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Hot springs near Tokyo offer the perfect retreat to warm up during the cooler months, as Japan boasts an array of such soothing destinations. Fortunately, there are numerous onsen towns in proximity to Tokyo, allowing you to relax and rejuvenate in mineral-rich waters.
Here, we'll present ten of the best onsen near Tokyo, all of which are easily accessible by train or bus. Utilize our recommendations, which delve into the unique features and benefits of each hot spring, to curate your ideal winter escape in Japan.
1. Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma): Famous as one of Japan's Top Three hot springs areas
Kusatsu Onsen is a charming hot spring town located in the Agatsuma district of Gunma Prefecture in the Kanto region. It is well-known for its Yubatake, a hot water field that is the town's centerpiece and helps to adjust the temperature of the hot spring water for bathing.
Kusatsu Onsen is also considered one of Japan's top three hot springs, alongside Arima Onsen in Hyogo Prefecture and Gero Onsen in Gifu Prefecture.
The hot spring water at Kusatsu Onsen is very hot, around 55 degrees Celsius, and is believed to offer numerous health benefits.
Visitors can purchase "Yunohana," the sediment that is extracted from the Yubatake, which is highly concentrated in hot spring minerals and is sold as a bathing agent. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the "yumomi" show, where the hot spring water is stirred to cool it down, and watch the beautiful illumination of the Yubatake at night.
About Kusatsu Onsen
Features
Kusatsu Onsen boasts the highest natural hot spring water output in Japan. More than 32,300 liters of hot spring water gushes out every minute. The water's quality is highly acidic, which contributes to its potent sterilizing properties.
Size of spa resort area
There are over 100 hotels and hot spring inns in Kusatsu Onsen, with a concentration of souvenir shops and restaurants around the Yubatake area.
Getting there
To reach Kusatsu Onsen from JR Ueno Station, take the "Tokkyu Kusatsu" limited express train to Nagano-Kusatsuguchi Station, then transfer to a JR bus and disembark at the "Kusatsu" stop. This journey takes approximately three hours.
Spring qualities and benefits
Cuts and burns, neuralgia, bruises, diabetes, hypertension, etc.
Main hotels in the area
Kusatsu Onsen Nagataya, Kusatsu Hotel, Kusatsu Onsen Ozu no Koyado Hanaingen
Kusatsu Onsen Eidaya 草津温泉 永田屋 Address: Kusatsu 464-285, Kusatsu, Gunma, 377-1711 View Map Nearest Station: Haneo Station (JR Agatsuma Line)
Kusatsu Onsen Kusatsu Hotel 1913 草津温泉 草津ホテル 1913 Address: Kusatsu 479, Kusatsu, Gunma, 377-1711 View Map Nearest Station: Haneo Station (JR Agatsuma Line)
Hanaingen 草津温泉 お豆の小宿 花いんげん Address: 92, Kusatsu, Gunma, 377-1711 View Map Nearest Station: Haneo Station (JR Agatsuma Line)
2. Ikaho Onsen (Gunma): A town of stone steps and hot spring manju sweets
Image Courtesy of Gugutto Gunma Photo Gallery
Ikaho Onsen is a delightful hot spring town located in Gunma Prefecture that has been thriving since ancient times. Records dating back over 600 years reveal the existence of hot springs in the area. The heart of the town is a flight of 365 stone steps, and as you make your way up, you'll find souvenir shops, restaurants, and game centers, making it a fun and lively destination.
One must-try treat in Ikaho Onsen is the famous "Yunohana Manju," a classic souvenir of Japanese hot spring towns that is said to have originated here. These unique treats have a brown outer layer and a taste that is hard to forget. Be sure to grab some before you leave!
About Ikaho Onsen
Features There are two types of hot springs in Kusatsu Onsen: the "Golden Water" and the "Silver Water." The Golden Water turns a brownish color due to oxidized iron content, while the Silver Water is clear and colorless, hence the name.
