In Japan, volcanoes aren’t just for show; they treat us to a natural hot tub extravaganza with over 3000 onsen hotspots!
We call hot springs “Onsen” in Japanese.
An Onsen is a place where steam dances in the air, the soothing scent of hot springs perfumes the streets, and local cuisine offers a delightful taste of onsen culture.
Actually, hot springs come in a wide variety with different mineral compositions, colors, and therapeutic effects. Some are known as ‘Beauty Baths,’ promising beautiful skin, while others are called the ‘Elixir of Life Baths’ for their health-enhancing properties.
I’ll guide you through a selection of the best onsen I’ve personally visited, starting from northern Japan and highlighting their unique qualities and must-see features. And stick around until the end of the article for some onsen related fun facts and quirks!
Furofushi Onsen (Aomori)
My first onsen in this list of best hot springs in Japan is Furofushi Onsen, Furofushi means immortality. This onsen has this name because of the belief that by soaking in this hot spring, you won’t age or get sick.
This onsen is unique for its rich iron content, giving the water a reddish-brown color. The iron scent was ever-present during my bath, and it was the most iron-rich soak I’ve ever experienced – quite a surprise! The water was so cloudy that I couldn’t even see my own body submerged, which is why I confidently shared the bath photo in this article.
The roads around this hot spring area were also tinted with the welling reddish-brown color of the hot spring water.
This hot spring is also known for its healing properties, with germ-killing effects that aid in healing wounds and leave the skin silky smooth. As a woman, I enjoyed long soaks to achieve beautiful skin.
Another remarkable feature is its proximity to the sea. During rough waves, you might think the ocean would surge in, but luckily, it doesn’t. There’s nothing blocking the view between the sea and the bath, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely soak while savoring the sunset, this is easily one of the best things to do in Japan in my opinion.
To preserve the unobstructed view of the landscape from the hot spring, there are only minimal barriers surrounding it. While sitting by the edge of the tub, taking in the scenery and cooling off, I spotted a few people fishing in the distance. It was a close call, as I almost ended up unintentionally exposing myself to them!
The World Heritage-listed Shirakami Mountains, featured on this page, are located close to this hot spring. Be sure to include them in a visit to this area.
Nyuto Onsen (Akita)
At this hot spring destination, there are four distinctive types of hot springs, but Tsurunoyu, boasting the oldest history, stands out with its signature milky, opaque waters. What makes it extraordinary is that these white waters gush up right at your feet in the open-air baths – a truly rare experience. This milky hot spring is rich in sulfur, believed to work wonders for the skin. As I soaked in its warmth, my skin felt wonderfully moisturized.
And here’s the kicker – they have a mixed-gender bath here that’s very popular. Yes, you heard it right, men and women can bathe together. While there’s also a women-only bath, taking a dip in the mixed-gender bath is an unforgettable, authentically Japanese experience.
Because the hot spring water is cloudy, there’s no need to be concerned about your body being visible underwater, and you can move around freely in the bath. Surprisingly, there were more women than I expected sharing the experience.
I did venture into the indoor women-only hot spring as well, but it’s a bit cozier and smaller. Honestly, I’d recommend the spacious mixed-gender bath for the refreshing feeling of bathing outdoors in the crisp air.
I absolutely adored the vibe in Tsurunoyu Onsen Village. Those classic thatched-roof wooden buildings lining the streets made me feel like I’d stepped into a time machine.
What’s really cool is that these buildings serve as accommodations. I couldn’t resist peeking inside one, and guess what? There was a cozy hearth right in the middle of the room, giving off an atmosphere you won’t find even in your typical Japanese inn. The hearth not only keeps the place warm but also doubles as a stove where you can grill some delicious fish or snacks.
Now, this region gets seriously chilly in the winter, but I’ve heard they build snow huts when the snow piles up. That sounds absolutely enchanting, so I’ve got my sights set on visiting during winter next time.
