10 Magical Onsen Towns Near Tokyo for the Ultimate Hot Springs Getaway
- Written by: Ran Tanaka
Just outside Tokyo, you'll find a selection of magical onsen towns offering the ultimate hot springs getaway. These charming retreats, rich with soothing, mineral-infused waters, are easily accessible by train or bus, making them the ideal escape from the city.
We’ve handpicked ten enchanting onsen towns near Tokyo, each with its own unique atmosphere and rejuvenating experience. Whether you're seeking relaxation or a refreshing winter escape, these destinations promise the perfect blend of tranquility and tradition.
1. Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma): Famous as one of Japan's Top Three hot springs areas
Kusatsu Onsen is a picturesque onsen town near Tokyo, nestled in the Agatsuma district of Gunma Prefecture. Famous for its iconic Yubatake—a hot water field that serves as the town’s centerpiece—Kusatsu Onsen adjusts its naturally hot spring water for bathing, creating a unique visual and cultural experience.
Widely regarded as one of Japan's top three hot spring destinations, alongside Arima Onsen in Hyogo and Gero Onsen in Gifu, Kusatsu offers visitors more than just relaxation. The water here is extremely hot, averaging around 55 degrees Celsius, and is renowned for its healing properties.
Visitors can also purchase Yunohana, mineral-rich sediment extracted from the Yubatake, as a bathing agent to enjoy at home. Don’t miss the traditional yumomi performance, where the hot water is stirred to cool it down, or the stunning nighttime illumination of the Yubatake—a must-see for any onsen lover.
- 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.
- Scale of the Onsen Area
- Kusatsu Onsen is home to over 100 hotels and traditional inns. Around the Yubatake (hot spring field), there is a concentration of souvenir shops and restaurants.
- Getting there
- From JR Ueno Station, take the "Kusatsu Limited Express" to Naganohara-Kusatsuguchi Station. From there, take the JR bus to "Kusatsu." The total travel time is about 3 hours.
- Hot Spring Quality & Benefits
- The hot springs are known to help with cuts, burns, neuralgia, bruises, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Recommended Ryokan in Kusatsu Onsen
2. Ikaho Onsen (Gunma): A town of stone steps and hot spring manju sweets
Ikaho Onsen is a charming onsen town near Tokyo, situated in Gunma Prefecture, with a history that dates back over 600 years. Known for its ancient hot springs, this lively town has been a popular destination for centuries. The centerpiece of Ikaho is its famous stone staircase, made up of 365 steps. As you climb, you'll pass by a variety of souvenir shops, restaurants, and game centers, creating a fun and vibrant atmosphere.
A visit to Ikaho Onsen wouldn’t be complete without trying the local specialty, Yunohana Manju. This beloved treat, often associated with Japan's hot spring towns, is said to have originated here. Its distinctive brown exterior and unforgettable taste make it a must-try for visitors. Don’t forget to pick some up as a souvenir before you leave!
- 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.
- Scale of the Onsen 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
- From JR Ueno Station, take the "Kusatsu Limited Express" to Shibukawa Station, which takes about 1 hour and 30-40 minutes.
- Hot Spring Quality & Benefits
- Golden Water: Helps with neuralgia, skin diseases, and high blood pressure.
Silver Water: Aids in recovery from illness, relieves fatigue, and promotes overall health
Recommended Ryokan in Ikaho Onsen
3. Manza Onsen (Gunma): Hot springs located in a national park near a popular ski resort
Manza Onsen is a charming hot spring destination located in Tsumagoi Village, Agatsuma District, Gunma Prefecture, within the Joshinetsu Kogen National Park, making it one of the notable onsen towns near Tokyo. With a rich history dating back 400 years, it has been a popular spot for many seeking the healing properties of its hot springs.
Whether you visit in spring to enjoy the fresh greenery or in fall to admire the stunning autumn leaves, Manza Onsen offers picturesque natural scenery year-round. At an altitude of 1,800 meters, it's a popular cool summer retreat to escape the heat. During winter, it's recommended to combine your hot spring visit with a trip to the nearby Manza Onsen Ski Resort for some fun in the snow. Plus, its convenient location near Karuizawa provides plenty of shopping opportunities.
- 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.
- Scale of the Onsen 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
- From Tokyo, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Karuizawa Station, then take a bus to Manza Onsen. The total travel time is approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.
- Hot Spring Quality & Benefits
- The sulfur springs are known to help with respiratory diseases, gastrointestinal issues, rheumatism, and skin conditions.
Recommended Ryokan in Manza Onsen
4. Shima Onsen (Gunma): These hot springs are believed to have healing powers
Shima Onsen is a captivating hot spring destination with a fascinating legend behind its name. The Chinese characters "四万" mean "40,000," and according to the legend, bathing in these hot springs can cure all 40,000 known illnesses. Who wouldn't want to give that a try?
In addition to the beautifying effects of the hot spring water, Shima Onsen features several drinking fountains 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.
- Features
- Shima Onsen features sodium-calcium chloride and sulfate springs. Out of 42 spring sources, around 39 are naturally occurring.
- Scale of the Onsen Area
- The hot spring town has a variety of restaurants and souvenir shops gathered within the area.