Size of spa resort area There are around 50 lodging facilities affiliated with the Ikaho Onsen Ryokan Cooperative. Visitors can purchase souvenirs at the shops along the stone steps, and there are also nearby museums and art galleries to explore.
Getting there The "Tokkyu Kusatsu" limited express train from JR Ueno Station takes about 1 hour and 30-40 minutes to reach Shibukawa Station.
Spring qualities and benefits Golden Water: Neuralgia, skin diseases, high blood pressure, etc. Silver Water: Recovery from illness and fatigue, health promotion, etc.
Main hotels in the area Oyado Tamaki, Kishigon Ryokan, Kaichoro
Oyado Tamaki お宿玉樹 Address: Ikaho 87-2, Shibukawa, Gunma, 377-0102 View Map Nearest Station: Ubashima Station (JR Agatsuma Line)
Kishigon Ryokan 岸権旅館 Address: Ikahomachi, Ikaho 48, Shibukawa, Gunma, 377-0102 View Map Nearest Station: Ubashima Station (JR Agatsuma Line)
3. Manza Onsen (Gunma): Hot springs located in a national park near a popular ski resort
Images Courtesy of Gugutto Gunma Photo Gallery
Manza Onsen is a cute hot spring located in Tsumagoi Village, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture, within the Joshinetsu Kogen National Park. With a rich history dating back 400 years, it's been a go-to spot for many people seeking the healing properties of the hot springs.
Whether you visit in spring to take in the fresh greenery or in fall to enjoy the beautiful autumn leaves, you're sure to enjoy the natural scenery in all four seasons. At an altitude of 1,800 meters, it's also a popular summer resort to escape the heat. And during winter, it's recommended to combine your hot spring experience with a visit to the nearby Manza Onsen Ski Resort for some fun in the snow. Plus, with its convenient location near Karuizawa, you won't have any trouble finding shopping opportunities.
About Manza Onsen
Features
Manza Onsen is known for its abundant hot spring water, with a daily output of approximately 5.4 million liters. It is said to have over 20 types of hot spring sources, making it a unique and diverse onsen near Tokyo.
Size of spa resort area
There are around nine hotels near the Joshinetsu Kogen National Park, which are designed with skiers in mind. These hotels are conveniently located near Manza Onsen and offer a range of facilities.
Getting there
To get to Manza Onsen from Tokyo, you can take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Karuizawa and then take a bus to the onsen, which takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Spring qualities and benefits
Sulfur spring. Beneficial for respiratory disease, gastrointestinal disease, rheumatism, skin disease, etc.
Main hotels in the area
Manza Kogen Hotel, Manza Prince Hotel
Manza Kogen Hotel 万座高原ホテル Address: Hoshimata 2401, Tsumagoi, Gunma, 377-1595 View Map Nearest Station: Fukurogura Station (JR Agatsuma Line)
Manza Prince Hotel 万座プリンスホテル Address: Manzaonsen, Tsumagoi, Gunma, 377-1595 View Map Nearest Station: Fukurogura Station (JR Agatsuma Line)
4. Shima Onsen (Gunma): These hot springs are believed to have healing powers
Images Courtesy of Gugutto Gunma Photo Gallery
Shima Onsen is a fascinating hot spring with an interesting legend behind its name. The Chinese characters "四万" mean "40,000," and according to the legend, bathing in the hot springs can cure all 40,000 known illnesses. Who wouldn't want to give that a try?
Aside from the beautifying effects of the hot spring water, there are several drinking fountains on the premises where visitors can enjoy the health benefits of the water, which is said to be good for the stomach and gut.
The Sekizenkan Ryokan located within Shima Onsen is also rumored to have inspired the bathhouse in the Ghibli movie Spirited Away, adding to the onsen's unique charm. With a free foot bath and communal bathhouse, it's easy for visitors to enjoy the hot springs, even if they're only there for the day. And don't forget to take a leisurely stroll by the nearby clear streams and waterfalls to enjoy nature while visiting these hot springs near Tokyo.