Ginzan Onsen (Yamagata)
Ginzan Onsen’s charm? It’s all about the photogenic streets. In fact, it’s been said that one of the onsen ryokan here served as inspiration for the globally renowned film ‘Spirited Away.’
There’s a river running through the center, and on both sides, you’ll find wooden inns that have stood for about a century. Remarkably, there are no unsightly utility poles or wires that typically clutter Japanese streets, creating a nostalgic, time-traveling atmosphere.
I visited this hot spring town at night, and the soft, warm lights gently illuminated the streets. Since it’s pedestrian-only, it exudes a serene vibe. Guests strolling in yukatas add to the picturesque scene.
Along the street, there are foot baths where you can dip your feet in the hot spring water. Japanese folks adore foot baths for their instant coziness. Amid this nostalgic backdrop, listening to the gentle river sounds during a foot bath was incredibly relaxing.
Many ryokans offer packages that include both lodging and a taste of local cuisine.
Ginzan Onsen is especially popular in winter, and securing a ryokan reservation can be quite challenging. If you’re planning a winter visit, I recommend booking early.
Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma)
Kusatsu Onsen is undoubtedly one of the most popular hot spring destinations in Japan. The hot springs that gush in Kusatsu are so rich in quality minerals that they say, ‘A soak in Kusatsu Onsen can cure any ailment except for love.’
At its heart lies Yubatake, an iconic location where instead of mixing hot spring water with cold, they ingeniously use seven wooden barrels to cool it before distributing it to nearby facilities. This keeps the hot spring’s benefits intact.
And don’t miss the traditional spectacle known as ‘Yumomi.’ It involves stirring the hot spring water to cool it a bit and tone down the strong sulfur scent. It’s quite the show, and tourists flock to witness it.
By the way, even my mom couldn’t resist joining in on the Yumomi fun at the Kusatsu Onsen; she had a blast!
Near Yubatake, you’ll stumble upon free foot baths and public bathhouses. I decided to dip into a free public bath known as ‘Shirahata no Yu.’ It’s a cozy spot, just big enough for about four people, but it offers a unique experience.
Here’s the twist – leave your shampoo and soap behind. Why, you ask? Well, Kusatsu Onsen boasts remarkably acidic and sanitizing waters.
So, a soak in this hot spring is all you need for a thorough cleanse.
Now, brace yourself for the heat – we’re talking a whopping 47 and 44 degrees Celsius. Normal hot springs hover around a comfortable 42 degrees Celsius, so this was scorching! It did feel a bit too intense initially, causing some discomfort, but once you acclimatize, it becomes wonderfully relaxing. Just be prepared for that lobster-red skin when you step out.
Even for a local like me, taking a plunge into such blazing hot springs is a rare treat. So, I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a shot!
Hakone Onsen (Kanagawa)
Hakone Onsen is my kind of place! You’ve got 17 hot spring havens all in one spot, making it one of Japan’s best hot spring getaways. What’s cool is each spring has its unique charm, so you can choose the perfect one for your mood. These hot springs are like magic for your body – they leave your skin feeling silky, wash away all the day’s grime, and give your metabolism a boost.
Trust me, Hakone’s been the go-to for folks looking for relaxation and healing for ages.
And if you plan ahead, you can even snag your very own private outdoor Japanese bath for some quality me-time.
Hakone is conveniently close to Tokyo, making it a great spot for a day trip.
It has a little bit of everything – from lively streets and cozy hot spring inns to a charming retro vibe that attracts tourists from all over the world. Hakone isn’t just about its natural beauty; it’s also a hub for traditional craftsmanship, like the intricate art of Yosegi-zaiku.
But what really caught my eye was Hakone Yosegi Zaiku as traditional craft. It’s a fascinating craft where they use the natural colors and grains of different wood types from Hakone to create stunning geometric patterns.
They turn these into adorable little boxes and all sorts of wooden goodies. And guess what? People from all over the world adore them.
There are quite a few shops in Hakone that specialize in Yosegi Zaiku, so I suggest popping into one. You won’t believe the unique designs they offer.
