A cornerstone of Japanese culture, bathing in hot springs (onsen) restores the body and mind and offers a relaxation experience like no other. There’s nothing better than escaping into nature and enjoying a discrete onsen experience surrounded by trees, mountains and even the ocean. The hot springs listed below are all perfect for warming up during the winter. Enjoy the snow around you and the crisp weather on your skin at these secluded hot springs.
Ginzan Onsen, Yamagata
Founded on the site of a former silver mine in rural Yamagata, Ginzan Onsen Hot Spring caters to discerning guests with a taste for old-world atmosphere. Traditional inns line the river to create picturesque scenes more evocative of a Taisho period (1912-26) novel than a modern resort. It's a long way from big city life and well worth the trip.
Its notable concession to modernity is the Fujiya ryokan hotel, a striking building designed by famed architect Kuma Kengo. With a blend of modern and traditional elements, including the incorporation of bare timber and white plaster, it stands out from its surroundings while also keeping one foot firmly in the past.
Kurokawa Onsen, Kumamoto
Kumamoto on Kyushu Island has an abundance of natural hot springs, but few are as famous as the town of Kurokawa Onsen. Around thirty onsen ryokan (Japanese inn) can be found in this mountain town and provide a quintessentially Japanese experience. Here you can indulge in hot baths, traditional multi-course kaiseki dining, and cozy tatami-floor rooms. With water flowing straight from underground springs, Kurokawa Onsen's therapeutic baths have been popular for more than 300 years, and their naturally mineral-rich waters are believed to have healing properties.
This idyllic town, nestled in a valley surrounded by misty hills, is a gorgeous place for a stroll even if you don't fancy taking a dip. Kurokawa Onsen's simple, traditional atmosphere has been well preserved and feels a world apart from the crowded, flashy streets of Japan's major cities.
Kusatsu Onsen, Gunma
The large hot water system called “Yubatake” is the symbol and heart of Kusatsu Onsen. The distinct aroma will guide you to the yubatake—literally translated as hot water field — in the center of town. Geothermal water rises to the surface straight from the source and is cooled as it runs along a series of connected wooden chutes while maintaining the natural mineral content.
Kusatsu has the highest water output of any onsen in Japan. With high temperatures (around 55 degrees Celsius) and high acidity, the water is said to cure many conditions and is especially good for your skin.
From the yubatake, you can easily stroll to Netsunoyu hall to watch the yumomi performance. Onsen workers cool the water by dipping and turning wooden planks, churning the water to the rhythm of a folk song. There are also several free public onsen baths around the center of town;
Nyuto Onsen, Akita
Head to the mountains northeast of Lake Tazawa in Akita Prefecture to enjoy seven ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) with private onsen surrounded by stunning forests and abundant nature. Collectively, these tranquil ryokan are named Nyuto Onsen and offer some of the most private and rustic hot spring experiences in the area. Many of them have been in operation for over three-hundred years. Some of the onsen here are also mixed gender, which makes it ideal for couples looking to relax together. Whenever you visit this stunning resort area, you’ll be able to enjoy the changing of the seasons around you while you bathe - plus it’s a perfect place to warm up in winter.
