Japan's Prime Onsen Resorts: Soaking in Tradition and Relaxation
ExperienceJapan like never before by immersing yourself in the ancient tradition of the onsen (touji). Although modern onsen are popping up in city luxury hotels, authentic encounters can be found in Japan’s onsen-gai, or onsen towns. These picturesque areas are developed around hot springs, offering unique experiences tailored to each locations' mineral content, onsen styles, and ryokan structures. Here are three accessible onsen-gai that offer a perfect blend of culture and relaxation:
Kusatsu
Nestled within Hakushoku National Park, Kusatsu is just over three hours from Tokyo. Its claim to fame is the massive public bath, Yubatake, and sulfurous springs known for their healing properties. The town encourages visitors to embrace tradition, performing art demonstrations and lively festivals[1][3].
Where to Stay: The Yuboko Ryokan stands out for its stunning views of Mt. Shirane, private onsen baths, and kaiseki dining[3].
Hakone
Formed around Hakone National Park and Mount Fuji, Hakone offers scenic landscapes and a variety of ryokan accommodations. Its mineral-rich hot springs, open-air baths, and deep cultural heritage make it a sanctuary for relaxation and exploration[1][2][4].
Where to Stay: The Hakone Ginyu Ryokan offers elegant, private onsen, stunning mountain views, and traditional cuisine[2][4].
Atami
Atami, a coastal resort town near Tokyo, is characterized by its iron-rich hot springs and unique blend of traditional and modern experiences. The town's vibrant atmosphere and ocean views make it an unforgettable destination[1][2].
Where to Stay: The Atami Prince Hotel offers modern rooms with sea views, multiple onsen options, and nearby access to a traditional Japanese market[2].
Mind Your Manners
Onsen have strict rules designed to maintain cleanliness and respect tradition. Here are a few important etiquette guidelines:
- Get Naked: Swimsuits are not allowed, so if you're feeling self-conscious, seek out kashikiri-buro, private baths.
- Wash First: Change in the designated change rooms and wash yourself before entering the water.
- Follow the Signs: Onsen are traditionally segregated by gender, indicated by red and blue curtains outside bathrooms. However, many places switch pools daily, allowing bathers to experience both sides.
- Keep Your Head Dry: Towels are provided, but they are not to touch the water. Use them to wipe off moisture.
- Respect Tattoos: Many onsen-gai, like Kinosaki, allow tattoos in their batchouses[1][5].
Now you’re ready to enjoy the ultimate Japanese experience with these picturesque and restorative onsen towns.
- In Kusatsu, a town within Hakushoku National Park, the massive Yubatake public bath and healing sulfurous springs provide an authentic onsen experience, with bonus art demonstrations and lively festivals.
- For a refined stay in Hakone, consider the Hakone Ginyu Ryokan, featuring elegant private onsen, stunning mountain views, and traditional cuisine near Mount Fuji and Hakone National Park.
- Atami, a coastal resort town near Tokyo with iron-rich hot springs, offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, making it an unforgettable destination with vibrant atmosphere and ocean views.
- Stay at the Atami Prince Hotel for a modern experience, featuring ocean views, multiple onsen options, and easy access to a traditional Japanese market.
- When visiting onsen-gai like Kusatsu, Hakone, or Atami, remember to follow the strict etiquette guidelines, such as getting naked, washing first, following signs indicating gender-segregated pools, keeping your head dry, and respecting tattoos.