Snow Monkey Park (Jigookudani Yaen Koen) 🐒 (Nagano)
There’s a hot spring deep in the mountains where no one lives.
Unfortunately, we’re out of luck when it comes to taking a dip in this hot spring – it’s strictly reserved for monkeys. It’s the only one of its kind in the world, and you can reach it by walking about 2 kilometers through the mountains from Jobin Onsen.
In this region, covered in snow for about a third of the year, Japanese macaque monkeys have lived here for ages. It’s a spot to observe these monkeys up close.
When I visited, I had this amazing moment where monkeys were playfully darting around right by my feet. And there was this adorable scene of a mother monkey and her baby, sitting side by side, grooming each other with such care.
In winter, they soak in the hot spring to stay warm, and it’s incredibly cute to see them with snow on their heads, looking like they’re saying, ‘Ah, this is so nice and warm.’
Gero Onsen (Gifu)
In Gero Onsen, you’ll find a remarkable eight free foot baths scattered around this onsen town. Enjoying a toast with a cold beer while soaking your feet in these foot baths is an absolute delight.
Along the river, you’ll discover natural hot springs bubbling up. There aren’t any walls or enclosures, yet some daring folks choose to bathe right there.
When I visited, I witnessed the springs beginning to flow, and I couldn’t resist the opportunity. I took off my socks and dipped my feet in. The newly erupted hot spring water was scorching, almost making me worry about getting burned.
In Gero Onsen, you can enjoy a wallet-friendly hot spring-hopping experience. By purchasing a hot spring pass for around 1300 yen, you can access three different hot springs among the affiliated inns. Considering that a single entry to some places can cost around 1000 yen, it’s quite a bargain to enjoy three visits.
Furthermore, these passes, which look like keychains with Japanese characters, make for wonderful souvenirs with plenty of Japanese writing, serving as lasting mementos of your journey.
This local delight is none other than Hida beef nigiri sushi. When you sink your teeth into the seared A5-grade Hida beef, it quite literally melts in your mouth. You can try this sushi at Yushimaan.
Considering it’s on the pricier side, about 900 yen for a mere 2 pieces, I’d suggest taking your time to really chew and enjoy the flavours instead of gobbling it down quickly.
One of my foreign friends who joined me for this culinary adventure couldn’t stop praising this sushi. While I enjoy the affordable conveyor belt sushi too, this particular delicacy is truly in a league of its own.
If you drive for just under 2 hours from Gero Onsen, you can reach the highly popular tourist destination, Shirakawa-go. It’s a place where many traditional Japanese houses have been preserved, making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
For more information about Shirakawa-go, you can visit my authentic places in japan article!
Kinosaki Onsen (Hyogo)
In this charming hot spring town, one of the favorite things to do is the ‘Rotenburo Meguri’ or outdoor bath hopping. You’ll find communal baths scattered all around, and it’s a delightful experience to soak in one, then move to another.
There are seven of these communal gems here, and with a 1500 yen day pass, you can dip into any of them as many times as your heart desires.
Just a quick tip: don’t forget to pack your towel since they don’t provide them for you.
There are also some rather unique Japanese baths here, and the one that left the strongest impression on me is the ‘Ichinoyu’ cave bath.
While it’s not uncommon for baths to be made of rocks, what makes this one stand out is that it’s carved right into natural rock formations. So, here, the walls and ceiling are all exposed rock, making it quite a different and enjoyable bath experience. Plus, even though it’s in a cave, it’s partially open-air, giving it an airy and liberating feel.
During winter, Kinosaki Onsen becomes a hub for savoring Matsuba crab, a delicacy freshly harvested from the nearby seas. Crabs are a quintessential winter treat, and among them, Matsuba crab stands out as a true gem. With its thick legs filled with succulent, slightly sweet meat, it’s a culinary delight.
