What to Do in Onsen Japan and Best Onsen Towns to Visit
Japan is well-known for its onsen, natural hot springs that are a popular destination for both locals and tourists. What exactly can you do in an onsen in Japan? Well, plenty! You can soak in the hot water, relax and unwind, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. But there’s more to onsen than just bathing. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to the many things you can do in onsen Japan, from bathing to sightseeing to enjoying the local culture. We’ll also provide you with a list of the best onsen towns in Japan, so you can plan your perfect onsen getaway.
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What to Do in Japanese Onsen
- Soak in the hot water and relax. This is the most obvious thing to do in an onsen, but it’s also one of the most enjoyable. The hot water can help to soothe your muscles, relax your mind, and improve your circulation.
- Enjoy the beautiful scenery. Many onsen are located in beautiful natural settings, so you can enjoy the scenery while you soak. You might see mountains, forests, or even the ocean.
- Try different types of onsen. There are many different types of onsen in Japan, each with its own unique features. Some onsen are hot, while others are cold. Some are indoor, while others are outdoor. You can even find onsen that are mixed gender or private.
- Get a massage. Many onsen offer massage services, so you can relax and unwind even further.
- Have a meal. Many onsen have restaurants where you can enjoy a meal. The food is often local cuisine, so you can try something new.
Best Onsen Towns in Japan
- Takaragawa Onsen, Gunma
- Kusatsu Onsen, Gunma
- Nozawa Onsen, Nagano
- Hakone Onsen, Kanagawa
- Arima Onsen, Hyogo
FAQs About Onsen Japan
Q: What should I bring to an onsen?
A: You should bring a towel, soap, and shampoo. You may also want to bring a change of clothes.
Q: Can I wear a swimsuit in an onsen?
A: No, you cannot wear a swimsuit in an onsen. You must be naked.
Q: How long should I stay in an onsen?
A: You can stay in an onsen for as long as you like. However, it is generally recommended to stay for 15-20 minutes at a time.
Conclusion
Onsen are a great way to relax and unwind in Japan. There are many different things to do in an onsen, so you’re sure to find something you enjoy. And with so many great onsen towns to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay. So what are you waiting for? Book your onsen getaway today!
what to do in onsen japan
What is an Onsen and the Best Onsen Towns in Japan to Visit
An onsen is a natural hot spring in Japan. Onsen are popular destinations for both locals and tourists, and they offer a variety of benefits, including relaxation, stress relief, and improved circulation.
There are many different types of onsen in Japan, each with its own unique features. Some onsen are hot, while others are cold. Some are indoor, while others are outdoor. You can even find onsen that are mixed gender or private.
What to Do in an Onsen
The most popular thing to do in an onsen is to simply soak in the hot water and relax. However, there are many other things you can do in an onsen, including:
- Get a massage. Many onsen offer massage services, so you can relax and unwind even further.
- Have a meal. Many onsen have restaurants where you can enjoy a meal. The food is often local cuisine, so you can try something new.
- Enjoy the scenery. Many onsen are located in beautiful natural settings, so you can enjoy the scenery while you soak. You might see mountains, forests, or even the ocean.
Best Onsen Towns in Japan
There are many great onsen towns in Japan, but some of the most popular include:
- Dogo Onsen, Ehime – Dogo Onsen is one of the oldest and most famous onsen in Japan. It is located on the island of Shikoku and is known for its beautiful architecture and healing waters.
- Kusatsu Onsen, Gunma – Kusatsu Onsen is one of the most popular onsen in Japan. It is located in the mountains of Gunma Prefecture and is known for its hot and acidic waters.
- Nozawa Onsen, Nagano – Nozawa Onsen is a charming onsen town located in the Japanese Alps. It is known for its traditional atmosphere and its many different types of onsen.
- Hakone Onsen, Kanagawa – Hakone Onsen is a popular onsen town located just outside of Tokyo. It is known for its beautiful scenery and its many different types of onsen.
- Arima Onsen, Hyogo – Arima Onsen is a historic onsen town located in the Kansai region of Japan. It is known for its two types of onsen water, which are said to have different healing properties.
Conclusion
Onsen are a great way to relax and unwind in Japan. There are many different types of onsen to choose from, and you’re sure to find one that you enjoy. So what are you waiting for? Book your onsen getaway today!