Guide to Hidden Hot Springs and Remote Hot Springs in Japan
Instead of a convenient hotel near the station, head to a quiet inn deep in the mountains, in a snowy hot spring resort. The slight inconvenience of getting there makes the steam from the hot springs, the food, and the morning air all the more memorable. JEPS introduces secluded and hidden hot springs where "inconvenience becomes part of the travel experience," categorized by travel purpose.
Isn't the appeal of a secluded hot spring simply that it's far away?
What's important is the tranquility, the hot springs themselves, the nature, and the time spent at the accommodation that awaits you at your destination. It's in places you might miss if you choose based solely on accessibility that you'll often find truly memorable hot spring trips.
There is silence.
This place is perfect for those who want to relax in a quiet location, away from the hustle and bustle of tourist spots, where they can hear the sounds of the hot springs and the wind.
Enjoy the hot spring water
You can make the hot spring itself your main purpose, including the quality of the spring water, the amount of water, and the design of the bathhouse.
The seasons are intense
Snow, autumn leaves, lush green mountains, morning mist. The closer you are to nature, the stronger the impression of the seasons you'll leave.
Accommodation time is the main focus
This trip is perfect for those who want to check into their accommodation early and leisurely enjoy a bath, dinner, breakfast, and a stroll.
Reasons for taking a bath in a mountain hot spring
A mountain hot spring is an extraordinary experience, including the journey there. The moment you round a bend, the sounds of town fade away, and you see the lights of your inn, the atmosphere of your trip changes.
Reasons why small accommodations are becoming popular
It's not the convenience of a large facility that leaves a lasting impression, but rather the limited number of rooms, the intimate setting for meals, and the conversations with the staff. Some accommodations are chosen for the quality of the stay, rather than for their flashiness.
Why snow and hot springs are so popular
In winter, the cold outside makes the hot spring water all the more precious. A place where snowscapes, frost-covered trees, and rising steam all come together becomes a travel destination in itself.
Points to note when visiting secluded hot springs
I always check transportation, the frequency of services, shuttle services, winter road conditions, and check-in times. To enjoy the inconvenience, preparation is essential.
Hidden hot springs and quiet hot spring trip options
Rather than ranking the accommodations, I'll introduce them based on the kind of tranquility and seasonal experiences they offer.
Futamata Onsen Kashiwaya Ryokan
For those seeking tranquility in the mountains and the essence of natural hot springs, this resort offers five different types of hot springs and a rock bath with naturally flowing water, making it ideal for a trip focused on experiencing the hot springs themselves.
Forest Inn Yuseikan
This inn offers the atmosphere of a secluded mountain village. The combination of the forest, the garden, the open-air bath, and the starry sky allows you to fully savor your stay.
New Ogiya
For those who want to relax and enjoy the hot springs and meals in Tsuchiyu Onsen, this is the perfect choice. It offers the tranquil atmosphere of a long-established inn, making it ideal for a less extravagant stay.
Zao Onsen Inn Ringoya
This inn offers the chance to enjoy winter snowscapes, skiing, frost-covered trees, and hot springs all in one place. Rather than a sense of being in a remote, secluded area, it's a hot spring getaway where you can truly savor the essence of each season.
Yufuin Vineyard Blue
A small inn that accepts only three groups per day. Even in the Yufuin area, known as a tourist destination, it's perfect for those who value a quiet stay.
Preparing to enjoy a secluded hot spring
Checking transportation arrangements, bus schedules, winter road conditions, and meal times before you go will reduce unnecessary worries once you arrive and allow you to focus on the hot springs and your accommodation.
Why are secluded hot springs so popular?
Even with the increasing number of accommodations in convenient locations, some people still prefer to travel to mountain or snowy hot springs because they can experience a unique kind of time and experience that can only be found in those places.
There is value in silence.
Because it takes more effort to get around, there are fewer people around, making it easier to focus on the time you spend at your accommodation.
The hot spring water itself can be the main attraction.
The source of the hot spring, the quality of the water, the design of the bathhouse—for hot spring enthusiasts, memories of the baths are more important than the number of tourist destinations.
The seasons are strongly reflected.
Snow, autumn leaves, lush green mountains, morning mist. The closer you are to nature, the more the seasons directly influence the impression of your trip.
The time spent at the accommodation will be longer.
By not cramming too much into the surrounding area and instead focusing on enjoying the bath, meals, and morning walks, the accommodation becomes the central focus of the trip.
It's easy to explain the reason for going.
A trip where you have a reason like, "It was far away, but I really wanted to soak in that hot spring," will remain in your memory even after you return home.
Easy to connect to sightseeing in the surrounding area
Adding the surrounding nature, temples and shrines, or an experience to the hot springs themselves transforms a secluded hot spring resort into a truly enriching travel experience.
FAQ
Here are some points to check before choosing a secluded or remote hot spring.
Can I go to a secluded hot spring even if it's my first time?
Yes, you can go. However, checking transportation, the frequency of trains and buses, shuttle services, and winter road conditions is essential. If it's your first time, it's best to start with accommodations that offer shuttle services or are close to the hot spring resort area.
What's the difference between a secluded hot spring and a regular hot spring inn?
While there's no clear dividing line, hot spring inns that are located in mountainous areas, have natural springs, offer tranquility, are surrounded by nature, and are small in size are often considered secluded or hidden hot springs.
Which season is best?
In winter, the contrast between snow and hot springs is appealing; in autumn, the colorful foliage; and in spring and summer, the lush greenery of the mountains and the sound of the river are the main attractions. The impression of the inn changes dramatically with the seasons.
What should I check before making a reservation?
It's a good idea to check the access, shuttle service, meal times, final check-in date, nearby shops, winter road conditions, and cancellation policy beforehand.
A trip to take a bath
The charm of secluded hot springs lies outside of convenience. Even if it's a little far, the desire to experience the unique hot springs and tranquility of that place is worthwhile. Find your perfect hot spring trip with JEPS.