Not Just for Soaking: Japan’s Top 10 Scenic Hot Springs

By MOOK Travel Editorial Team

Japan sits on the volcanic seismic belt, with countless hot springs stretching from north to south. Below is a list of Japan’s ten most popular hot springs, including Kawaguchiko Onsen with views of Mount Fuji, Tamatsukuri Onsen famed for its skin-beautifying waters, Yamanashi Onsen where you can enjoy snowscapes, and several others with long histories—perfect destinations for travelers.

1. Yamagata Prefecture – Yamanashi Onsen
Yamanashi Onsen in Yamagata Prefecture, northeastern Japan, captured hearts in Taiwan thanks to the TV drama “Oshin.” Once thriving due to silver mining, this famous hot spring town also served as the inspiration for the bathhouse in Studio Ghibli’s “Spirited Away.” In winter, when heavy snow blankets the area, snow can accumulate up to 1.5–2 meters deep. The wooden inns lining the streets, adorned with snow, exude a serene beauty. Soaking in the warm springs under these conditions offers an indescribable sense of happiness.

2. Yamanashi Prefecture – Kawaguchiko Onsen

At the foot of Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji lies Kawaguchiko Onsen, one of the country’s premier hot spring resorts. Here, you can enjoy both the majestic views of Mount Fuji and the charm of the hot springs. There are also many ryokan and hotels, attracting large numbers of foreign tourists all year round.

3. Shimane Prefecture – Tamatsukuri Onsen

Tamatsukuri Onsen in Shimane Prefecture is renowned as the “Hot Spring for Beautiful Skin.” It is also enhanced by nearby power spots such as Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine and Yaegaki Shrine, attracting many female visitors on a regular basis. To boost student group visits, a “Student Travel Support Program” has been launched until March 31, offering customized services for students.

4. Ōita Prefecture – Beppu Onsen Town

Beppu Onsen is the world’s largest hot spring resort for bathing and has the highest number of hot springs in Japan. Among its most famous sites are the “Hells of Beppu,” comprising eight unique thermal areas: Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell), Oniishibozu Jigoku (Monk’s Head Hell), Yama Jigoku (Mountain Hell), Kamado Jigoku (Cooking Pot Hell), Oniyama Jigoku (Demon Mountain Hell), Shiraike Jigoku (White Pond Hell), Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell), and Tatsumaki Jigoku (Tornado Hell). Each offers distinctive spring qualities for a memorable hot spring pilgrimage.