Japan is blessed with countless onsen (hot springs) thanks to its unique position on the Pacific Ring of Fire. Among them, we introduce three that have stood out for their long history and are loved by locals.
The ‘Three Great Hot Springs of Japan’ are Arima Onsen in Hyogo Prefecture, Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma Prefecture, and Gero Onsen in Gifu Prefecture.
The origin of the ‘three great hot springs’ is found in the Muromachi period (1336–1573), when the monk Banri Shukyu mentioned them in his writings, and later in the Edo period (1603–1867), the Confucian scholar Hayashi Razan praised them for their historical value and healing powers.
Be it winter or spring, all three onsens are worth visiting year-round. Don’t miss the chance to experience how different the waters feel from place to place.
Arima Onsen is famous for its two spring waters: the reddish-brown Kinsen, rich in iron and salt for boosting circulation, and Ginsen—the clear, carbonic water with very minute and safe levels of radium that is said to ease muscle pain and strengthen the immune system.
Gero Onsen, known as the “hot spring for beauty,” features colorless, odorless, smooth-textured water that is highly alkaline. This gives you smooth, soft skin while improving skin dullness and boosting metabolism.
Kusatsu Onsen boasts Japan’s largest natural hot spring output, with highly acidic, sulfur-rich waters renowned for their antibacterial effects and relief of muscle aches, neuralgia, and skin troubles.
At Arima Onsen, enjoy scenic autumn views at Zuihōji Park or ride the Rokko-Arima Ropeway. Also, after an onsen bath, enjoy a fresh local taste of Arima Cider — a retro, locally made soda originally made from the town’s carbonated spring water.
At Gero Onsen, buy a Yumeguri Ticket (¥1,300) to enjoy up to three different onsens at member inns around town. It’s perfect for onsen-hopping and makes a nice souvenir to keep after your trip.
At Kusatsu Onsen, don’t miss the unique Yumomi ceremony at Netsu no Yu building, where women in traditional dress cool the steaming spring water using giant wooden paddles while singing Japanese folk songs. Shows are held twice daily – buy your ticket and arrive 15 minutes early for the best seats.
To make your visit to these Japanese onsens even more memorable, stay in a nearby traditional Japanese-style machiya accommodation! Below are traditional boutique hotels and private holiday homes in Japan.
MACHIYA INNS & HOTELS offers a collection of beautifully renovated traditional Japanese accommodations in Kyoto, Kanazawa, and Takayama. Each property combines the charm of historic machiya architecture with modern amenities, providing an authentic and comfortable experience.
Choose from private holiday house rentals or boutique hotel rooms, each thoughtfully designed to preserve the unique character of traditional Japanese design while meeting the needs of today’s travelers. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples in Kyoto, sampling fresh seafood in Kanazawa, or wandering the quaint streets of Takayama, our accommodations provide the perfect home base for your adventures.
Discover your ideal stay and start planning your unforgettable journey to Japan. Visit the MACHIYA INNS & HOTELS official website to learn more and book your stay today!
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