Guide to Japan onsen travel

We know Singaporeans love going to Japan for vacation. If you’ve ever dreamed of soaking in a hot spring or onsen while pretending you’re in a serene Japanese ryokan, you’re not alone.

Onsens, Japan’s natural hot springs, aren’t just for relaxation; they’re practically a cultural experience, offering everything from therapeutic benefits to a great excuse to let your mind wander while you sit in glorified boiling water. Whether you’re opting for the traditional full experience in a ryokan or just day-tripping to a local onsen, there’s something about those steamy waters that make you feel like you’re doing something good for your body—even if all you’re really doing is sitting there. From health benefits like improved circulation to the variety of onsens—from public baths to luxurious resort-style ones—there’s something to suit every mood, day or night. So, are there any onsens in Singapore that can compare to Japan’s? Well, let’s just say we might not have Mount Fuji nearby, but there’s always a chance to dip your toes into a little hot water.

What are onsens?

Onsens are natural hot springs found in Japan, created by geothermal activity that heats the water, making it perfect for bathing. These springs are rich in minerals like sulfur, sodium, and calcium, which are believed to have therapeutic effects on the body, helping with ailments like joint pain, skin conditions, and stress. People flock to onsens not just for the healing properties of the water but for the whole experience—taking time to relax, unwind, and connect with nature in a serene environment. Onsens can be found in both public baths and private settings, often nestled in scenic areas like mountains or forests, providing a peaceful escape. Whether you’re soaking in a rustic outdoor bath or indulging in a luxurious resort-style onsen, the practice is deeply woven into Japanese culture.

What are ryokans?

Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns that offer a unique and immersive cultural experience. Staying in a ryokan is like stepping back in time, where you get to enjoy tatami mat floors, sliding paper doors, and futon beds laid out for you at night. The real draw, though, is the hospitality—often, ryokans include kaiseki meals (a multi-course feast) and access to private onsens, making it an all-in-one retreat. These inns are located in scenic areas, sometimes close to onsens, giving you the perfect mix of relaxation and tradition. It’s the ultimate way to experience Japan’s famous blend of simplicity and elegance, with a touch of “you’ll never want to leave” comfort.

History of ryokans and onsens

Ryokans and onsens have deep roots in Japanese history, both playing crucial roles in the country’s cultural and social fabric. Ryokans date back to the 8th century during the Nara period, originally serving as resting spots for travelers along Japan’s ancient roads. Over time, these inns evolved into luxurious retreats, offering not only a place to stay but a way to experience traditional Japanese customs, food, and hospitality. On the other hand, onsens have been used for thousands of years, with their therapeutic properties first recognized as early as the 8th century as well. They became especially popular during the Edo period (1603-1868) when people began to frequent them for both health reasons and relaxation. Together, ryokans and onsens have become symbols of Japanese culture, offering both locals and tourists a way to unwind, enjoy nature, and connect with centuries-old traditions.

Why do people like going to onsens?

• Relaxation – The warm, mineral-rich waters soothe sore muscles and ease tension, offering a calming escape from daily stress. Onsen water temperatures typically range from 38°C to 42°C (100°F to 108°F), providing the perfect balance between comfort and therapeutic warmth.
• Health Benefits – Onsen waters are rich in minerals like sulfur, sodium chloride, and calcium, which are believed to help with a variety of health conditions. Regular soaking can improve blood circulation, alleviate muscle and joint pain, and promote detoxification. Sulfur-rich baths, for instance, are known for their skin-healing properties and can help treat conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
• Nature Immersion – Many onsens are located in scenic areas, allowing bathers to enjoy natural beauty while unwinding. The calming environment is scientifically shown to lower stress hormone levels and promote a sense of overall well-being.
• Cultural Experience – The rituals involved in bathing at an onsen, such as thoroughly cleaning before soaking, offer a unique chance to immerse in Japanese tradition. The process itself encourages mindfulness, which has been linked to reduced anxiety and improved mental health.
• Self-Care – It’s a guilt-free excuse to relax and do nothing, all while feeling like you’re indulging in wellness and rejuvenation. Studies have shown that thermal baths can improve sleep quality and even boost immune function, making an onsen visit feel even more rewarding.