While I’ve enjoyed various crab dishes, Matsuba crab remains my absolute favorite. After a relaxing soak in the hot springs, there’s nothing quite like sipping on a cold beer and relishing this delicious crab. My family’s visits to Kinosaki Onsen are all about indulging in this mouthwatering treat.
The crab-infused soup is an absolute delight, brimming with the rich essence extracted from the crab itself. Now, here’s the thing about crab – it’s a bit of a challenge to eat. It demands time and effort, and you’ll find everyone completely focused, often in silence, cracking those crab shells and digging out the meat. But despite all that, there’s an undeniable allure to crab that keeps us coming back for more.
Arima Onsen (Hyogo)
Here, you’ll find two distinct springs: the ‘Kin no Yu’ (Gold Spring) and ‘Gin no Yu’ (Silver Spring).
The Gold Spring, lovingly called the ‘Beauty Hot Spring,’ has salt levels higher than seawater, offering incredible heat retention and skin-pampering effects. Your skin will feel soft, and they say it works wonders for skin conditions.
Now, the ‘Gin no Yu’(Silver Spring) is quite the marvel. It’s known to kickstart your metabolism, get your blood flowing, and supercharge your body’s natural healing powers. Here’s the kicker – you can drink its revitalizing water! It’s said to give your stomach a nudge and rev up your appetite, so be sure to dive into some scrumptious eats after experiencing this one-of-a-kind hot spring.
Arima is not just a onsen town; it’s a place where you come to “stay in cozy inns.” The inns here are famous for serving up fantastic meals, and you’ll often hear people say, “No matter where you eat in Arima, the food is always delicious.” Arima takes great pride in sourcing top-quality ingredients from various places to ensure a memorable dining experience.
The combination of excellent hot springs and mouthwatering cuisine is a long-standing tradition in Arima Onsen, and it’s considered exceptional even among Japan’s renowned hot spring destinations.
Dogo Onsen (Ehime)
Dogo Onsen is renowned as Japan’s oldest hot spring, with a history spanning over 3000 years.
Its trademark is this historic building, which is quite a surprise considering the extensive history, you can bathe here for just 700 yen for adults.
Unlike typical hot springs, Dogo Onsen is a rare gem that offers the experience of natural spring water without any temperature adjustments or dilution. This unique feature allows you to fully appreciate the therapeutic benefits of the spring. Due to its gentle effect on the skin, it’s affectionately known as the ‘Beauty Hot Spring.’ So why not immerse yourself in this rejuvenating water and achieve that silky-smooth skin you’ve always desired?
Unzen Onsen
While I haven’t had the chance to soak in this specific hot spring, I wholeheartedly recommend the Jigoku Onsen (Hell Hot Springs) in this area. The air here carries the pungent scent of sulfur, and at times, thick steam billows so intensely that it can obscure your surroundings completely.
They’ve set up well-maintained pathways, inviting you to truly immerse yourself in the raw power of these hot springs. It takes about an hour to complete the full circuit.
Strolling along the path, we got up close to witness the gas erupting with vigor and the hot springs bubbling away. As I gently brushed against the gas, it surprised me with its intense heat, truly allowing me to feel the raw energy of these hot springs.
And here’s a delightful bonus – you can savor onsen eggs steamed using the natural heat of the springs. Typically, they’re available for purchase in a hut along the pathway, but sadly, they had closed for the day during my visit. Instead, a friendly cat seemed to be holding down the fort as the unofficial shopkeeper.
Let me share a special experience you shouldn’t miss here – foot steaming.
Picture this: you place your feet on these wooden boards, and suddenly, you feel the warmth of the earth’s heat and steam rising beneath you. It’s a truly unique sensation, one I hadn’t encountered anywhere else in my hot spring adventures. This added a whole new layer of enjoyment to my time in this hot spring paradise.
Beppu Onsen (Oita)
Beppu is a place where a diverse range of hot springs gush forth, and it boasts the largest number of hot spring sources in the world. Everywhere you look, steam rises into the air, creating a distinctive Beppu landscape.