About Shima Onsen
Features Shima Onsen features sodium-calcium-chloride-sulfate hot spring waters. Of the 42 hot spring sources in the area, approximately 39 of them are natural springs.
Size of spa resort area In the hot springs town, there is a concentration of restaurants and souvenir shops for visitors to enjoy.
Getting there From Tokyo Station, visitors can take the Shima Onsen bus for approximately 3.5 hours to reach Shima Onsen, or take the Kusatsu Limited Express from JR Ueno Station to JR Nakanojo Station and transfer to a bus bound for Shima Onsen for about 3 hours to reach the final destination.
Spring qualities and benefits Bathing in the hot springs is said to be effective for gastrointestinal disease, neuralgia, skin disease, scratches, cuts, and atopic dermatitis. Drinking the hot spring water is said to be effective for gastrointestinal disease and increasing appetite.
Main hotels in the area Sekizenkan Kashotei Sanso, Shima-Onsen Toshimaya, Shima Onsen Kashiwaya Ryokan
Sekizenkan Kashotei Sanso 積善館 佳松亭・山荘 Address: Shima Ko 4236, Nakanojo, Gunma, 377-0601 View Map Nearest Station: Nakanojo Station (JR Agatsuma Line)
Shima-Onsen Toshimaya Address: Shima 3887, Nakanojo, Gunma, 377-0601 View Map Nearest Station: Nakanojo Station (JR Agatsuma Line)
Shima Onsen Kashiwaya Ryokan 四万温泉 柏屋旅館 Address: Shima 3829, Nakanojo, Gunma, 377-0601 View Map Nearest Station: Nakanojo Station (JR Agatsuma Line)
5. Nasu Onsen (Tochigi): A leading hot spring resort near Tokyo
Nasu Onsen Resort is a group of amazing hot springs situated in the area surrounding Mt. Chausu, the only active volcano in Tochigi Prefecture. The resort includes 11 different hot springs, with Nasu Onsen (also known as "Kanoyu") being the most well-known, having been discovered in 630 AD.
The area is also called "Nasu Jikkyu-yu" or "Nasu Eleven Hot Springs," and one of the hot springs within the Nasu Onsen Resort is Kitayu, which is known for its unique tengu masks and has even been featured in movies.
In addition to the hot springs, Mt. Chausu is known for its seasonal flowers and is an excellent hiking destination outside of the snowy season. For families, the area also offers many theme parks, such as Nasu Safari Park and Nangaku Ranch, making it a perfect spot for a day trip.
About Nasu Onsen
Features The source temperature of the hot springs ranges from 63 to 80 degrees Celsius, making them high-temperature hot springs. The most famous Nasu Onsen, Kanoyu, is a sulfur hot spring, while Omaru Onsen, located at an altitude of 1,300 meters, is a simple hot spring. The quality of the hot springs varies depending on the location of the hot spring resort.
Size of spa resort area If you're looking to dine out, there are plenty of restaurants near the hotels and theme parks. For souvenirs, you can find them at roadside stations or large commercial facilities.
Getting there From Tokyo Station, visitors can take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Nasu-Shiobara Station and then take a bus to Nasu Onsen for about 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Spring qualities and benefits Sulfur hot springs, such as Kanoyu, are believed to be effective for skin disease, women's health issues, gastrointestinal disease, and fatigue recovery. The effects may vary depending on the hot spring.
Main hotels in the area Jizaiso, Resort Hotel Laforet Nasu, Hotel Epinard Nasu
Jizaiso こころのおやど 自在荘 Address: Yumoto 206-98, Nasu, Tochigi, 325-0301 View Map Nearest Station: Kurodahara Station (JR Tohoku Main Line)
Resort Hotel Laforet Nasu リゾートホテル ラフォーレ那須 Address: Yumoto 206-959, Nasu, Tochigi, 325-0301 View Map Nearest Station: Kurodahara Station (JR Tohoku Main Line)
Hotel Epinard Nasu ホテルエピナール那須 Address: Takakuhei 1, Nasu, Tochigi, 325-0302 View Map Nearest Station: Takaku Station (JR Tohoku Main Line)
6. Kinugawa Onsen (Tochigi): Scenic hot spring resort near Tokyo particularly beautiful during the autumn foliage season
Kinugawa Onsen is a delightful hot spring resort nestled along the Kinugawa River in Tochigi Prefecture. Located in a mountainous hot spring town, visitors can unwind and take in the fresh air and serene atmosphere.