Risks of going to onsens / when should you not go to an onsen

While onsens offer a lot of benefits, there are some risks and situations where it’s best to avoid them:

• High-Temperature Sensitivity – If you’re sensitive to heat or have a condition like high blood pressure or heart problems, the hot water can be overwhelming and cause dizziness or fainting. It’s important to listen to your body and avoid prolonged soaking in very hot water.
• Pregnancy – Pregnant women should avoid onsens, especially those with very hot water, as the heat can raise body temperature and potentially harm the fetus. Some onsens have specific pools for expectant mothers, but it’s safest to consult a doctor before going.
• Open Wounds or Skin Infections – If you have open cuts, wounds, or active skin infections like rashes or boils, it’s best to stay out of the onsen. The hot water can irritate wounds and potentially introduce bacteria.
• Alcohol Consumption – Going into an onsen after drinking alcohol can increase the risk of dehydration, overheating, or fainting due to the combination of alcohol and the hot water. It’s better to enjoy your soak when sober.
• Medical Conditions – If you have conditions like diabetes, respiratory issues, or circulatory problems, consult a doctor before entering an onsen, as hot water can exacerbate certain health concerns.

As a general rule, always remember to stay hydrated, limit your soaking time, and be mindful of how your body reacts to the heat. If you’re feeling unwell, it’s best to skip the onsen altogether.

Etiquettes of going to an onsen

1. Shower First – Always wash and thoroughly rinse your body before entering the onsen. There is generally a designated area with shower stations for this purpose, equipped with stools, handheld showerheads, and soap. This is not only for hygiene but also a sign of respect for other bathers.

2. Keep Your Hair Out of the Water – If you have long hair, tie it up to avoid it touching the water. Wet hair can transfer dirt and oils into the bath.

3. Avoid Loud Noise – Keep conversations quiet and respectful. Onsens are meant to be peaceful, relaxing spaces.

4. No Diving or Splashing – Don’t splash water or engage in any vigorous movement. Relaxing is key, not swimming or playing around.

5. Don’t Soak for Too Long – Limit your soak to around 15-20 minutes at a time. Too long can cause overheating and dehydration.

6. Towels Stay Outside – Bring a small towel for washing, but leave it outside the onsen when you soak. It’s considered impolite to bring it into the water.

7. No Photography – Keep your phone and camera away to maintain the peaceful, private nature of the onsen and respect the privacy of others.

8. Be Respectful of Others’ Space – Onsens can be communal, so be mindful of personal space and avoid crowding other bathers.

9. Avoid Using Soap in the Bath – Soap should only be used during your pre-bath shower, not in the onsen itself.

10. Rinse After Soaking – After enjoying the onsen, rinse off any residual minerals from your body. This helps cleanse your skin and closes your pores.

Why do they give you a little face towel in the onsen?

The little towel given at the onsen serves several practical and cultural purposes:

• Use to Wash Your Body in the Shower – You can use the towel to scrub and rinse your body during the pre-bath shower, helping with personal hygiene before entering the onsen. There is generally a designated area with shower stations for this purpose, equipped with stools, handheld showerheads, and soap. This ensures you’re thoroughly clean before soaking in the communal bath.
• Use to Wipe Sweat When in the Hot Bath – While soaking in the onsen, you can place the towel on your head or use it to wipe off sweat. This helps keep you comfortable while relaxing in the hot water.
• Use to Hide Your Body When Walking From One Bath to Another – The towel provides modesty as you move between bath areas. While you don’t bring it into the water, it’s a simple way to cover up while walking between different sections of the onsen.
• Use to Dry Off Before Stepping Back into the Changing Area – After your soak, the towel can be used to gently pat yourself dry before returning to the changing area, ensuring you don’t drip water onto the floor.