It’s no wonder Beppu ranks among the top three most popular hot spring destinations in Japan. Unlike many other hot spring areas that are tucked away in the mountains and require a car to access, Beppu’s exceptional accessibility is one of its charms.
With such a wide variety of enjoyable hot spring experiences to choose from, there’s no shortage of recommendations to explore here.
Mud hot spring
At Beppu Onsen Yuya Land, I had the incredible experience of soaking in their renowned mud bath. This is one of the most memorable hot spring in my life.
This place boasts one of Japan’s top mud bath spots, a rarity even in Japan. It’s a natural hot spring sourced from mineral-rich clay deep underground.
This remarkable mud has the power to cleanse pores like no regular face wash can. While in the bath, I coated myself generously with this unique mud, and after the soak.
Due to the sticky mud, it clung to our faces, transforming us into mud monsters (like above picture). Finally, my skin felt as smooth and silky as a boiled egg – it was truly astonishing.
The hot spring has higher buoyancy than normal, so they’ve installed handrails to help you move around inside the bath. And yes, there’s a mixed-gender bath, but don’t worry, the mud bath ensures complete privacy as the water is so cloudy you can’t see anything – rest assured!
Sand hot spring
I had an unforgettable experience at Takegawara Onsen in Beppu, Japan. Instead of the usual hot spring soak, I found myself buried in warm sand, and let me tell you, it was unlike anything I’ve ever tried before. This sand bath experience is a hidden treasure, only found in a few spots in Japan, including Beppu and the upcoming Ibusuki Onsen.
Picture this: you’re lying on the sand, buried down to your neck, radiated heat from the natural hot springs below. I gave it a go three times, and each time, I was awestruck by the intense warmth coming from that sand. Feeling the weight of the sand enveloping your entire body is quite the sensation.
Now, here’s the kicker – this sand bath made me sweat like I’d just run a marathon. I mean, I was practically dripping when I emerged. But it’s not just about the sweat; it’s believed to detoxify your body, leaving you feeling as fresh as a daisy.
Since it’s quite a popular spot and not the biggest facility, you’ll need to book a specific time slot. I went in the late afternoon and luckily snagged the last spot for the day. If you’re planning to visit, I’d suggest heading straight to the reservation desk as soon as you arrive in Beppu.
Strange hot spring
The ‘Beppu Hell Tour’ is a must-do in Beppu. There are seven places here known as ‘hells,’ and you’ll encounter a variety of hot springs unlike anything else. From hot springs as red as blood to ones as blue as you’ve never imagined, this place offers a unique experience you won’t easily find elsewhere.
Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) 🌊
This is a cobalt blue spring that will remind you of a tropical island. The temperature of the spring is a scorching 98 degrees Celsius, truly living up to its name as ‘hell’.
Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell) 🩸
This lives up to its name with its strikingly crimson, hot mud pool that perfectly matches the image of hell.
The reason behind the spring’s intense red hue isn’t actual blood, although it may seem that way – it’s due to abundant iron and magnesium oxide content.
This spot is perfect for Instagram-worthy photos, so don’t forget your camera. You can even enjoy unique treats here like ‘Blood Pond Pudding’ and ‘Hell Curry,’ inspired by the rich red color of the spring.
Tatsumaki Jigoku (Tornade Hell) 🌪️
I was captivated by the natural spectacle there. Every half hour, the geysers would erupt, reaching up to 30 meters high if the roof is not installed. It was a reminder of the incredible power of the Earth, and I couldn’t help but be awestruck.
Shiraike Jigoku (White Pond Hell)
I couldn’t help but be captivated by the enchanting milky-white hot spring there. It’s fascinating how this spring, initially clear and colorless, magically transforms into this creamy hue once it graces the pond, creating a surreal and almost otherworldly atmosphere.
Oniishibozu Jigoku 👨🦲
The sight of bubbling grey mud oozing from beneath the earth is quite fascinating. Its striking similarity to a monk’s bald pate adds a unique charm to this place.
