Japan is famous for its hot springs, known as onsen.
They offer a unique way to relax and enjoy the natural beauty around you.
What makes these hot springs unusual are their unique features that you won’t find anywhere else.
Each offers something different and intriguing, from specific mineral compositions to unique locations.
Immerse yourself in Japan’s rich traditions while enjoying these fascinating onsen experiences.
- 1) Kusatsu Onsen – Yubatake
- 2) Owakudani Valley – Boiling Black Eggs
- 3) Beppu Hells – Blood Pond Hell
- 4) Shirahone Onsen – Milky White Water
- 5) Takaragawa Onsen – Outdoor Riverside Baths
- 6) Kurokawa Onsen – Cave Baths
- 7) Hakone Kowakien Yunessun – Wine Bath
- 8) Okuhida Hot Springs – Traditional Open-Air Baths
- 9) Dogo Onsen – Ancient Wooden Structure
- 10) Gero Onsen – Beauty Enhancing Waters
1) Kusatsu Onsen – Yubatake
Kusatsu Onsen is famous for its Yubatake, or “hot water field.”
Located in the town’s heart, it pumps out 32,300 litres of natural onsen water every minute.
The water here is very acidic, with a pH value of about 2.1, making it unique among hot springs in Japan.
You can’t bathe in the Yubatake itself, but it’s mesmerising to see.
The sight of hot steam rising and the emerald water flowing into reservoirs is genuinely captivating.
Don’t miss it when you’re in Kusatsu Onsen!
2) Owakudani Valley – Boiling Black Eggs
In Owakudani Valley, you can try the famous black eggs or “Kuro-Tamago”.
These eggs are boiled in the valley’s natural hot springs, which are rich in sulfur.
This unique process turns the eggshells black.
Locals believe eating a black egg can add seven years to your life.
You can buy them in packs of five for around ¥500.
Enjoy the stunning volcanic scenery while you snack on this curious delicacy!
3) Beppu Hells – Blood Pond Hell
The Blood Pond Hell in Beppu is a must-see if you’re into unique sights.
This hot spring stands out because of its deep red colour.
The water’s red hue comes from iron minerals.
It’s one of the eight famous “Hells” in Beppu.
Remember, like all the Hells, you can’t bathe here.
4) Shirahone Onsen – Milky White Water
Shirahone Onsen, nestled in the Northern Japan Alps, boasts unique milky white water.
The hot spring is rich in calcium and magnesium, giving it this unusual appearance.
You’re surrounded by stunning mountain scenery when you soak in these soothing waters.
5) Takaragawa Onsen – Outdoor Riverside Baths
Takaragawa Onsen in Gunma Prefecture offers some of Japan’s best riverside outdoor baths.
Imagine soaking in hot springs while listening to the river’s gentle flow and enjoying the beautiful mountain scenery.
You can easily access Takaragawa Onsen from Tokyo by train or bus.
The whole experience feels like an escape from the bustling city life.
6) Kurokawa Onsen – Cave Baths
Kurokawa Onsen is not just any hot spring; it’s known for its unique cave baths, which are carved into rock and create a cosy and natural atmosphere.
Imagine soaking in warm water surrounded by rock walls.
It’s a peaceful experience, away from the usual crowds.
The Kurokawa Onsen cave baths offer a unique experience you will remember.
7) Hakone Kowakien Yunessun – Wine Bath
At Hakone Kowakien Yunessun, you can soak in a bath filled with wine.
It’s like a dream come true for wine lovers.
The deep red water is exciting and believed to have antioxidant properties that can benefit your skin.
It has just enough wine in it to colour the water a slight shade of pink.
This bath is part of the unique hot spring experiences at Yunessun.
You can enjoy it whether you’re alone or with friends.
It’s an unforgettable way to relax and unwind in Hakone.
8) Okuhida Hot Springs – Traditional Open-Air Baths
Okuhida Hot Springs is the place to be if you love soaking in nature.
Located in Gifu, this spot is known for its rotemburo, or open-air baths, with stunning views of the Northern Japan Alps.
Each area’s five onsen towns have a unique charm and different hot spring water.
You can enjoy mixed-gender baths, split-gender baths, and even cave baths.
The water here is yellow due to its high sulphur content, making it a unique sight and experience.
Perfect for a day trip, baths like Koujin no Yu offer scenic river views.
Surrounded by nature, you’ll feel refreshed and relaxed.
9) Dogo Onsen – Ancient Wooden Structure
Dogo Onsen, in Ehime Prefecture, is famous for its ancient wooden structure.
The main building, Dogo Onsen Honkan, looks like something out of a historic Japanese tale.
Legend has it that a white heron discovered these springs over 1,000 years ago.
The site includes ornate baths and traditional wooden details.
You can almost feel the history as you walk through.
10) Gero Onsen – Beauty Enhancing Waters
Gero Onsen is famous for its “water of beauties” and is one of Japan’s top three onsens.
Known for its incredibly smooth waters, this hot spring town has attracted visitors for centuries.
Even Charlie Chaplin enjoyed these soothing waters.
The mineral-rich waters are said to help with smoother, more radiant skin.