- Getting there
- From Tokyo Station, take the Shima Onsen Expressway Bus to Shima Onsen, which takes about 3.5 hours. Alternatively, from JR Ueno Station, take the "Kusatsu Limited Express" to JR Nakanojo Station, then transfer to a bus heading to Shima Onsen. The total travel time is approximately 3 hours.
- Hot Spring Quality & 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.
Recommended Ryokan in Shima Onsen
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. This resort includes 11 different hot springs, collectively known as "Nasu Jikkyu-yu" or "Nasu Eleven Hot Springs." The most well-known hot spring, Nasu Onsen (also known as "Kanoyu"), was discovered in 630 AD, making it a historically significant destination among onsen towns near Tokyo.
One of the notable hot springs within the Nasu Onsen Resort is Kitayu, distinguished by its unique tengu masks and featured in various movies. Besides the therapeutic hot springs, Mt. Chausu offers beautiful seasonal flowers and is an excellent hiking destination outside the snowy season.
For families, the area also boasts several theme parks, such as Nasu Safari Park and Nangaku Ranch, making it a perfect spot for a day trip. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Nasu Onsen Resort provides a well-rounded experience close to Tokyo.
- Features
- The hot spring source temperature ranges from 63 to 80°C (145 to 176°F). Nasu Onsen has a rich history, with the most famous spring, Shika-no-Yu, offering sulfur springs, while Omaru Onsen, located at an altitude of 1,300 meters, provides simple springs. The spring quality varies depending on the location.
- Scale of the Onsen Area
- For dining, visit hotels or areas near theme parks. Souvenirs can be purchased at roadside stations or large commercial facilities.
- Getting there
- From Tokyo Station, take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Nasushiobara Station, then transfer to a bus to Nasu Onsen. The total travel time is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.
- Hot Spring Quality & Benefits
- Sulfur Springs: Effective for skin diseases, gynecological disorders, gastrointestinal issues, and fatigue recovery (such as at Shika-no-Yu). Other benefits vary depending on the hot spring.
Recommended Hotels & Ryokan in Nasu Onsen
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.
- Features
- The water is tasteless, odorless, and gentle on the skin, making it easy for everyone to enjoy, from children to the elderly.
- Scale of the Onsen Area
- There are 28 lodging facilities affiliated with the Kinugawa-Kawaji Onsen Ryokan Association. Souvenir shops and restaurants are concentrated in the hot spring town near Kinugawa Onsen Station.
Recommended Ryokan in Kinugawa Onsen
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.
- Features
- Hakone is the largest hot spring area in Kanagawa Prefecture, with a hot spring output of around 19,500 liters per minute. Due to the complex geology of the area, each of the 20 hot spring locations in Hakone has a different water quality.
- Scale of the Onsen Area
- Around Hakone-Yumoto Station, the gateway to Hakone Onsen, there is a bustling shopping street lined with restaurants and souvenir shops.
- Getting there
- From Odakyu Shinjuku Station, take the Odakyu Romancecar to Hakone-Yumoto Station, which takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes.
- Spring qualities and benefits
- Chloride Springs: Known to help with poor circulation, shoulder stiffness, and lower back pain relief (as at Hakone Yumoto Onsen). The benefits vary depending on the specific hot spring location.
Recommended Ryokan in Hakone Onsen
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.
- Features
- The primary spring type is saline, known for its excellent heat retention, helping the body stay warm longer. Some springs are referred to as "healing springs" due to their reputation for aiding the recovery of bruises, wounds, and post-surgery healing.
- Scale of the Onsen Area
- Souvenir shops and restaurants are concentrated around Yugawara Station. You can also buy souvenirs at roadside stations and along the coast.
- Hot Spring Quality & Benefits
- It takes about 34 minutes from Tokyo Station by the Shinkansen (Kodama).
- Spring qualities and benefits
- Chloride and Sulfate Springs: Known to help with poor circulation, bruises, wound recovery, and post-surgery healing.
Recommended Ryokan in Yugawara Onsen
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!
- Features
- Atami boasts a total hot spring output of about 16,600 liters per minute. The water is known for being odorless, colorless, and transparent. In the mountainous areas, sulfate springs are common, while chloride springs are more prevalent along the coast.
- Scale of the Onsen 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.
- Hot Spring Quality & Benefits
- Sulfate Springs: Effective for arteriosclerosis, cuts, burns, and chronic skin conditions.
Chloride Springs: Known to aid in the healing of cuts, burns, chronic skin diseases, and chronic gynecological conditions.
Recommended Ryokan in Atami Onsen
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!
- Scale of the Onsen Area
- Around Chichibu Station, there are numerous souvenir shops and restaurants. Nearby Nagatoro Town also has many dining options.
- Getting there
- From Seibu Ikebukuro Station, the journey to Chichibu takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Recommended Accommodations in Chichibu Onsen
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!
Ran Tanaka is a Japanese writer and travel agency employee. After working as an editor for a major website, she switched to a travel company. She specializes in travel and food-related genres, and she has covered all 47 prefectures in Japan. She regularly travels to report on hidden gems, scenic spots, and the kinds of travel tips that only a travel industry insider can know.
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*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.
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