Kurokawa Onsen Ryokan Culture

A hot spring region spread across Aso and Minami-Aso villages in Kumamoto Prefecture. Located at the base of Mount Aso, which has one of the world's largest calderas, it offers hot springs amid vast grasslands and volcanic landscapes. Features mixed simple and sulfur waters with diverse mineral content. The fusion of majestic nature and onsen captivates visitors.

A 1,300-year-old hot spring town in northern Hyogo. Seven public bathhouses are scattered along charming willow-lined streets, and the custom of strolling between baths in yukata and geta is the signature experience. Also known as the setting of Shiga Naoya's literary work 'At Kinosaki.'

Cultural development of foot bath traditions in Tamagawa Onsen, Matsue, Shimane Prefecture. Free foot baths installed throughout the hot spring town enable casual visitor access to onsen experiences. Often called 'democratization of hot spring towns,' this initiative spread from the 1970s and is now widely adopted at onsen nationwide.

A hot spring resort in Nozawa Onsen Village, Nagano Prefecture, featuring the historic 'Thirteen Baths'—communal facilities since the Edo period, still maintained by locals. Numerous free outdoor baths scattered throughout allow casual access to hot springs. Also renowned as a ski resort, winter snow bathing experiences attract many visitors seeking immersion in snowy mountain settings.

A uniquely Japanese bathing culture built around natural hot springs born of volcanic geography. Cherished since ancient times for physical and mental healing as well as social bonding, onsen culture — together with ryokan hospitality and the charm of hot spring towns — has become an IP symbolizing the Japanese lifestyle.

Traditional Japanese inns integrating tatami rooms, kaiseki cuisine, hot springs, and omotenashi hospitality. Ranging from luxury establishments like Kagaya to family-run small inns, ryokan embody Japan's unique hospitality culture in diverse forms.

Traditional accommodations at Japan's hot spring resorts. Follow design and operations continuing from the Edo period, characterized by gardens, yukata robes, and kaiseki dining. Promote health through spring water properties, facilitate guest interaction, and feature seasonal cuisine. Over 3,000 ryokans operate nationwide, forming the core of Japanese tourism.