♨️ Hot springs in Hokkaido ~ Winter is in full swing
Hokkaido’s hot spring resorts are most popular in winter. Noboribetsu Onsen, Toyako Onsen, and Jozankei Onsen have beautiful contrasts between snowy scenery and steam. The temperature may drop below freezing, but soaking in a hot spring will warm you from the core. The peak season is from December to March, and it is recommended to combine it with skiing or snow activities.
🌸 Hot springs in Tohoku and Kanto ~ From spring to autumn
You can enjoy hot springs in the Kanto area throughout the year, such as Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma), Hakone Onsen (Kanagawa), and Nasu Onsen (Tochigi). In spring you can enjoy an open-air bath surrounded by fresh greenery, in summer you can enjoy hot springs on the plateau as a summer retreat, and in autumn you can enjoy the combination of autumn leaves and hot springs. The temperature is moderate, so it is also recommended for beginners.
🏔️ Hot springs in Chubu and Hokuriku ~ Seasons
The Chubu region is dotted with historical hot springs such as Gero Onsen (Gifu), Kaga Onsenkyo (Ishikawa), and Shirahone Onsen (Nagano). The view is particularly spectacular during the fall foliage season, where you can enjoy hot springs and the foliage at the same time. In winter, you can enjoy winter delicacies such as crab at the hot spring resort on the Sea of Japan side.
🌊 Hot springs in Kyushu and Okinawa – warm climate
Kyushu is one of Japan’s leading hot spring areas, including Beppu Onsen (Oita), Yufuin Onsen (Oita), and Kurokawa Onsen (Kumamoto). The climate is warm throughout the year, so you can spend a comfortable time even in winter. Yufuin is a hot spring area that is especially popular among women, and there are plenty of stylish cafes and miscellaneous goods stores. Okinawa also has resort hot springs where you can enjoy bathing while looking out at the ocean.