Japan’s Top 5 Ultimate Healing Secret Onsen Spots – Legend Says 3 Days in the “White Bone Bath” Keeps You Cold-Free for 3 Years

▲ Rakuten Travel releases list of Japan’s Top 5 Ultimate Healing Secret Onsens. (Photo / Provided by Rakuten, same below)

Reported by Chen Ruizhong / Comprehensive report

Secret onsen spots are often nestled in serene mountain forests, far from the hustle and bustle. With their therapeutic hot springs, soaking has long been considered an important part of Japanese culture, and secret onsens are especially treasured as national gems. More and more travelers are planning special trips to these hidden gems. To that end, Rakuten Travel Reservation Network has released a list of Japan“Top 5 Ultimate Healing Secret Onsens”list, including unique therapeutic onsens such as the “Eel Soup” and “Longevity Soup.”

Eel Soup Ryokan with 300-Year History: Meitou Hitou Unagiyunoyado Takuhide
“Takuhide” is ranked as Miyagi Prefecture’s most popular secret onsen ryokan. Since 300 years ago, it has been known as the “Eel Soup” due to its association with Japanese eels. Although the hot spring here is strongly alkaline, it is rich in sodium bicarbonate sulfate containing sulfur powder. This sulfate spring acts like a toner, helping improve eczema and promote beautiful skin, making it ideal for women.

Hidden Longevity Spring at Iwai Onsen Ryokan: Iwai Onsen Iwaiya
Iwai Onsen Ryokan in Tottori Prefecture is known as the oldest inn in the region. Both the bath water and shower water here come directly from the source. One of its famous features is the “Longevity Spring,” where the water level can rise above chest height. It is the ryokan’s prized attraction. The open-air onsen “Suishaan,” surrounded by bamboo fences and available for free private booking, is also highly popular.

▲ Shokichi no Yu is famed for its strongly alkaline medicinal hot spring.

Shokichi no Yu: Relaxation and Healing
Located among the mountains of Okushita, “Shokichi no Yu” is known for its strongly alkaline medicinal hot spring. Its thick, milky water not only beautifies the skin but also relieves fatigue and treats conditions like frozen shoulder, arthritis, poor circulation, and chronic digestive diseases. It is very popular among visitors. While soaking in the open-air bath, you can also enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery of Okushita – a must-visit secret onsen spot.

Shirafune Grand Hotel: 3 Days in the “White Bone Bath” Keeps You Cold-Free for 3 Years
Just a few hours’ drive from Tokyo, Shirafune Grand Hotel features the so-called “White Bone Bath,” a simple hydrogen sulfide spring. Known for its benefits in intestinal health, diabetes treatment, and skin beautification, it continues to attract visitors. Legend says that soaking in Shirafune Onsen for three days keeps you free from colds and illness for the next three years. In addition, the open-air bath at night is surrounded by a starry sky, creating a romantic and beautiful scene – a perfect holiday retreat.

▲ Legend says three days in Shirafune Onsen keeps you cold-free for three years.

Kawako Onsen: Where Guests Throw Away Their Canes
It has long been said that Kawako Onsen’s gift to guests is “helping them throw away their canes.” Rich in calcium and sulfate ions, it offers benefits for the nervous system, blood vessels, skin beautification, and fatigue recovery, making it a favorite among elderly visitors.