The towel is a small but essential part of the onsen experience, helping maintain hygiene, respect for others, and adding to the overall cultural tradition.

What type of onsens are there?

There are several types of onsens, each offering a unique experience:

• Indoor Onsens (内湯, Uchiyu) – These are located inside buildings and are typically more private. They’re great for colder weather or those who prefer a more controlled environment. Indoor onsens often have beautifully tiled baths and a serene atmosphere.
• Outdoor Onsens (露天風呂, Rotenburo) – These are the iconic onsens that offer natural settings, with views of mountains, forests, or rivers. Soaking in an outdoor onsen, especially in cooler weather, provides a soothing contrast to the heat of the water.
• Private Onsens (貸切風呂, Kashikiri-buro) – These are smaller, more intimate baths that can be reserved for individuals or couples. They provide the experience of an onsen without the crowd, making them perfect for those who prefer privacy.
• Public Onsens (大浴場, Daiyokujou) – These are communal baths, often in large, open spaces where you can enjoy the onsen with other bathers. Public onsens are the most traditional and common in Japan.
• Day Onsens (日帰り温泉, Higaeri Onsen) – These are onsens that you can visit during the day, often included as part of a larger resort or hotel experience. They’re perfect for a relaxing afternoon soak and are sometimes combined with lunch or other wellness activities.
• Night Onsens (夜の温泉, Yoru no Onsen) – Some onsens are particularly magical at night, with tranquil, dimly-lit environments that enhance the sense of peace. Nighttime onsens offer a calm, almost mystical experience, where you can soak under the stars or in a quiet, candlelit room.

Where are the onsens in Japan?

Onsens can be found all over Japan, from the snowy mountains of Hokkaido to the tropical islands of Okinawa. They’re such a significant part of Japanese culture that it’s impossible to avoid them—whether you’re in bustling cities or remote villages, you’ll likely come across one. Some famous onsen towns include:

• Hakone (箱根) – Just outside Tokyo, Hakone is a popular destination for those looking to enjoy onsens with views of Mount Fuji.
• Beppu (別府) – Located on the island of Kyushu, Beppu is famous for its numerous hot spring resorts, offering a wide variety of bathing experiences.
• Ibusuki (指宿) – Known for its unique sand baths, where you are buried in warm sand while soaking up the therapeutic heat.
• Kusatsu (草津) – One of Japan’s most famous onsen towns, Kusatsu in Gunma Prefecture is known for its high-quality sulfuric waters.
• Gero (下呂) – Gero Onsen, in Gifu Prefecture, is often ranked as one of Japan’s top three onsens, with a charming, traditional town vibe.

While these towns are well-known, onsens are found virtually everywhere across the country. Whether you’re near the city or in the countryside, there’s always an onsen waiting to provide relaxation and rejuvenation.

Top onsen towns in Japan near Tokyo

Here are some top onsens within two hours of Tokyo, offering a mix of convenience and relaxation, all accessible by shinkansen:

• Hakone (箱根) – Located about 1 hour from Tokyo, Hakone is the quintessential onsen destination near Tokyo, known for its beautiful views of Mount Fuji and numerous onsen resorts. You’ll find both indoor and outdoor onsens surrounded by lush nature. Accessible via the Odakyu Romancecar or the JR Tōkaidō Shinkansen.
• Izu (伊豆) – About 1.5 to 2 hours from Tokyo, Izu is famous for its seaside onsens and scenic hot spring resorts, where you can enjoy a soak with views of the ocean. Many ryokan (traditional inns) here also offer private onsen experiences. Reachable via the JR Tōkaidō Shinkansen to Atami, then transfer to local trains.
• Kamakura (鎌倉) – Just 1 hour from Tokyo, Kamakura is primarily known for its temples and beaches, but it also has a few hidden onsens. The hot springs here offer a quieter retreat compared to Hakone or Izu. Accessible by JR Yokosuka Line or Enoden.
• Atami (熱海) – Only about 40 minutes from Tokyo, Atami has been a famous onsen town since the Meiji era. You can enjoy baths overlooking the ocean or in peaceful garden settings. Easily accessible via the JR Tōkaidō Shinkansen.
• Minakami (水上) – About 1.5 to 2 hours from Tokyo, Minakami is a great choice for those looking for outdoor and indoor onsens, set amidst the mountains. It’s perfect for soaking after a day of hiking or skiing. Reachable via the JR Jōetsu Shinkansen to + Jōetsu-Myōkō Station, then transfer to a local train.
• Kusatsu (草津) – Located just over 2 hours from Tokyo, Kusatsu is renowned for its sulfur-rich waters and the famous Yubatake (hot water fields) in the center of town. Accessible via the JR Tōkaidō Shinkansen to Takasaki Station, followed by a bus or limited express train to Kusatsu.

Top 100 onsen ranking in Japan and the top 5 Ryokans

The Top 100 Ryokan Rankings in Japan is a prestigious list that typically features the finest traditional inns (ryokan) across the country, selected for their exceptional qualities such as service, ambiance, location, and cuisine. This ranking is often compiled by various travel magazines, online platforms, and luxury hospitality organizations like Rurubu, Jalan.net, and The Michelin Guide. However, the full list of Top 100 Ryokan can vary slightly depending on the publication, and there is no single official ranking recognized by all sources.

That being said, here’s a summary of top-ranked ryokan from widely acknowledged sources that often make the cut into these “Top 100” lists. These ryokan are regularly praised for their stunning locations, elegant architecture, luxurious service, and immersion into Japanese culture.

General Criteria for Ranking Top 100 Ryokan:

• Location – Scenic beauty, proximity to nature, and access to hot springs (onsen).
• Service – The quality of service, the traditional Japanese concept of omotenashi (hospitality), and guest satisfaction.
• Cuisine – The quality and presentation of kaiseki (multi-course) meals using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
• Architecture and Ambiance – Traditional Japanese architecture, including tatami mats, sliding doors, and design that harmonizes with the environment.
• Private and Public Baths – The variety and quality of onsen baths, including the presence of outdoor baths and private baths.

Notable Top 100 Ryokan in Japan

Here are some of the best-known and consistently ranked ryokan that often appear in various Top 100 lists:

• Gora Kadan (強羅花壇) – Hakone, Kanagawa Often seen as one of Japan’s top luxury ryokan, this former imperial family retreat features both public and private onsens, modern amenities, and gorgeous gardens.

• Ibusuki Hakusuikan (指宿白水館) – Ibusuki, Kagoshima Known for its unique sand baths and serene surroundings, Ibusuki Hakusuikan offers one of the most relaxing onsen experiences.

• Tawaraya Ryokan (俵屋) – Kyoto One of the oldest and most historic ryokan in Japan, Tawaraya is often regarded as the epitome of traditional Japanese hospitality, featuring luxurious rooms and gourmet kaiseki cuisine.

• Hoshinoya Kyoto (星のや京都) – Kyoto Set in the beautiful Arashiyama district, this ryokan blends traditional aesthetics with modern luxury, offering private baths and stunning river views.

• Kusatsu Hotel (草津ホテル) – Kusatsu, Gunma Kusatsu is a famous onsen town, and Kusatsu Hotel is regarded for its rich sulfuric waters and healing properties, alongside traditional ryokan comforts.

• Yama-no-yu (山の湯) – Gero, Gifu Located in the renowned Gero Onsen, this ryokan is famous for its scenic beauty, impeccable service, and both indoor and outdoor baths.

• Amanemu (アマネム) – Shima, Mie Prefecture A luxurious resort-style ryokan, known for its exclusive hot spring experiences, private onsen baths, and connection with nature in a beautiful coastal setting.