Oniyama Jigoku 🐊
Something unusual awaits there – alligators basking in the warmth of the hot spring. Here, you’ll come face to face with both large, mature alligators and numerous lively juveniles, some of them impressively sized.
Watching them during feeding time is an awesome experience as these alligators eagerly compete for their meaty meals.
Kamado Jigoku
Although it may not boast the same distinctiveness as the six hot springs I mentioned earlier, this place blends together the unique charms of each, providing an all-encompassing and entertaining experience. It’s a great option for those with limited time since you can explore everything in one location, though it might not have the same grandeur due to its smaller size.
You’ll also find complimentary foot baths and spots to savor the hot spring water, among other delightful offerings.
Yufuin Onsen (Oita)
The charm of Yufuin Onsen lies in its streets that feel like a journey back in time. You’ll find traditional ryokans where you can embrace the unique Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi, and the town itself is adorned with purely Japanese-style buildings.
“Wabi-sabi” means the beauty we find in Imperfection.
It’s the perfect place for moments of meditation, gazing at Japanese gardens, and enjoying the serene ambiance. Perhaps that’s why it has become a popular hot spring destination even among international tourists.
Surrounded by majestic mountains and countryside landscapes, it’s a place where you can soak in the essence of Japan’s natural beauty. I was fortunate to visit on a sunny day, and the vivid blue sky contrasting with the lush greenery left a lasting impression.
One of the things that sets Yufuin apart is the mildness of its hot springs, making them perfect even for the elderly and the little ones.
Now, let me tell you about a must-see spot here – Kinrinko Lake.
Here, you’ll find a magical blend of springwater and hot spring water, keeping the water temperature comfortably warm throughout the year.
In the colder months, steam gracefully ascends from the lake’s surface, you can witness steam rising from the surface, creating a truly magical spectacle. the sight of torii gates rising from within the lake evokes a unique blend of wonder and beauty.
Kurokawa Onsen (Kumamoto)
Kurokawa Onsen is like a hidden gem, nestled quietly amidst nature.
As I stepped off the bus, I wandered along narrow paths, passing through fields and traditional houses until I laid my eyes on charming wooden ryokans. It felt more like visiting my grandparents’ countryside retreat than a typical tourist spot.
This quaint village has stayed true to its roots, and it’s become one of the most cherished hot spring getaways in my memory.
If you’re seeking a tranquil escape away from the city’s noise, Kurokawa Onsen is a place that I can’t recommend enough.
Ibusuki Onsen (Kagoshima)
In Kagoshima Prefecture, where Sakurajima’s grandeur looms, I stumbled upon the charming secret of Ibusuki Onsen. While it does require a bit of a trek from the city, roughly an hour’s drive, let me assure you, the journey is absolutely worthwhile.
Ibusuki Onsen offers an utterly unique hot spring encounter, reminiscent of the sand bath I mentioned earlier in Beppu. Here, you nestle yourself into the warm embrace of sand, lovingly heated by the onsen’s natural powers. The profuse sweating you experience in this sandy haven is threefold compared to a typical hot spring, offering a remarkable detoxifying experience.
I was smitten with this sandy ritual right from the start, so much so that I returned for an encore a few years down the road.
What makes Ibusuki’s sand bath even more enchanting is its outdoor setting, right on the sandy shore. As you’re enveloped in the comforting warmth of the sand, you’re serenaded by the gentle sea breeze, the harmonious cries of seagulls, and the soothing rhythm of the waves lapping at the shore.
It creates an undeniably tranquil ambiance that’s beyond words. Trust me; this experience is a must, especially in this serene backdrop.
While donning yukatas, we stretched out on the sand, and it was as if we’d been buried alive, rendering us temporarily immobile. The recommended soaking time was around 15 minutes, but those 15 minutes in the serene atmosphere slipped away in an instant.
Following that, we rinsed off in a shower, soaked in a bath, and meticulously removed every grain of clinging sand, marking the conclusion of our bathing ritual.
