There’s nothing quite like soaking in a natural hot spring after a day of exploring. Here at Ryokans of Japan, we’ve traveled far and wide to find the best onsen towns in the country—each perfect for an authentic ryokan experience. These towns aren’t just about hot water; they’re gateways to history, local culture, and unforgettable moments. Read on to discover 14 must-visit onsen destinations for your next Japanese adventure.

1. Gero Onsen (Gifu Prefecture)

We admire Gero Onsen for its famously smooth, skin-friendly waters—often called the “springs for beauty.” The Hida River provides a gentle soundtrack as it flows through town, adding to the soothing atmosphere. Many ryokans feature open-air baths overlooking the river, giving you a serene place to unwind. Plus, the local community is warm and welcoming, which makes every visit feel a bit like returning home.

What to Do

• Morning Markets: Gero sometimes hosts small local markets where you can sample fresh produce and regional snacks.
• Historic Temples: Check out nearby temples like Onsen-ji for a glimpse of traditional architecture.
• Local Delicacy: Don’t miss Hida beef—Gero is close to Takayama, another city famous for top-grade wagyu.

Getting There

It’s around 2.5 hours from Nagoya by train. If you’re coming from Tokyo, take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya, then switch to the JR Hida line.

Where to Stay: Best Ryokans in Gero Onsen

2. Kurokawa Onsen (Kumamoto Prefecture)

Kurokawa Onsen captivates us with its rustic charm and tranquil setting in the mountains near Mount Aso. Wooden bridges and forested pathways make for postcard-worthy scenes at every turn. Each ryokan tends to have a unique twist on hot spring baths—some hidden in rock caves, others perched next to a flowing river—so you can have different soaking experiences in a single trip. The cozy, traditional wooden buildings also give the town a time-worn allure that’s easy to fall in love with.

What to Do

• Onsen-Hopping Pass: With the “tegata” (wooden pass), you can dip into three different ryokan baths of your choice.
• Cave and Riverside Baths: Some ryokans feature unique cave onsens or open-air tubs right by the river.
• Local Shops: Wander the small streets lined with cafés, souvenir spots, and sweet shops serving homemade desserts.

Getting There

A rental car is ideal, though buses connect Kurokawa with Kumamoto City and Fukuoka. The journey is part of the adventure as you wind through scenic mountain roads.

Where to Stay: Best Ryokans in Kurokawa Onsen

3. Dogo Onsen (Ehime Prefecture)

Said to be one of Japan’s oldest hot spring areas, Dogo Onsen charms us with its strong cultural heritage. The iconic Dogo Onsen Honkan—the wooden bathhouse that inspired scenes in “Spirited Away”—is a labyrinth of nostalgic corridors. Beyond the baths, the lively shopping arcade offers citrus-infused sweets (Ehime is known for its mikan oranges) and a range of unique souvenirs. It’s the kind of place where you can truly feel centuries of history beneath your feet.

What to Do

• Dogo Onsen Honkan: Explore the labyrinth of rooms and passages in this famous bathhouse.
• Local Matsuyama Cuisine: Savor fresh seafood and the region’s specialty, Tai Meshi (sea bream over rice).
• Shopping Arcade: Stroll through the covered arcade for local snacks and souvenirs, including unique citrus products from Ehime.

Getting There

From Tokyo, fly or take a train to Matsuyama. From Matsuyama Station, hop on a short tram ride to reach Dogo Onsen.

Where to Stay: Best Ryokans in Dogo Onsen

4. Nozawa Onsen (Nagano Prefecture)

Nozawa Onsen pairs its famed ski slopes with equally impressive hot springs, making it a year-round gem. Thirteen free public baths (soto-yu) are scattered around the village, each with its own local charm. We love how the town retains a cozy, unpretentious vibe—people are here to enjoy the great outdoors, then warm up in naturally heated water. And if you’re here in winter, soaking in a steaming bath while snow gently falls outside is downright magical.

What to Do

• 13 Soto-yu (Public Baths): Pick up a map to visit these free neighborhood baths, each with a distinct ambience.
• Winter Sports: Ski or snowboard in the colder months, then warm up in a local onsen.
• Nozawana Pickles: Try this regional specialty made from a type of leaf mustard—it’s a staple with local meals.

Getting There

Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Iiyama Station, then a bus to Nozawa Onsen. The town is compact and easy to explore on foot.

Where to Stay: Best Ryokans in Nozawa Onsen

5. Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma Prefecture)

Kusatsu Onsen’s sulfur-rich waters are celebrated for their alleged healing properties, but what really sets it apart is the lively townscape. The Yubatake is a dramatic hot-water field that’s constantly steaming, creating an otherworldly scene in the center of town. We’re also big fans of the yumomi show, where locals stir the water with wooden paddles to cool it down—a centuries-old ritual that’s both entertaining and culturally significant.

