Japan, a country known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, is also famed for its hot springs (温泉, onsen). With thousands of hot springs scattered across the Japanese archipelago, onsen have become a symbol of relaxation and rejuvenation. Beyond a mere bathing experience, onsens offer a profound cultural journey, a chance to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of the outside world. In this guide, let Designer Journeys bring you into the magical world of Japanese hot springs, exploring their significance, the different types, onsen etiquette, and the best destinations to experience this unique cultural gem.
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Cultural Immersion: Hot Springs in Japan
History of Hot Springs in Japan
Throughout the history of Japan, hot springs, known as ‘onsen’ in Japanese, have held significant cultural importance. The first documented hot spring in Japan, Dogo Onsen in Ehime Prefecture, dates back to 712. Many of Japan’s hot springs were initially discovered by ancient hunters during their hunting excursions.
Renowned for their natural beauty and distinctiveness, hot springs have traditionally been revered as a divine gift. Their popularity surged with the introduction of Buddhism to Japan in 552 AD, as bathing was considered a means of purification and cleansing in Buddhist practice. Despite efforts by Christian missionaries around the 1550s to discourage the practice of bathing in hot springs, citing it as offensive, their attempts proved futile, as Japan’s profound affection for onsen had already become deeply entrenched in the culture.
History of Japanese hot springs
In 1709, the healing properties of hot springs were discovered, which led to the eventual commercialization of hot springs. Today, going to the hot springs remains a beloved activity for Japanese people, who recognize the benefits of health, relaxation, and enjoyment that only a dip in a hot spring offers.
Health Benefits of Hot Springs
Bathing in hot springs is not just a leisure activity; it also offers numerous health benefits. The mineral-rich waters are known for their therapeutic properties, including:
- Improving Blood Circulation: The warm water helps to dilate blood vessels, enhancing blood flow and promoting overall cardiovascular health.
- Relieving Pain and Muscle Tension: The heat and minerals can alleviate muscle and joint pain, making onsen a popular choice for those with arthritis or sports injuries.
- Skin Health: The minerals in the water can improve skin conditions, making the skin softer and smoother.
- Stress Relief: The relaxing environment and warm water help to reduce stress and promote mental well-being.
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Types of Hot Springs
Natural Hot Springs
Natural hot springs are formed by geothermal activity. As groundwater is heated by the Earth’s magma, it rises to the surface, creating pools of hot water rich in minerals. These mineral-rich waters are believed to have various health benefits, from improving blood circulation to relieving muscle pain.
Natural hot spring in Beppu.
Sand Baths and Unique Hot Springs
Japan also boasts unique hot springs, such as sand baths, where visitors are buried in naturally heated sand. An example is found in Ibusuki, Kagoshima Prefecture, where the hot sand baths are a popular attraction.
Another unique experience is the “Hell Valley” (Jigokudani) in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, where the landscape is dotted with steaming vents and boiling hot springs, providing a surreal and otherworldly experience.
Watching Snow Monkey in Jigokudani is a unique experience in Japan.
Etiquette and Onsen Experience
To fully enjoy the onsen experience, it’s important to follow proper etiquette:
- Bathing Suits: Typically, bathing suits are not worn in onsen. Visitors are expected to bathe nude, although some modern facilities offer mixed-gender baths where swimsuits are allowed.
- Small Towel: A small towel is used for modesty and cleaning purposes but should not be brought into the bath.
- Cleanliness: Before entering the bath, it is essential to thoroughly wash and rinse your body to maintain the cleanliness of the onsen water.
- Quiet and Respectful: Onsen are places of relaxation; loud noises and disruptive behaviour are discouraged.
Onsen Towns and Stunning Views
Japan’s onsen towns are often located in areas of outstanding natural beauty, offering stunning views and unique experiences:
Mount Fuji
Hakone, near Mount Fuji, is a popular onsen destination with breathtaking views of Japan’s iconic mountain. The combination of hot spring baths and the majestic backdrop of Mount Fuji makes for an unforgettable experience.
Snow Monkeys
Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano Prefecture, you can witness wild snow monkeys bathing in natural hot springs. This unique sight is especially popular during the winter months when the monkeys seek warmth in the steaming waters.
National Parks
Many onsen are located within Japan’s national parks, offering access to pristine nature and wildlife. Oze National Park and Nikko National Park are just a few examples of places where you can enjoy hot spring baths and the great outdoors.
Famous Hot Springs in Japan (2024 Update)
1. Gero Onsen
Gero Onsen, located in Gifu Prefecture, is often referred to as one of the top onsen in Japan, a reputation it has held since the Edo period. The onsen’s history dates back over a thousand years, with records mentioning its therapeutic waters as early as the 10th century.
Gero Onsen resort town, one of the best onsen in Japan.
The waters of Gero Onsen are highly alkaline, with a smooth, slippery texture that is gentle on the skin. Bathers often said that their skin feels significantly softer and smoother after soaking in these waters, which are believed to have rejuvenating properties. The town’s quaint charm, featuring traditional wooden ryokan and public foot baths, completes the serene atmosphere.
