When you travel to Japan, one of the most relaxing and cultural experiences you can have is to relax in an onsen. Onsens are natural hot springs where Japanese people traditionally bathe to relax and rejuvenate. This practice dates back centuries, and is deeply rooted in Japanese culture.
Onsens can be found all over the country, but some of the most popular destinations for onsens are in mountainous areas such as Hakone, Kusatsu, or Beppu. Onsens can be located in hotels, ryokans (traditional Japanese inns), or even public facilities.
The onsen experience begins with finding a suitable location. Onsen are often located in secluded areas, surrounded by nature, offering a totally relaxing experience. When you arrive at the onsen, you will first have to undress completely before you can enter the hot water. The baths are usually segregated by gender, although some establishments offer mixed gender baths.
It is important to note that the Japanese attach great importance to cleanliness, so it is imperative to wash yourself completely before entering an onsen. Baths are also often equipped with small stools and buckets to facilitate showering before entering the hot water.
Once you are clean, you can enter the hot water. Onsens have varying temperatures, and some hot springs can be hot enough to burn the skin. It is important to check the temperature before bathing. Onsens are also known for their healing properties, as hot water often contains minerals such as sulfur, calcium and sodium.
In addition to the healing properties of water, onsens also offer a relaxing experience for the mind. The peaceful and natural environments where onsens are located allow visitors to completely relax and recharge their batteries. Onsens are also a place of socialization for Japanese people, who often go there with friends or colleagues to chat and relax together.
Ultimately, the onsen experience is both a physical and mental journey. In addition to relaxing in the hot water, visitors can enjoy nature and connect with Japanese culture. Whether you are traveling alone or with friends, an onsen is an unforgettable experience on your trip to Japan.
In addition to traditional onsens, there are also modern variations, such as city onsen, which tend to be more luxurious and expensive than traditional onsens. City onsen often offer facilities such as saunas, whirlpools, spas and massages.
Another variation of modern onsen is the open-air onsen, which offers a breathtaking view of natural landscapes, such as mountains and rivers. Open-air onsens are often located in remote areas and are most popular in the winter when visitors can bathe in the warm water while admiring the snow.
The onsen experience can be enhanced by the use of yukata, a kind of light and comfortable kimono that visitors often wear to move around onsens and inns. The yukata can be rented or included in the cost of the inn or onsen.
Onsens are an integral part of Japanese culture, and it is important for visitors to respect the customs and rules of conduct, such as not wearing bathing suits in the baths and washing thoroughly before bathing. Visitors should also be respectful of others and the natural environment.
Here are some famous onsens in Japan:
- Kusatsu Onsen: Located in Gunma Prefecture, Kusatsu Onsen is one of the most popular onsens in Japan. It is known for its hot water rich in minerals, which is supposed to have healing properties.
- Gero Onsen: Located in the prefecture of Gifu, Gero Onsen is another famous onsen of Japan. It is known for its waters rich in metaboric acid, which are supposed to have therapeutic effects for the skin.
- Hakone Onsen: Located in the Hakone region, near Tokyo, Hakone Onsen is famous for its open-air baths with stunning views of Mount Fuji. There are several inns and onsens in this area, offering a unique swimming experience.
- Beppu Onsen: Located in Oita Prefecture, Beppu Onsen is a group of over 2,000 Onsen, making it one of the largest onsen complexes in Japan. Beppu onsens are known for their variety of baths, including mud baths and steam baths.
- Noboribetsu Onsen: Located in Hokkaido Prefecture, Noboribetsu Onsen is famous for its milky hot spring baths. There are several types of baths, including a sulfur bath, an iron bath and a salt bath.
