As part of my research for my new Hokkaido travel book, Super Cheap Hokkaido, I went to a hot spring town that I had been hoping to visit for a long time, Kawayu Onsen. On the eastern side of Hokkaido, it’s pretty much away from where most tourists will go, but could still be consideredContinue reading “Exploring Kawayu Onsen – Hokkaido’s best hot spring town?”
Category Archives: Best Hot Springs in Japan
Matsuyama and Dogo Onsen
Matsuyama (松山) is a popular tourist city in Shikoku, best known for Dogo Onsen (道後温泉). Considered to be the best hot spring town in the prefecture, it makes the city a great place to spend a day. Located on the north-west of Shikoku, it Matsuyama is also easily accessible from the main island (such as via cheapContinue reading “Matsuyama and Dogo Onsen”
Kusatsu Onsen
Kusatsu Onsen (草津温泉) is a hot spring town in the Japanese Alps, and popular with Japanese tourists. Foreign visitors should not expect to find they are the only non-Japanese tourists here, but the town is one of best for hot spring experiences. The stunning hot spring water that flows though the centre of town isContinue reading “Kusatsu Onsen”
Kaga Onsen
Kaga Onsen (加賀温泉) is a collection of easily and cheaply accessible hot spring areas. Each area has its own distinct feel and is worth visiting even if you are shy about hot springs due to the many foot baths and relaxing scenery and cafes. Budget travel tips Get a CANBUS pass for unlimited bus travel toContinue reading “Kaga Onsen”
Beppu
Do you want to experience the most crazy, odd and extreme hot springs in Japan? Beppu (別府) is the place to come. Beppu has the most variety of any hot spring area in western Japan, with all types of water properties and minerals. Budget travel tips For the Eight Hells, get a combination ticket forContinue reading “Beppu”
Unzen Onsen
Unzen Onsen (雲仙温泉) is the most famous hot spring resort near Nagasaki. After experiencing city life, it’s a great place to spend a few days, relaxing in the baths and going on some interesting walks. Budget travel tips Book as early as possible, as prices can get super pricey. If the weather looks bad, beContinue reading “Unzen Onsen”
Noboribetsu Onsen
Along with nearby Lake Toya, Noboribetsu Onsen (登別温泉) is a great place for budget travelers who want to experience an onsen (hot spring). With lots of volcanic activity to see, plenty of walking and hiking routes and free hot springs, this place has to be seriously considered if you are coming to Hokkaido! Budget travel tips BookContinue reading “Noboribetsu Onsen”
Sounkyo Onsen
Sounkyo Onsen (層雲峡温泉) is a famous hot spring town in the Daisetsuzan National Park in central Hokkaido. Better equipped for budget tourists than Asahidake, it’s also a great place to start a hike into the unspoiled mountains. Budget travel tips Stay at a mountain hut or camp site to save on costs. Ask at theContinue reading “Sounkyo Onsen”
Nyuto Onsen
Nyuto Onsen (乳頭温泉) is one of the most famous hot spring towns in Japan, with it’s silky white water and traditionally styled hot spring buildings. It’s a great place to spend some time relaxing or hiking in Tohoku. Budget travel tips Most hot springs only open from 10AM to 2/3PM for non-staying guests. Bring a towel,Continue reading “Nyuto Onsen”
Yudanaka
Yudanaka and nearby Shibu Onsen are traditional hot spring areas, full of interesting old buildings, restaurants and shrines. The area is well known for it’s monkey park, where monkeys play in a hot spring. Budget travel tips Makes for a great side trip from Nagano or Matsumoto. The train to Yudanaka also stops at Obuse, a stunning town toContinue reading “Yudanaka”
Sakura Hot Spring
Sakura Onsen is a modern hot spring in Tokyo that uses real hot spring water. It also includes a traditional restaurant, where you can sit on Japanese tatami mats, a relaxation zone to chill out and massage services. Plus, you can get a haircut if you really want to! Budget travel tips Save some moneyContinue reading “Sakura Hot Spring”