Nozawa Onsen

An ancient hot spring in Nozawa Onsen village, Nagano Prefecture, featuring 13 public bathhouses scattered throughout town and available free to residents. Managed as communal assets since the Edo period, they remain central to community identity. Also known as a ski resort, attracting approximately 1.5 million visitors annually. It exemplifies the relationship between Japanese hot spring culture and local society.

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 hot spring city boasting the highest volume of spring water in Japan. Known for its 'Beppu Hatto' — eight distinct onsen areas — and 'Jigoku Meguri' (Hell Tour), the city has roughly 2,300 individual springs. Diverse tourism experiences leverage these thermal resources in creative ways.

One of Japan's 'Three Great Hot Springs' in Gunma Prefecture. Roughly 4,000 liters of hot spring water gush per minute from the Yubatake (hot water field), and unique bathing customs include yumomi (water stirring) shows. It consistently ranks among Japan's most popular onsen destinations.

Hokkaido's premier hot spring resort, nicknamed the 'Department Store of Onsen' for its nine different spring types. The Jigokudani (Hell Valley) with rising steam and sulfur scents conveys nature's overwhelming power. Welcoming about three million visitors annually, it excels at hosting international tourists.

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.'