The post-bath sensation was nothing short of exhilarating, leaving us feeling as light as air, as though we could almost take flight.
Due to the facility’s spaciousness, we could enjoy our bath without a prior reservation, and what’s even more astounding is that despite the uniqueness of this experience, it only set us back around 1,000 yen.
Hirauchi Kaityu Onsen (Kagoshima)
This is no ordinary open-air bath. It’s tucked away on the remote island of Yakushima, and it’s got its quirks that makes it one the the best onsen in Japan.
First off, it’s close to the sea. When the tide creeps in, those waves come crashing right into the bath, and the hot spring water? Well, it’s got a tendency to vanish into the deep blue.
Let me tell you, I had a few wave encounters while I was soaking in there.
Now, here’s the second kicker – no fancy changing room. Nope, you’ll find yourself hiding in the rocky shadows nearby, sneaking around to change your clothes. I can still feel that nervous excitement of thinking someone might spot me while I tried to get decent. But hey, that’s all part of the adventure, right?
And here’s the real plot twist – it’s a mixed-gender bath. Yeah, you heard me. Most places separate the men from the women, but not here. The locals had their special bath attire, but yours truly? I had just one small towel, so I embraced the whole naked-and-not-afraid vibe.
Surprisingly, the island folks were super friendly, and that bath turned into a pretty awesome social gathering as we soaked and chatted away.
Hot Springs – The ultimate personal heaven for pure Japanese relaxation 😌
Japanese folks don’t just hop into the bath to scrub up; it’s a cherished spot to unwind, escape the daily grind, and take life slow.
Me? I relish a solid hour in the tub, belting out tunes, diving into a good book, or simply basking in the glow of candlelight. And when winter rolls around, slipping into the bath with an icy body is pure bliss – everyone ends up with faces like those happy monkeys in the picture.
For all you travelers out there, while you’re in Japan, don’t just settle for a quick shower. Take full advantage of your stay and let the hot springs work their magic. It’s a chance to melt away the day’s exhaustion and create unforgettable memories.
Onsen Tamago🥚: Born from the Blessings of Hot Springs
Let me introduce you to something truly special – onsen eggs. These little treats are a must-try when you’re at a hot spring spot, and for a good reason.
They’re like boiled eggs, but with a twist that’ll blow your mind. Picture this: a perfectly runny white and a just-right yolk that’s heavenly. It’s prepared similarly to regular boiled eggs, but the texture is a world of difference.
Onsen eggs are like soft-boiled eggs, but don’t worry about safety – Japan’s eggs are of top-notch quality, safe to enjoy raw. Drizzle a bit of soy sauce on them, and you’re in for a mouthwatering experience that’ll leave you wanting more.
Onsen eggs aren’t cooked using fire; instead, they’re crafted using the hot spring’s source water, harnessed by the power of nature.
Ashiyu🦶: Foot Heaven
Many hot spring areas have free foot baths, and I’d love for you to give them a try. But what exactly is a foot bath?
A foot bath is the act of immersing your feet in warm water. By doing this, it enhances blood circulation, improves nutrient supply, and can lead to reduced fatigue, relaxation, and stress relief. It’s one of the health practices among the Japanese. Foot baths, especially on chilly days, are highly recommended as they make your entire body feel warm and cozy.
During a foot bath, it’s common to engage in enjoyable conversations with fellow tourists, and you might even make new friends, creating lasting memories of your travels.
Conclusion
When it comes to hot springs, Japan offers a fascinating array of experiences. They’re not all the same; they vary in their therapeutic benefits and mineral compositions. Some are hidden deep in the mountains, while others hug the seaside.
But it doesn’t stop at soaking in hot water when traveling to Japan. You can indulge in mud baths, bury yourself in warm sands, or even watch monkeys enjoy their hot spring dip. Japan’s hot springs are a diverse playground of relaxation and wonder.
So, immerse yourself in these healing waters, let them wash away your travel fatigue, and emerge with skin as radiant as your cherished memories!
