12 Japanese Onsen Hot Springs You Can Visit With Ease

Japan's rich geothermal landscape offers numerous onsen (hot spring) experiences, each unique and rejuvenating. For travelers seeking to immerse themselves in this traditional Japanese culture without the intimidation of nudity, there are several onsen that allow visitors to wear swimsuits or other coverings.

What Are Onsen?

Onsen are natural hot springs that have been an integral part of Japanese culture for centuries. These baths are known for their mineral-rich waters, which are believed to have numerous health benefits, including skin rejuvenation and stress relief. Typically, onsen are gender-separated and require full nudity to maintain the purity of the water, but there are exceptions that cater to those who prefer to cover up.

12 Japanese Onsen Hot Springs You Can Visit With Ease

1. Kotan Onsen: A Serene Lakeside Experience

Located on the shores of Lake Kussharo in Hokkaido, Kotan Onsen offers a tranquil setting where visitors can soak in hot springs while wearing swimsuits. This onsen is known for its picturesque views and the opportunity to share the bath with swans, adding a unique touch to the experience.

2. Shiriyaki Onsen: Off the Beaten Path

In Gunma Prefecture, Shiriyaki Onsen is a wild hot spring that allows visitors to wear bathing suits or towels. This free public bath is part of a river and is known for its hot water bubbling up from the riverbed, giving it the name "burning buttocks." It's a short drive from Kusatsu Onsen, making it a great addition to your itinerary.

3. Sunayu: Healing Waters by the River

At Yubara Onsen in Okayama, Sunayu is a mixed-gender onsen that permits swimsuits. The hot spring water here is renowned for its skin-beautifying effects, and the site offers three baths with different temperatures. The nearby town is filled with traditional Japanese buildings, making it a charming place to explore.

4. Kusatsu Onsen: A Top-Level Hot Spring Experience

While Kusatsu Onsen is traditionally known for its nude bathing, some ryokans in the area offer private baths where visitors can wear swimsuits. Kusatsu is famous for its Yubatake hot water field and the therapeutic properties of its sulfuric waters. It's easily accessible from Tokyo via the Hokuriku Shinkansen and a bus ride.

5. Noboribetsu Onsen: Hokkaido's "Hell Valley"

Noboribetsu Onsen, located in Hokkaido, offers a unique experience with its mineral-rich waters and volcanic landscapes. While traditional nudity is the norm, some facilities may offer private baths or special arrangements for those who prefer to cover up. The area is known for its geothermal wonders and is a must-visit for any onsen enthusiast.

6. Hakone Onsen: A Retreat Near Tokyo

Hakone is a popular destination for onsen enthusiasts, with numerous hot springs just a short journey from Tokyo. Some ryokans and public bathhouses in Hakone offer private or mixed-gender baths where swimsuits are allowed. The area is surrounded by lush forests and offers breathtaking views of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji.

7. Kinosaki Onsen: Serenity on the Japan Sea

In the Kansai region, Kinosaki Onsen is a charming town with seven public baths and picturesque canals. While traditional nudity is common, some ryokans here offer private baths or special accommodations for those who prefer to wear swimsuits. The town's serene ambiance and diverse bath experiences make it a gem in the onsen world.

8. Gero Onsen: Idyllic Hot Springs in Gifu

Gero Onsen, nestled along the Hida River in Gifu Prefecture, offers three distinct public baths and charming ryokan inns. Some of these ryokans provide private baths where visitors can wear swimsuits, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a more private onsen experience.

9. Kurokawa Onsen: A Historic Retreat in Kyushu

Kurokawa Onsen, near Mount Aso in Kyushu, is known for its scenic charm and nearly 30 inviting onsen baths. While traditional nudity is the norm, some ryokans here offer private baths or special arrangements. Visitors can purchase a wooden tegata pass to access multiple baths, each with its unique appeal.

10. Yunessun: A Theme Park Onsen Experience

In Hakone, Yunessun is a unique onsen theme park that offers hot baths with sake, green tea, or wine. This resort allows visitors to wear swimsuits and provides a fun and relaxing experience with water slides, waterfalls, and jacuzzis.

11. Hakone Green Plaza Hotel: Secluded Onsen Bliss

For those seeking a more secluded experience, the Hakone Green Plaza Hotel offers daytime admission to its onsen facilities. Located in the valleys of Hakone near Lake Ashi, this hotel provides a peaceful retreat with private baths where swimsuits can be worn.

12. Nozawa Onsen: A Charming Village Experience

Nozawa Onsen, a small village in the Japanese Alps, offers a traditional onsen experience with some modern twists. Some ryokans here provide private baths or mixed-gender facilities where visitors can wear swimsuits, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more private experience.

How to Get to These Onsen

• Kusatsu Onsen: Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Karuizawa and then a bus to Kusatsu.
• Noboribetsu Onsen: Accessible via train and bus from major cities in Hokkaido.
• Hakone Onsen: Just 90 minutes from Tokyo via bullet train.
• Kinosaki Onsen: Best accessed by train from Kyoto, Osaka, or Kobe.
• Gero Onsen: Reachable by train from Nagoya.
• Kurokawa Onsen: Take a bus from Fukuoka Airport.
• Yunessun: Located in Hakone, accessible via bullet train from Tokyo.
• Hakone Green Plaza Hotel: In the valleys of Hakone, accessible via train and bus from Tokyo.
• Nozawa Onsen: Accessible via train and bus from major cities in the Japanese Alps.

Accommodation and Facilities

Many of these onsen towns offer a range of accommodations, from traditional ryokans to modern hotels. Some notable mentions include:

• Kusatsu Onsen Eidaya: Offers private baths and traditional Japanese futon mattresses.
• Hotel Ichii: Near Shiriyaki Onsen, providing convenient accommodation.
• Hakkei: Near Sunayu, offering comfortable stays with access to the onsen.
• Hakone Green Plaza Hotel: Provides private baths and a complimentary chef’s meal.

Each of these onsen destinations offers a unique experience, blending traditional Japanese culture with modern comforts to ensure a relaxing and rejuvenating visit.