• Kyo-no-ya (京乃家) – Kyoto A traditional ryokan with a deep historical connection to Kyoto, offering guests a peaceful retreat with private baths, tea ceremonies, and gourmet dining.

• Yuzanso (湯山荘) – Hakone, Kanagawa Set in the famous hot spring town of Hakone, this ryokan offers luxury accommodations with spacious rooms, scenic baths, and outstanding Japanese cuisine.

• Ryokan Sumiya Kiho-an (旅館 すみや紀芳庵) – Kusatsu, Gunma Known for offering a traditional Japanese onsen experience, Ryokan Sumiya Kiho-an features high-end services, private baths, and seasonal delicacies.

Top 100 Ryokan Features

Beyond the most famous names listed, the Top 100 Ryokan Rankings also feature a range of establishments that offer unique experiences such as:

• Private baths (some even with views of Mt. Fuji or lush nature)
• Seasonal experiences such as autumn foliage viewing or cherry blossom season
• Innovative dining: Many top ryokan emphasize kaiseki-style meals, offering a refined multi-course feast based on local seasonal ingredients.
• Holistic wellness: Some of the ryokan cater to wellness tourism, offering traditional healing therapies, massages, and the benefits of sulfuric hot spring baths.

Finding the Full List

For the full and updated list of the top 100 ryokan, many travel guides, websites, and publications focus on luxury accommodations in Japan. Some places you can check for rankings or inspiration or to book include:

• Rurubu (a leading travel guide in Japan)
• Jalan.net (a major Japanese hotel and ryokan booking site)
• The Michelin Guide (select ryokan are awarded stars for their services)
• Travel agencies and blogs (such as Japan National Tourism Organization, Japan Guide, or local tour operators)

By consulting these sources, you’ll be able to find a wealth of recommendations, from historic, budget-friendly ryokan to the most lavish 5-star options.

Are there any onsens in Singapore?

There are a few onsen experiences in Singapore, though they are not quite as abundant as in Japan. While Singapore doesn’t have natural hot spring resorts like those in Japan, it does have on-the-rise spa centers and wellness facilities that offer similar experiences to what you would find in an onsen. Here are a few places to check out:

1. Yunomori Onsen & Spa

Location: Kallang Wave Mall This is probably the most authentic onsen experience in Singapore. Yunomori features Japanese-style hot spring baths, including indoor and outdoor baths, a dry sauna, and a mud bath. While the waters aren’t natural hot springs, they provide a very similar relaxation experience. Special Feature: Their wellness packages include spa treatments, massage, and relaxation therapies.

1. Samsara Wellness

Location: Queen Street Samsara Wellness offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese onsen and modern wellness services. You can enjoy private onsen experiences along with body treatments that replicate the onsen experience. Special Feature: They focus on combining natural treatments and relaxation with a Japanese-inspired aesthetic.

1. Aloha Sea Sports & Onsen

Location: East Coast Although this is primarily a water sports center, they have onsen-style bathing areas in their wellness facilities that allow you to unwind after physical activity. Special Feature: The onsen baths are designed to help soothe tired muscles and provide relaxation after outdoor activities.

1. Spa Infinity

Location: Orchard Road While not an onsen per se, Spa Infinity offers experiences inspired by Japanese onsen, featuring a hot bath and relaxation treatments. Special Feature: It focuses on combining high-tech wellness treatments with Japanese-inspired traditions.

Why Aren’t There More Onsens in Singapore?

Singapore’s geological structure doesn’t support natural hot springs, so man-made onsen-like experiences are the closest option for those craving a taste of Japanese culture and relaxation. However, these spa centers do a pretty good job of recreating the onsen ambiance, making them great places for those looking to unwind in a familiar bathhouse atmosphere. While the onsen culture in Singapore is still developing, these experiences are becoming more popular as people search for unique wellness opportunities in the city. Happy onsen!