What images does Japan conjure up for you? The mixture of modernity and tradition, or fashion and the efficient society? However, for Japanese people, hot natural springs , or “Onsen” is one of the most popular aspects of Japan. In Japan, there are many areas where Onsen are abundant and have been loved by many Japanese people, so much so they have now become essential to domestic travel in Japan. With its high mineral content and healing attributes, Onsen are not only helps you to relax, but also offers you a great opportunity to experience Japanese culture.

5. Shibu-Yudanaka Onsen

Shibu-Yudanaka Onsen is the generic name of a group of nine separate onsen in Nagano Prefecture, the second largest onsen district after Beppu Onsen. Shibu-Yudanaka Onsen retains a traditional atmosphere with many Japanese inns and cobblestone streets, however the main attraction are the wild Japanese snow monkeys. At Jigokudani, or “Hell Valleys”, you can enjoy the natural park and also view the Japanese macaque monkeys indulging in the hot springs.

4. Ikaho Onsen

Ikaho Onsen is located in Gunma Prefecture and was originally a medical treatment place for the wounded warriors of the medieval civil war. A famous stone staircase is a symbol of the area with Ikaho Open-Air Bath situated nearby. Ikaho is also famous for a red-bean flavoured bun, known as Onsen Manju.

3. Wakura Onsen

Located at Nanao City in Ishikawa Prefecture in the Hokuriku area of Japan, Wakura Onsen is popular for its high quality hot springs, beautiful nature, and locally sourced food. Legend has it, that Wakura hot springs was ordered by a feudal lord to be used as a treatment for his illness and has since become a popular destination. Wakura Onsen is now known as one of the exclusive onsen districts in Japan with many high-class hotels, making it one of the best hot springs areas in Japan.

2. Beppu Onsen

Beppu Onsen in Oita Prefecture on Kyushu Island has one of the largest volumes of hot springs in the world, spread over 8 thermal districts. Because Beppu Onsen is located in a volcanic area, you can view many boiling springs and there is even the “Tour of Hell” walk along them. Beppu Onsen offers many interesting activities, such as “Mushiyu Steam Baths” or “Special Cuisine” cooked by using the emissions of hot springs.

1. Kusatsu Onsen

Kusatsu Onsen is an area located in Gunma Prefecture, which has a long history of popularity with Japanese public figures from medieval times. It is consistently voted as the number one onsen in Japan. The centre of the district has a large fountainhead, called “Yubatake” and is surrounded by elegant hotels and traditional Japanese inns. You can even experience the traditional activity of “Yumomi”, which involves stirring the hot water with a big wooden board to cool it down.

Top 5 Onsen Locations

Related Pages:

• Japanese Snow Monkeys
• Japanese Fireworks
• How to Order Sushi in Japanese?
• Top 5 unusual places to visit with your Japan Rail Pass
• Tanabata Festival

Tags: Beppu, Hot Springs, Ikaho, Japan, Kusatsu, Onsen, Shibu Yudanaka, Wakura

24/04/08 in Internal Travel, Japan, Japanese Events, News, Onsen.