The Kinugawa River is famous for its rapids and rocky cliffs, making it an ideal spot for river rafting. And when combined with a hot spring experience, especially during the autumn foliage season when the area is particularly stunning, it's truly an unforgettable experience.
The area also offers a wealth of nearby attractions, including the Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Edo Wonderland, Tobu World Square, and the popular SL Taiju steam train that runs between Shimotsuma Station and Kinugawa Onsen Station. With so much to see and do, you'll never get bored in this amazing hot spring town.
About Kinugawa Onsen
Features The hot springs are odorless and tasteless, making them easy for children and the elderly to enter. The water is gentle on the skin and does not have a distinct flavor, making it easy to enjoy.
Size of spa resort area There are 28 lodging facilities that belong to the Kinugawa and Kusatsu Onsen Ryokan Cooperative Association, and souvenir shops and restaurants are clustered in the hot spring town near Kinugawa Onsen Station.
Getting there From JR Shinjuku Station, visitors can take the JR/Tobu through express train, or from Tobu Asakusa Station, they can take the Tobu Spacia train to Kinugawa Onsen Station, which takes about 2 hours.
Spring qualities and benefits Alkaline simple hot springs are believed to be effective for various health conditions such as neuralgia, stiff shoulders, fatigue recovery, and overall health improvement.
Main hotels in the area Tsuganoki, Monogusa no Yado Hanasenkyo, Ooedo-Onsen Monogatari Kinugawa Kanko Hotel
Monogusa no Yado Hanasenkyo ものぐさの宿 花千郷 Address: Kinugawa Onsen Taki 482-6, Nikko, Tochigi, 321-2526 View Map Nearest Station: Kinugawa-Onsen Station (Tobu Kinugawa Line), 18 minutes on foot
Ooedo-Onsen Monogatari Kinugawa Kanko Hotel 大江戸温泉物語 鬼怒川温泉 鬼怒川観光ホテル Address: 359-2 Kinugawa Onsentaki , Nikko, Tochigi, 321-2526 View Map Nearest Station: Kinugawa-Onsen Station (Tobu Kinugawa Line), 16 minutes on foot
7. Hakone Onsen (Kanagawa): Relax in a hot spring with Mt. Fuji views!
Hakone Onsen is a group of fantastic hot spring resorts located in the Hakone area of Kanagawa Prefecture. These 20 hot springs are the result of the thermal activity of the Hakone volcano. Two of the most famous hot springs are Hakone Yumoto, which is also a stop on the Odakyu Romancecar from Tokyo, and Ōwakudani within the national park.
One of the biggest draws of Hakone Onsen is the opportunity to soak in an outdoor bath while taking in the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. It's no wonder that this area is a popular hot spring destination within Japan, with the highest number of annual visitors.
With so much to explore and enjoy in this beautiful area, it's no surprise that Hakone Onsen is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and rejuvenating power of Japanese hot springs.
About Hakone Onsen
Features This is the largest hot spring resort in Kanagawa Prefecture, with a discharge rate of about 19,500 liters per minute. Due to the complex geological features of the hot spring source, the 20 hot spring resorts have varying spring qualities.
Size of spa resort area
Near the Hakone Yumoto Station, the gateway to the Hakone hot spring resort, there is a shopping street with a variety of restaurants and souvenir shops.
Getting there
From Odakyu Shinjuku Station, take the Odakyu Romancecar to Hakone Yumoto Station, which takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes.
Spring qualities and benefits
Sodium chloride springs can provide relief from ailments such as sensitivity to cold, stiff shoulders, and lower back pain at Hakone Yumoto Onsen, while other hot springs offer different types of benefits.
