Oku-Okhotsk Rotenburo Culture

Five hot spring towns at the foot of the Northern Alps. Said to have the most open-air baths in Japan, its outdoor baths overlooking 3,000m peaks offer breathtaking scale.

Open-air bathing experiences at distinctively colored hot springs in Beppu, such as the Blue Hell, accessible to tourists as part of the Hell Tour. Many facilities offer authentic soaking while functioning as tourist attractions, exemplifying the diversity of Japanese hot spring culture and tourism evolution. Used by approximately 1 million visitors annually.

A collective term for six hot spring communities nestled in the northern Hida Mountains near Takayama, Gifu Prefecture. Comprises Shinhotaka, Tochiao, Fukuji, and Shinuhotaka onsen plus three distinctive rotenburo areas. Despite its remote mountain setting, settlements spread along the Kameda River. Particularly beautiful during autumn foliage season, attracting hikers and onsen enthusiasts.

A hot spring resort along the Kinugawa River in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture. Known since the Edo period but rapidly developed after rail access in the Taisho era. Luxury ryokan line the gorge, and it is valued as the Kanto region's retreat destination. Simple hot spring waters are said to relieve neuralgia and fatigue.

Open-air baths immersed in nature represent the essence of Japanese onsen culture. Bathing while gazing at mountains, streams, ocean, or snowy landscapes offers a sense of unity with nature. This uniquely Japanese wellness practice has garnered worldwide attention.

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.