There’s no better way to thaw out in the dead of winter than with a steamy hot spring bath. For many in Japan, onsen (hot springs) baths are a daily ritual. These steamy soaks are synonymous with healing both physically and mentally thanks to the mineral rich volcanic waters.
These experiences are typically enjoyed in traditional ryokans (Japanese inns), but can also be found in a variety of settings including community bathhouses, private en-suite soaking tubs in modern hotels and even in a “bath” of hot-spring-heated sand.
If you’re curious about dipping your toes into the steamy spring waters, take a trip to these onsens for a versatile lineup of experiences across Japan.
Gora Kadan
The famous hot spring town of Hakone roughly two hours southwest of Tokyo by train plays host to several public and private onsen opportunities, but our top pick is Gora Kadan.
Once the summer home of the imperial family, this traditional ryokan checks all the boxes: lovely gardens, elaborate kaiseki (multi-course) Japanese meals, a modern spa and communal onsens (his and hers) that overlook the mountainous landscapes of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.
If you’re not keen on sharing, several of the minimalist rooms include their own private open-air baths, as well as Japanese tatami mat bedding to round out the authentic experience.
Gora Kadan - Best Luxury Hotels and Ryokans in Kyoto, JAPAN
