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Best Hot Springs in Japan
Japan is known for its natural hot springs, or “onsen”, which have long been a source of relaxation and rejuvenation for centuries. People from all over the world flock to Japan to experience the healing power of its many hot springs. With so many to choose from, it can be hard to decide which ones are the best. Here is a list of the 10 best hot springs in Japan, so you can make the most of your time in the Land of the Rising Sun.
1. Dogo Onsen
Dogo Onsen in Ehime Prefecture is one of the oldest hot springs in Japan. It has been in use since the 8th century and is still a popular destination today. It is known for its three-story wooden bathhouse, which is said to have been the inspiration for the bathhouse in the classic Studio Ghibli movie, “Spirited Away”. The baths are divided by gender, but there is a separate area where mixed-gender bathing is allowed.
2. Kinosaki Onsen
Kinosaki Onsen is located in Hyogo Prefecture on the Sea of Japan. It is one of the most famous hot springs in Japan and is known for its seven outdoor baths. Visitors can take a stroll through the town in traditional Japanese yukata robes and visit the many baths. There are also plenty of restaurants, shops and cafes to explore.
3. Noboribetsu Onsen
Noboribetsu Onsen is located in Hokkaido and is known for its sulfuric hot springs. The area is also home to a number of other attractions, including a Hell Valley with bubbling hot springs, a bear park and a Jigokudani, or Hell Valley, where you can watch wild bears bathe in the hot springs.
4. Arima Onsen
Arima Onsen is located in Hyogo Prefecture and is one of the oldest hot springs in Japan. It is known for its golden-brown waters, which are said to have healing properties. The area also has a number of traditional Japanese inns and restaurants, so visitors can enjoy a relaxing stay while soaking in the hot springs.
5. Shirahama Onsen
Shirahama Onsen is located in Wakayama Prefecture and is known for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. The area is home to some of the best hot springs in the country, and visitors can take a dip in the waters or enjoy a luxurious stay at one of the many traditional Japanese inns.
6. Kinugawa Onsen
Kinugawa Onsen is located in Tochigi Prefecture and is known for its relaxing atmosphere. The area is surrounded by mountains and is home to a number of traditional Japanese inns. Visitors can enjoy a soak in the hot springs and explore the area’s many restaurants, shops and temples.
7. Hakone Onsen
Hakone Onsen is located in Kanagawa Prefecture and is one of the most popular hot springs in Japan. It is known for its views of nearby Mount Fuji and its many traditional inns. Visitors can take a dip in the hot springs or explore the area’s many shops, restaurants and attractions.
8. Beppu Onsen
Beppu Onsen is located in Oita Prefecture and is one of the most famous hot springs in Japan. The area is home to a number of different types of hot springs, from mud baths to sand baths. It is also known for its traditional Japanese inns and restaurants, which offer a variety of local dishes.
9. Kusatsu Onsen
Kusatsu Onsen is located in Gunma Prefecture and is one of the most popular hot springs in Japan. The area is known for its abundance of hot springs, which are said to have medicinal properties. Visitors can take a dip in the waters or explore the area’s many restaurants, shops and attractions.
10. Yudanaka Onsen
Yudanaka Onsen is located in Nagano Prefecture and is known for its natural hot springs. The area is also home to the world-famous Jigokudani Monkey Park, where visitors can observe wild monkeys bathing in the hot springs. The area is also home to a number of traditional Japanese inns and restaurants, so visitors can enjoy a relaxing stay while soaking in the hot springs.
Conclusion
Japan is home to some of the best hot springs in the world, and these 10 destinations are the best of the best. Whether you’re looking to relax in a traditional wooden bathhouse or explore a monkey park, these hot springs offer something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Japan to experience the healing power of its hot springs.
Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Dr. Sama Abbadi, and I am a passionate individual with a deep love for traveling and writing. These two passions intertwine in my life, shaping my experiences and fueling my creative spirit, The thrill of discovering new destinations, immersing myself in different cultures, and embracing the unknown is what drives me. From the captivating streets of bustling cities to the serenity of untouched natural landscapes, I find inspiration in every corner of the globe. Each journey I embark on is an opportunity to broaden my horizons, challenge my perspectives, and gather stories to share with others.