What to Do

• Yumomi Show: Watch the traditional method of cooling down the hot spring water, complete with singing and wooden paddles.
• Sainokawara Park: Stroll the park’s boardwalks and find footbaths for a quick soak.
• Netsu no Yu: Experience a small bathhouse that provides an up-close look at local bathing customs.

Getting There

Buses run frequently from Naganohara-Kusatsuguchi Station (on the JR Agatsuma Line) to Kusatsu Onsen. It’s about 3 hours from Tokyo.

Where to Stay: Best Ryokans in Kusatsu Onsen

6. Hakone (Kanagawa Prefecture)

Hakone is our classic go-to spot when we need a break from Tokyo. The variety of onsen experiences—private open-air tubs with Mount Fuji views, large communal baths with garden vistas—keeps us coming back. On top of that, Hakone’s cable cars, museums (like the Open-Air Museum), and Lake Ashi boat cruises ensure that relaxation is balanced with adventure. It’s the kind of place where you can do a lot or do nothing at all—and both feel absolutely perfect.

What to Do

• Hakone Free Pass: Great for unlimited rides on local trains, buses, cable cars, and the lake pirate ship.
• Owakudani: Sample the famous black eggs boiled in sulfuric hot springs.
• Art Museums: Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum or the Pola Museum for art in a stunning natural setting.

Getting There

Take the Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station. From there, local transport leads you to various hotspots.

Where to Stay: Best Ryokans in Hakone with Private Onsen

7. Kinosaki Onsen (Hyogo Prefecture)

Walking through Kinosaki Onsen feels like stepping into a living postcard. Willow trees line a central canal, stone bridges connect quaint streets, and everyone strolls around in yukata (cotton robes). We absolutely love the “onsen-hopping” culture here—each of the seven public bathhouses has a distinct personality and style. It’s the perfect setting for a relaxing stroll, whether you’re sampling local crab (in winter) or snapping pictures of the pretty lantern-lit streets at night.

What to Do

• Seven Bathhouses: Collect stamps from each hot spring for a fun souvenir.
• Onsenji Temple: Ride a ropeway up the hill for panoramic views of Kinosaki.
• Winter Crab Season: Savor the local crab dishes, a famous delicacy from the Sea of Japan coastline.

Getting There

Catch a direct limited express train from Osaka to Kinosaki Onsen Station. Most ryokans are within walking distance of the station.

Where to Stay: Best Ryokans in Kinosaki Onsen

8. Noboribetsu Onsen (Hokkaido)

Noboribetsu Onsen’s highlight is Jigokudani (Hell Valley), where steam vents and sulfuric ponds create a surreal, almost lunar landscape. The hot springs here are packed with minerals straight from volcanic sources, making the water extra therapeutic. We find winter particularly enchanting—snow-capped forests contrasting against the rising steam is an unforgettable sight. It’s also a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions like Bear Park or Edo Wonderland in the same region.

What to Do

• Hell Valley Trails: Hike around the valley for eerie and impressive volcanic sights.
• Oyunuma River Footbath: Relax your feet in the warm river area with a natural “foot spa.”
• Theme Parks: Families can explore the local marine park or Edo-themed village for extra fun.

Getting There

From Sapporo, take the JR train to Noboribetsu Station, then a short bus ride to the onsen town.

Where to Stay: Best Ryokans in Noboribetsu Onsen

9. Arima Onsen (Hyogo Prefecture)

Arima Onsen’s pedigree as one of Japan’s oldest spa towns is palpable the moment you arrive. We’re fascinated by the contrast between “Kinsen” (gold water) and “Ginsen” (silver water), each with distinct mineral compositions. The winding alleyways and historic wooden buildings take you back in time, yet it’s all located just a short trip from modern cities like Osaka and Kobe. It’s an easy add-on to any Kansai itinerary if you’re craving a touch of hot spring history.

What to Do

• Kinsen and Ginsen Comparison: Many ryokans offer both types of baths—try each to see which you prefer.
• Historic Streets: Stroll the narrow lanes for artisanal snacks and local crafts.
• Easily Accessible: Great for combining with visits to Osaka, Kobe, or Kyoto.

Getting There

It’s about an hour from Osaka via bus or train. The Arima-Kobe area is known for its scenic mountain roads and cable cars.

Where to Stay: Best Ryokans in Arima Onsen

10. Atami Onsen (Shizuoka Prefecture)

Atami Onsen combines coastal flair with onsen relaxation. The town’s location on the edge of Sagami Bay means you can soak in a hot spring bath while gazing out at the ocean—a dreamy sight if there ever was one. We’re also fans of Atami’s vibrant cultural scene, from fireworks festivals to the MOA Museum of Art perched high above the bay. Best of all, it’s a quick ride from Tokyo, making it perfect for those who want a speedy weekend escape.