2. Kusatsu Onsen
Kusatsu Onsen, located in Gunma Prefecture, is famous for its high-quality hot spring water, which is believed to cure every illness except lovesickness. The onsen has been renowned since the Edo period, receiving high praise from the shogunate. In the 19th century, the famous German doctor, Erwin von Baelz also emphasized Kusatsu’s medicinal benefits.
Kusatsu Onsen has wonderful views with high-quality hot spring water.
The water at Kusatsu Onsen is highly acidic and rich in sulfur, which gives it powerful antibacterial properties. The Yubatake, or “hot water field,” is the town’s symbol and one of the most photographed spots in Kusatsu. Here, hot spring water gushes out at high temperatures and cools down before being distributed to various baths.
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3. Arima Onsen
Another gem in Hyogo Prefecture, Arima Onsen is one of Japan’s oldest and most famous hot spring resorts, with a history that spans over a millennium. Knowned for its two distinct types of hot spring water: kinsen (gold spring) and ginsen (silver spring), Arima offers a luxurious onsen experience.
Arima Onsen is one of the oldest hot springs in Japan.
The kinsen water is rich in iron and salt, giving it a reddish-brown hue and a distinctive metallic taste. It is known for its therapeutic benefits, particularly for muscle pain and fatigue. The ginsen water, on the other hand, is clear and contains radium and carbonate, believed to help alleviate various skin conditions and promote overall wellness.
4. Dogo Onsen
As Japan’s oldest hot spring, Dogo Onsen in Ehime Prefecture holds a special place in Japanese culture. The main bathhouse, Dogo Onsen Honkan, is an iconic wooden structure that has been designated an Important Cultural Property. This bathhouse is famously known to have inspired the animated film “Spirited Away.”
The Main Building, a symbol of Dogo Onsen is said to be Japan’s oldest hot spring.
Image source: Dogo Onsen Official Website.
The Main Building offers a timeless experience with its beautiful architecture and historical ambience. The waters of Dogo Onsen are mildly alkaline and are said to be effective in treating various ailments, including digestive disorders and rheumatism. The bathhouse offers different bathing options, including a special bathing room reserved for the Imperial Family.
5. Kinosaki Onsen
In Hyogo Prefecture, Kinosaki Onsen is a charming hot spring town known for its seven public baths, each with its own unique features. Kinosaki Onsen offers a quintessentially Japanese onsen experience, complete with charming ryokan, traditional wooden architecture, and willow-lined canals. You can wear a cotton kimono (yukata) and wooden sandals (geta) while strolling through the town and visiting different bathhouses.
Kinosaki Onsen on Spring Cherry Blossoms season.
Planning Your Onsen Trip
When planning a trip to enjoy hot springs in Japan, consider the following tips:
- Research: Look into the different types of onsen and what each offers in terms of scenery, water quality, and health benefits.
- Season: Each season offers a different onsen experience. Winter is ideal for snowy landscapes, while spring and autumn provide beautiful seasonal views. Some hot springs also host special events or festivals that can add cultural richness to your experience.
- Accommodation: Staying in traditional Japanese inns (ryokan) enhances the onsen experience. These inns offer tatami rooms, kaiseki (multi-course) meals, and often private baths.
- Day Trips: If you’re short on time, many onsen towns offer day trip options from major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto.
FAQs
Q: Can foreigners go to hot springs in Japan?
A: Absolutely! Foreigners are welcome at hot springs throughout Japan. While there are some cultural etiquettes to be mindful of, such as washing thoroughly before entering the onsen and bathing nude, these practices are part of the unique charm of the experience. Many hot springs in tourist-friendly areas provide instructions in English and are accustomed to hosting international visitors.
Q: What is the price of hot springs in Japan?
A: The cost of visiting hot springs in Japan can vary widely depending on the type of onsen and the level of luxury. Public baths and smaller onsen may charge as little as 500 to 1,500 yen (approximately $5 to $15 USD) for entry, while high-end ryokan with private onsen can cost significantly more, often ranging from 15,000 to 50,000 yen (approximately $150 to $500 USD) per night, including meals and accommodation.
Q: Do you wear clothes in an onsen?
A: In Japanese traditional onsen etiquette, you do not wear clothes in the communal baths. Instead, they use a small towel for modesty, which is set aside before entering the water. Some modern facilities, especially those catering to international visitors, may offer private or mixed-gender baths where swimwear is allowed.
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Japan’s hot springs are more than just a place to bathe; they are a deep-seated cultural tradition that offers relaxation, healing, and a connection to nature. Whether you’re visiting a famous resort like Kusatsu Onsen, exploring the historic baths of Dogo Onsen, or enjoying the scenic beauty of onsen towns near Mount Fuji, the experience is sure to be unforgettable. So, pack your yukata, embrace the onsen culture, and embark on a journey to discover the best of Japan’s hot spring treasures.
