Lately, I’ve been thinking about my most unforgettable onsen experiences in Japan. Is there a place that still lingers in my mind? While I’ll always hold my very first onsen visit close to my heart, one that truly stands out is a breathtaking spot in Atami, where I went with my in-laws. The onsen was right by the sea, and at night, the water reflected the moonlight in the most magical way—it was one of those totonoeru moments, as the Japanese say. The combination of the steamy hot spring, the vast night sky, and the gentle sound of the waves felt deeply healing, both for my body and soul.

One thing I’ve always dreamed of but never quite managed is visiting an onsen on New Year’s Eve—soaking in the hot water while watching the snow quietly fall outside. Logistics aside, our family traditions make it tricky to arrange, and honestly, I’m not about to take on the challenge of convincing everyone to go, haha.

Thinking about all this got me wondering: Are there onsens in Japan that are must-visits before you die? I started digging through travel articles, magazines and personal blogs, and the list I found was long. So, instead of cramming everything into one post, I’m splitting this newsletter into two parts—there’s just too much to share, both in words and photos.

But what makes an onsen special enough to be considered a once-in-a-lifetime experience? Here are a few things that I think truly set some apart:

Onsens surrounded by stunning landscapes—whether nestled in the mountains, overlooking a lake, or right by the sea—offer more than just relaxation. The changing seasons can completely transform the atmosphere of a hot spring, making it feel like a different world each time you visit. A few that come to mind:

• Winter: Ginzan Onsen is like stepping into a fairytale. Snow-covered streets, historical buildings glowing under lantern light, and steam rising from the baths—it’s pure magic.

  

• Summer: In the thick, humid Japanese summer, Beppu Onsen is a fantastic choice. They host fireworks over Beppu Bay, and watching them while soaking in a hot spring is an experience unlike any other. A video taken from Instagram, shows the festival held in summer in Beppu.

  

• Spring: My personal favorite—cherry blossom season and Gero Onsen. I once visited Gero Onsen during peak sakura bloom, and it was like being inside a dream. Pink petals covered everything, blending with the steam from the baths. Many hot spring towns host seasonal events, but this moment, in particular, is one I’ll never forget.

  

This is something I started paying more attention to over time. Not all hot springs are the same—some are rich in minerals that benefit your skin, while others are known for relieving fatigue or even easing conditions like rheumatism. Choosing an onsen based on its therapeutic properties adds another layer of purpose to the visit.

There’s something nostalgic and romantic about stepping into an onsen that people have been bathing in for centuries. I love imagining what it must have been like 100 years ago—who sat in these waters, what conversations were had, what stories these places could tell. The architecture, the design, and even the carefully maintained Japanese gardens add a deeper sense of appreciation to the experience.

For a long time, accessibility was a key factor for me. Living in Tokyo and not owning a car, I naturally gravitated towards onsens that were easy to reach. But now, I’ve come to realize that some of the most extraordinary onsens are in remote areas, hidden away like treasures waiting to be found. While convenience is great, some places are so worth the journey, even if it takes a little extra effort to get there.

The research below comes from well-known magazines, travel blogs, and my personal visits. I’ve put together a list of 10 onsen that I believe are truly worth experiencing. And of course, there are countless more waiting to be discovered—it’s like a never-ending treasure hunt.

So, in this two-part newsletter, let’s dive into some of Japan’s most incredible hot springs. I hope you enjoy the journey!

Soneka’s moor hot spring is a rare gem, with tea-colored waters rich in organic plant minerals. Known for its skin-nourishing and detoxifying properties, it was once praised by the Ainu as a "medicinal bath" and officially recognized as a Hokkaido Heritage site in 2004.

The resort offers unique hot spring experiences, such as Inkara, an open-air bath with panoramic sky views, and Nitai, a secluded forest bath that blends into nature. Whether you seek deep relaxation or a moment of quiet in the wilderness, Soneka provides a truly rejuvenating retreat.

Wakka Style Onsen- which from Ainu means water.

"Inkara" is a hot spring in the ‘sky’. It is a blissful hot spring with a view, woven with the Ainu word "see".

A magnificent 30,000 hectares of nature that spreads out like a painting.
"Nup", which means "field" in Ainu, is a special place where the endless earth and sky blend together, as its name suggests.

A healing forest hot spring that blends with nature. Nitai means "forest" in the Ainu language. Nitai, located in a forest where silence has existed since ancient times, offers a one-of-a-kind hot spring experience that will bring harmony to your mind and body.

Nestled at the base of Grand Hirafu Ski Resort, Muwa Niseko is the ultimate ski-in, ski-out onsen getaway. With ensuite hot spring baths in every room and four infinity onsen on the seventh floor, guests can soak away their fatigue while taking in breathtaking views of Mount Yotei. The resort combines luxury with nature, offering spacious accommodations and fine dining options. Whether you're hitting the slopes or simply unwinding, Muwa is a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation(Photo Credit: Holiday Niseko)

A hot spring town with over 1,300 years of history, Kinosaki Onsen has preserved its traditional charm through wooden ryokan, narrow streets, and its famous seven public bathhouses. Visitors often wear yukata and wooden geta sandals as they stroll through the town, soaking in the nostalgic atmosphere. Each bathhouse offers a unique experience, from open-air stone baths to steamy indoor pools. Kinosaki is a place where time slows down, making it an ideal spot to relax and reconnect with Japan’s old-world charm. (Photo Credit: Visit Kinosaki Onsen)

One of Japan’s oldest hot springs, Dogo Onsen is believed to have inspired the bathhouse in Spirited Away. The main attraction is its historic bathhouse, built in 1894, which features beautifully crafted wooden architecture and a nostalgic atmosphere. Legend has it that the healing waters cured a deity’s illness, adding to its mystical reputation. The area surrounding Dogo Onsen is lively, with a bustling shopping arcade, traditional ryokan, and cultural sites, making it a must-visit for those interested in both relaxation and history. (Photo taken from Dogo Onsen Site and Japan Travel)

Tucked away in the mountains of Kyushu, Yufuin is a picturesque onsen town known for its peaceful countryside charm. With Mount Yufu as a backdrop, the town is dotted with ryokan, boutique cafés, and charming craft shops. The scenic Yunotsubo Street leads to the serene Lake Kinrin, where mist rises from the water in the early morning, creating a dreamlike setting. Less crowded than Beppu, Yufuin offers a more intimate and slow-paced onsen experience, perfect for those seeking tranquility in nature. (Photo Credit: Blog )

References:

• Casa Brutus - Travel

• Ryokan 100 - Top 100 Ranked Onsen Ryokan

• Note.com - Onsen Travel Guide

• Beginner Adult Violin - Must-Visit Onsen