What to Do

• Fireworks Festivals: Atami frequently hosts fireworks displays over the bay—an unforgettable spectacle.
• MOA Museum of Art: Enjoy art and a beautiful garden on a hill overlooking the ocean.
• Seafood Feasts: Indulge in fresh sashimi and other local seafood specialties.

Getting There

A short Shinkansen ride from Tokyo lands you in Atami, making it a popular weekend getaway.

Where to Stay: Best Ryokans in Atami Onsen

11. Yufuin Onsen (Oita Prefecture)

Yufuin Onsen rests amid gentle hills and quaint farmland, offering a slower pace that helps you truly disconnect. We find the morning mist rolling over Lake Kinrin especially magical—it’s like a scene straight out of a painting. Yufuin’s main street bustles with cafés, artisan boutiques, and soft-spoken locals who take pride in their craft. Many ryokans come with private open-air baths facing Mount Yufu, giving you a front-row seat to Oita’s natural splendor.

What to Do

• Lake Kinrin: Stroll around the lake, especially in the early morning for a mystical fog.
• Art Galleries: Discover small museums and galleries featuring local artisans.
• Local Bakeries: Try the region’s famous milk pudding, a sweet treat many ryokans serve as dessert.

Getting There

Take the Yufu Express from Fukuoka (Hakata Station) or Oita. Bus options are also available from Beppu and other regional cities.

Where to Stay: Best Ryokans in Yufuin Onsen

12. Beppu Onsen (Oita Prefecture)

Beppu Onsen is a hotbed of geothermal activity—literally! We’re always excited by the range of onsen experiences: mud baths, steam baths, and even sand baths where you’re buried in naturally heated sand. While the “Hells of Beppu” aren’t for bathing (they’re boiling hot), they’re fascinating to explore. Strolling through different hot spring districts, each with its own specialty, ensures you’ll never get bored. Plus, you can sample hot spring-cooked treats like pudding or eggs along the way.

What to Do

• Eight Onsen Areas: Explore each district’s specialty, from mud springs to high-pressure steam.
• Beppu Jigoku Meguri: A tour of the “Hells,” featuring vibrant blue or blood-red boiling springs.
• Local Street Food: Enjoy hot spring-steamed dishes like eggs, dumplings, and vegetables.

Getting There

Shinkansen access to Kokura or Oita, then transfer to local trains or buses that reach Beppu. The city’s onsen areas are spread out, so plan accordingly.

Where to Stay: Best Ryokans in Beppu Onsen

13. Kinugawa Onsen (Tochigi Prefecture)

Kinugawa Onsen sits along a tranquil river gorge, offering natural beauty and easy access from Tokyo. We appreciate how the ryokans often feature riverside balconies where you can relax with a cup of tea as the water rushes by. If you’re traveling with family, it’s a fantastic base for visiting Edo Wonderland or Tobu World Square. We also love coming here in autumn when the surrounding hills blaze with vibrant foliage.

What to Do

• Riverside Ryokans: Enjoy tea and conversation on terraces overlooking the Kinugawa River.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Pop over to Edo Wonderland for samurai shows and historical reenactments.
• Seasonal Foliage: Autumn turns the surrounding hills vibrant shades of red and gold.

Getting There

Take the Tobu train from Asakusa in Tokyo to Kinugawa Onsen Station—convenient for a day or overnight trip.

Where to Stay: Best Ryokans in Kinugawa Onsen

14. Ito Onsen (Shizuoka Prefecture)

Ito Onsen offers a refreshing mix of hot spring culture and seaside relaxation. We adore how many ryokans provide private open-air baths facing the ocean—there’s something magical about the sound of rolling waves paired with warm, mineral-rich water. The town itself is walkable and has a laid-back beach vibe, complete with fresh seafood at every turn. For nature lovers, the nearby Jogasaki Coast’s cliff walks and scenic views are an absolute treat.

What to Do

• Coastal Walks: Stroll along the waterfront or explore the nearby Jogasaki Coast with its dramatic cliffs.
• Fresh Seafood: Sample locally caught fish, sashimi, and other ocean delights.
• Local Festivals: Ito frequently hosts fireworks events and seasonal celebrations by the sea.

Getting There

About 100 minutes from Tokyo by train on the JR Odoriko line or the faster Super View Odoriko, taking you straight into the heart of the Izu Peninsula.

—

We firmly believe that onsen towns provide some of the most immersive and soothing experiences in the country. Whether you’re craving mountain views, coastal bliss, or a glimpse of centuries-old traditions, each of these 14 towns delivers something special. Picture yourself in a warm yukata, savoring a multi-course kaiseki meal, and letting the hot spring waters melt your stress away. It’s an unforgettable way to connect with Japan’s natural and cultural treasures.

We hope this guide helps you plan your next onsen getaway. If you do visit any of these towns, share your experiences with us—we’d love to hear your stories and see how your journey unfolds. Happy soaking!