YukoYuko (ゆこゆこ) is a Japanese onsen and travel magazine whose main readership is older adults, offering curated information on trips and hot spring accommodations. This ranking is based on surveys of its mature members and reflects hot spring destinations where members actually stayed using YukoYuko’s booking services.

Covering destinations across Japan, the ranking also includes reader comments explaining why each onsen was chosen, making it easier to understand what sets each spot apart and why it is so popular. In addition to the top three, the article also introduces other ranked destinations, making it a must-read for hot spring fans.

Hot springs can be found all across Japan, but these three destinations stood out in a nationwide survey. What makes them so appealing to older travelers? Let’s take a closer look.

Yufuin is especially popular with women aged 50 and over thanks to its refined, relaxed townscape, yet it also appeals to travelers of all ages. The area’s calm atmosphere makes it an easy and comfortable destination for a slower-paced trip.

The main spring type here is simple alkaline hot spring water, which is clear, gentle on the skin, and lightly scented. Often called a “beauty bath,” it leaves skin feeling smooth and is known to help ease fatigue, joint pain, and nerve pain, making it particularly appealing for older travelers seeking comfort and relaxation.

Compared with the lively energy of nearby Beppu Onsen, Yufuin offers a quieter, more artistic mood. The streets blend nostalgic Japanese scenery with stylish cafes and craft shops, while many ryokan boast views of majestic Mount Yufu. With soothing baths, scenic surroundings, and the chance to enjoy local specialties like Bungo beef, Yufuin is an ideal destination for a truly restorative getaway.

Other respondents also described Yufuin as having a wonderful atmosphere, being ideal for sightseeing, and full of charm. Rather than noise and crowds, the area is defined by tasteful small shops and beautiful natural scenery that changes with the seasons.

Yufuin Onsen Nearby Highlights
Lake Kinrin, Mount Yufu, Yunotsubo Street, Yufuin Floral Village

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Well known among international travelers, Hakone Onsen is also a favorite among Japan’s mature travelers. Its close proximity to Tokyo, excellent transport access, and rich mix of museums and historic sites helped it secure second place nationwide.

Hakone offers a wide variety of spring waters, from clear and gentle simple hot springs to milky white sulfur springs. Sulfur springs are known to help with chronic skin conditions, improve circulation and metabolism, and ease joint pain, making them especially appealing for older visitors looking to unwind.

Lively and packed with attractions, Hakone is easy to reach from Tokyo and pairs perfectly with the convenient Hakone Free Pass. It works well as a day trip or a relaxed one-night stay, and no visit is complete without trying the famous black eggs at Owakudani.

Survey results also show that many respondents prefer visiting Hakone with family or friends and appreciate it as a well-known destination with a strong sense of history.

Hakone Onsen Nearby Highlights
Owakudani, Lake Ashi, Hakone Glass no Mori Museum, Hakone Shrine

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Ranked third among Japan’s mature travelers, Beppu Onsen is located in the same prefecture as No. 1 Yufuin, making Oita a clear favorite for onsen lovers.

Beppu boasts the largest volume of hot spring water in Japan, with plumes of steam rising throughout the town and creating a powerful, almost primal atmosphere. The area is made up of eight distinct hot spring districts known collectively as the “Beppu Eight Hells” (Beppu Hatto), each with its own spring qualities and character. Areas around Beppu Station offer the easiest access, while districts such as Kannawa Onsen and Kankaiji Onsen provide different bathing experiences and settings.

A visit to Beppu would not be complete without the famous Hells Tour, or Jigoku Meguri. Despite the dramatic name, these are seven geothermal hot springs too hot for bathing and admired instead for their natural spectacle. Umi Jigoku features striking cobalt-blue water at temperatures reaching 98°C (208°F), while Blood Pond Hell glows a deep red due to iron oxide, showcasing the raw forces of nature.

Be sure to sample Beppu’s local specialties as well, including Beppu cold noodles and Jigoku-steamed pudding, both unique treats that add to the area’s appeal.

Beppu Onsen Nearby Highlights
Myoban Onsen Yunohira, Beppu Ropeway, Takegawara Onsen, Oita Fragrance Museum

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Beyond the top three, many other well-known onsen destinations across Japan also made the list. Here are the rankings from No. 4 to No. 10, showcasing the diverse appeal of hot spring resorts in different regions.

If any of these onsen destinations caught your interest, LIVE JAPAN also has related articles you can explore. Use them as inspiration to plan an onsen trip that suits your travel style and pace.

Ranking data source: Onsen travel magazine “YukoYuko” via PR Times