Main hotels in the area
Tsukino Yado Sara, Hotel Zagakukan, Hakone Yumoto Onsen Hotel Kajikaso
Tsukino Yado Sara 箱根湯本温泉 月の宿 紗ら Address: 588-1, Hakone, Kanagawa, 250-0311 View Map Nearest Station: Hakone-Yumoto Station (Hakone Tozan Railway), 11 minutes on foot
Hotel Zagakukan 坐樂閑 Address: Yumoto 642-1, Hakone, Kanagawa, 250-0311 View Map Nearest Station: Hakone-Yumoto Station (Hakone Tozan Railway), 7 minutes on foot
Hakone Yumoto Onsen Hotel Kajikaso 箱根湯本温泉 ホテル河鹿荘 Address: Yumoto 688, Hakone, Kanagawa, 250-0311 View Map Nearest Station: Hakone-Yumoto Station (Hakone Tozan Railway), 6 minutes on foot
8. Yugawara Onsen (Kanagawa): A therapeutic spring that has been beloved by cultural figures
Yugawara Onsen is a fantastic hot spring resort located in the southwest of Kanagawa Prefecture. With 109 hot springs, each with its own unique water quality, including chloride springs, simple springs, and sulfuric acid springs, it's a treasure trove of "medical treatment springs" that are believed to be good for healing and recuperation.
The water quality, combined with the opportunity to enjoy both the sea and mountain scenery, has attracted many cultural figures, such as painters and novelists, who visited for therapeutic purposes.
If you're looking for souvenirs, be sure to check out the citrus fruit cultivation in the nearby area. Many souvenirs featuring oranges are sold in the hot spring town, making it a great spot to pick up a unique and tasty memento.
Whether you're seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, or just a fun getaway from Tokyo, Yugawara Onsen is definitely worth checking out. With so many hot springs to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect one for you.
About Yugawara Onsen
Features The main spring quality, which is the saline spring, is said to have an excellent heat retention effect that prevents the body from getting cold. Some of the springs are known as "wound healing springs" and are reputed to be effective in recovering from bruises, wounds, and post-surgical recovery.
Size of spa resort area There are many souvenir shops and restaurants concentrated around Yugawara Station. Additionally, souvenirs can also be purchased at roadside stations and along the coast.
Getting there It takes about 34 minutes from Tokyo Station by the Shinkansen (Kodama).
Spring qualities and benefits This type of hot spring is characterized by its chloride and sulfate content, and is said to be effective for conditions such as poor circulation, bruises, and recovery after injuries or surgery.
Main hotels in the area Yugawara Retreat Goen no Mori, Yugawara Onsen Ryokan Uohan
Yugawara Retreat Goen no Mori 湯河原リトリート ご縁の杜 Address: Doi 5-4-6, Yugawara, Kanagawa, 259-0303 View Map Nearest Station: Yugawara Station (JR Tokaido Main Line / JR Ueno Tokyo Line), 5 minutes on foot
9. Atami Onsen (Shizuoka): A refreshing hot spring town facing the sea
Atami Onsen is a wonderful hot spring resort town located on the eastern edge of the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture. It's a fantastic spot to relax and enjoy the healing properties of the hot springs, making it a popular getaway from Tokyo.
One unique feature of Atami Onsen is the Atami Sun Beach, which is lined with palm trees and offers a tropical atmosphere. It's hard not to feel relaxed and refreshed here! Atami Onsen has a rich history that dates back to 713 when it was discovered. Over the years, many Japanese royalty, samurai warriors, and cultural figures built villas in the area.
Thanks to its warm climate, Atami experiences an early arrival of spring, and visitors can enjoy the plum blossoms and Atami cherry blossoms as early as late January. And for those who love fireworks, Atami is famous for its long-lasting fireworks festivals held from April to December. There's always something happening in this amazing hot spring town near Tokyo!
About Atami Onsen
Features
Atami boasts a total output of approximately 16,600 liters per minute and a large amount of hot water. The water is characterized by its lack of smell and colorless transparency. It is said that there are many sulfuric acid springs along the mountains and chloride springs along the coast.
