. Asama / April – November
1 Day Tour
| 1-Day Tour from Nagano and Karuizawa: Unwind in Kusatsu Onsen | |
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| Period | April – November |
| Time | 09:30 – 17:30 |
| Meeting Place | Nagano Station Karuizawa Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥24,800 |
| Child Rate | ¥15,500 |
With two options for pick up within Nagano Prefecture, this tour will take you a little ways out of the borders of Nagano and into Gunma Prefecture, home of Kusatsu Onsen. Easily described as one of the best onsen towns in all of Japan, Kusatsu is a must visit for anyone who wants to try bathing in Japan’s famed hot spring waters, or just soak in the atmosphere. Defined by volcanoes and their thermal power, you will also have a chance to visit two of Japan’s best volcanoes – Mt. Asama and Mt. Shirane. With a chance for a guided walk at each, you will understand more about where the onsen get their heat and healing minerals from.
Pick Up Locations: Nagano Station and Karuizawa Station
UNVEILING THE CHARM OF GERO ONSEN / all year round
1 Day Tour
| 1-Day Tour from Takayama: Unveiling the Charm of Gero Onsen | |
| Period | All Year Round |
| Time | 09:30 – 17:30 |
| Meeting Place | Takayama Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥19,800 |
| Child Rate | ¥13,000 |
Embark on a restorative journey to Gero Onsen with our 1-Day Tour from Takayama, where the famed hot springs promise relaxation and rejuvenation. Stroll through the enchanting Gero Onsen Gassho Village, capturing the essence of historic Japan, and deepen your appreciation for onsen culture at the insightful Gero Onsen Museum. The tour’s pinnacle is a therapeutic soak in Gero’s celebrated hot springs, renowned for their healing properties and serene ambiance. This immersive experience combines the tranquility of nature with cultural discovery, offering a blissful retreat into wellness. Surrender to the calming waters and picturesque settings of one of Japan’s most esteemed onsen destinations. Ready to embrace the soothing allure of Gero Onsen? Book your journey now and find tranquility in the thermal waters that have comforted many for centuries.
Kobe’s Harmony: Mountains, Sea, and the Serenity of Arima Onsen / All Year Round
1 Day Tour
| Kobe’s Harmony: Mountains, Sea, and the Serenity of Arima Onsen | |
| Period | All year round |
| Time | 09:15-16:45 |
| Meeting Place | JR Sannomiya Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥19,800 |
| Child Rate | ¥15,500 |
Experience the serene beauty of Arima Onsen with our relaxing day tour. Begin your journey with a visit to Maiko Bridge, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and the picturesque coastline. Continue to Arima Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest and most famous hot spring towns, where you can unwind in the soothing thermal waters and explore the charming streets lined with traditional shops and eateries. This tour offers a perfect blend of scenic views and ultimate relaxation, providing a rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
BEST ONSEN TOWNS IN NAGANO & CENTRAL JAPAN
Our home region of Nagano and Central Japan is home to some of the country’s most historic and best onsen towns. Our ’20 Best Onsen Towns in Nagano & Central Japan’ page tells you where to find them and why you should visit – so hop to it and enjoy the best that the region has to offer.
BOOK AN ONSEN GUESTHOUSE IN NAGANO
Based in Nagano and operating all year round, we are the region’s No.1-rated tour and charter operator. As a registered travel agent, we can arrange accommodation at the best onsen guesthouses in Nagano and Central Japan while also offering a full suite of services including tours, transport, ski packages and more! Our ‘Book an Onsen Guesthouse in Nagano’ page is a great place to start when looking for recommendations of where to stay once you’re here. We hope to see you soon in Nagano!