Size of spa resort area
There are nearly 300 ryokans and hotels in the city of Atami. Souvenir shops and restaurants are located in the shopping district in front of Atami Station.
Getting there
It takes about 45 minutes by the Tokaido Shinkansen (Kodama) from Tokyo.
Spring qualities and benefits
Sulfate spring: effective for arteriosclerosis, cuts, burns, chronic skin diseases, etc.
Chloride spring: effective for cuts, burns, chronic skin diseases, chronic women's diseases, etc.
Main hotels in the area
Uminohana, Shin Kadoya, Fufu Atami
Uminohana 時間を旅する宿 海のはな Address: Shimotaga 37-9, Atami, Shizuoka, 413-0102 View Map Nearest Station: Ajiro Station (JR Ito Line / JR Ueno Tokyo Line), 15 minutes on foot
Shin Kadoya 新かどや Address: Koarashi 14-8, Atami, Shizuoka, 413-0029 View Map Nearest Station: Kinomiya Station (JR Ito Line / JR Ueno Tokyo Line), 11 minutes on foot
Fufu Atami ふふ 熱海 Address: Minaguchi-cho 11-48 , Atami, Shizuoka, 413-0016 View Map Nearest Station: Kinomiya Station (JR Ito Line / JR Ueno Tokyo Line), 5 minutes on foot
10. Chichibu Onsen (Saitama): Saitama's premier hot spring resort with stunning views
Chichibu is a wonderful destination located in the southwest part of Saitama Prefecture that's known for its seasonal scenic views, including Shibazakura (pink moss phlox) and breathtaking Ashigakubo-no-Hyochu ice columns, as well as its hot springs. What could be better than taking in breathtaking views while enjoying the healing powers of a hot spring?
Most of the hot springs in Chichibu are day-use facilities, making them perfect for visitors on a sightseeing trip. Plus, the alkaline hot springs are said to be great for the skin, leaving you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.
One onsen complex that you won't want to miss is "Matsuri-no-Yu," located in front of Seibu Chichibu Station. It's a unique place that not only features hot springs but also a food court and retail space. You'll get to experience the festive atmosphere of Chichibu's festivals while enjoying the hot springs. It's truly an unforgettable experience!
About Chichibu Onsen
Features
The water has a strong alkaline level of about pH 9-10, rich in hydrogen ions.
Size of spa resort area
The area around Chichibu Station is crowded with souvenir shops and restaurants, and there are also many restaurants in the nearby Nagatoro Town.
Getting there
It takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Seibu Ikebukuro Station.
Spring qualities and benefits
Sulfuric simple springs are said to be effective for neuralgia, fatigue recovery, chronic skin diseases, health promotion, diabetes, and beautiful skin (Manganoyu). However, it varies depending on the type of hot spring.
Main hotels in the area
NIPPONIA Chichibu Monzenmachi, KAMENOI HOTEL Nagatoro Yorii, Comfort stay Miyabi
KAMENOI HOTEL Nagatoro Yorii 亀の井ホテル 長瀞寄居 Address: Sueno 2267, Yorii, Saitama, 369-1205 View Map Nearest Station: Hagure Station (Chichibu Railway), 13 minutes on foot
Comfort stay Miyabi みやび Address: Kumaki 24-14-B, Chichibu, Saitama, 368-0032 View Map Nearest Station: Ohanabatake Station (Chichibu Railway), 8 minutes on foot
There are many fantastic onsen towns in the greater Tokyo region. That's right! You don't have to go far to experience the natural beauty and rejuvenating power of Japanese hot springs. Gunma, Tochigi, and Kanagawa prefectures all have amazing hot springs that are easily accessible by train or bus from Tokyo.
One of the best things about these hot springs is the opportunity to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in the beautiful natural scenery. It's a great way to recharge and refresh yourself!
Note: The information in this article is current as of February 2023. Please check official websites and other sources for the latest information.
Via Live Japan
