Why not enjoy a day trip to a hot spring where you can relax both your mind and body? It's wonderful that you can go spontaneously without worrying about what to bring. The number of facilities offering natural hot springs, bedrock baths, saunas, and spa menus is increasing, and we will introduce you to the ever-evolving appeal of day trip hot springs.
These days, many day trip hot springs provide essential amenities such as shampoo and towels either for free or for a fee (for sale or rental). We recommend checking the available amenities at the facility before you go.
Bathing has many benefits, including relaxation, promoting metabolism, aiding recovery from fatigue, and reducing swelling. Additionally, hot springs offer various benefits, such as improving circulation and healing wounds, depending on the water quality. Choosing a facility based on the quality of the spring water is also a great idea.
Today's day-trip hot springs are fully equipped with more than just hot springs and saunas. You can enjoy a heated pool, salons offering numerous spa plans, countless comics and magazines, and even a game center, making it impossible to enjoy everything in one day. Plus, the number of facilities offering delicious meals is on the rise.
First, start by pouring hot water over yourself. Begin from the areas farthest from your chest to prepare for the rise in blood pressure that occurs immediately after bathing. Instead of fully immersing yourself in hot water right away, ease your body into it gradually. Bathing time should be moderate—when you start to feel a bit sweaty on your forehead and nose, it's a good sign to stop. After your bath, it's important to hydrate and take a rest. Since bathing consumes energy and affects your blood pressure, take about a 30-minute break until your body stabilizes.
These days, many day trip hot springs provide essential amenities such as shampoo and towels either for free or for a fee (for sale or rental). We recommend checking the available amenities at the facility before you go.
Bathing has many benefits, including relaxation, promoting metabolism, aiding recovery from fatigue, and reducing swelling. Additionally, hot springs offer various benefits, such as improving circulation and healing wounds, depending on the water quality. Choosing a facility based on the quality of the spring water is also a great idea.
Today's day-trip hot springs are fully equipped with more than just hot springs and saunas. You can enjoy a heated pool, salons offering numerous spa plans, countless comics and magazines, and even a game center, making it impossible to enjoy everything in one day. Plus, the number of facilities offering delicious meals is on the rise.
First, start by pouring hot water over yourself. Begin from the areas farthest from your chest to prepare for the rise in blood pressure that occurs immediately after bathing. Instead of fully immersing yourself in hot water right away, ease your body into it gradually. Bathing time should be moderate—when you start to feel a bit sweaty on your forehead and nose, it's a good sign to stop. After your bath, it's important to hydrate and take a rest. Since bathing consumes energy and affects your blood pressure, take about a 30-minute break until your body stabilizes.
Sauna and Bedrock Bath
Private Bath
Natural Hot Spring
Wide Variety
Public Bath, Super Public Bath, Spa
Good Access
Saunas and bedrock baths have become indispensable at day-trip hot spring facilities these days. Both saunas and bedrock baths make you sweat a lot, which provides a "detox" effect by removing excess water, salt, and waste products from your body. Additionally, warming the body promotes blood circulation, which can help improve back pain, stiff shoulders, and even prevent lifestyle-related diseases. The effect on the body differs between a sauna, which warms the body quickly, and a bedrock bath, which warms it more gradually. Please choose according to your physical condition.
Fukushima
A complex spa where you can enjoy a day of health and beauty
Located in Obama-cho, Iwaki City, Fukushima Prefecture, this is a complex spa where you can enjoy a wide variety of baths, including an open-air bath where you can enjoy the changing nature of the four seasons, a herbal medicinal bath, a tourmaline bath, and a highly concentrated carbonated spring bath. It is a popular "bath resort" where families can spend a whole day having fun, as it offers a full range of services such as an authentic Loryu sauna, bedrock bath, and Akasuri, as well as a restaurant and relaxation space. It is suitable not only for family use but also for groups and business use. It also has accommodation facilities and is widely used for training camps, training sessions, and banquets.
Hokkaido
"Auto Loyly" for the Ultimate "Totonoi" Experience
"Sauna Cotan Sapporo" is located about a six-minute drive from the "Daiwa House Premist Dome" in Toyohira Ward, Sapporo. Its name combines the Finnish word kota, meaning "Hut," and the Ainu word kotan, meaning "Village." This auto-loyly sauna is supervised by a board member of the Japan Sauna Society. The men’s sauna features brick walls reminiscent of a Scandinavian sauna hut, while the women’s sauna has benches encircling a stove, evoking the feeling of a bonfire in a Finnish forest. Both settings recreate the atmosphere of Northern Europe. From first-time visitors to seasoned sauna enthusiasts, all can enjoy a soothing "Totonou" experience (deeply calming sensation after a sauna).
Hokkaido
A Hot Spring With Beautiful Views Loved by Locals
"Natural Hot Spring Nanaehama no Yu" is a hot spring facility in a fantastic location right in front of the sea. The indoor bath is a free-flowing sodium chloride spring that keeps you warm, and the open-air bath with an ocean view offers views of Mount Hakodate and the ferries. The sunset time is particularly beautiful and will soothe both body and mind. The sauna is well-equipped with a far-infrared sauna, a high-temperature sauna (for men), and a cold plunge. The facility also includes a sports club and a chiropractic clinic. Conveniently located approximately a 15-minute drive from JR Hakodate Station, it is an ideal stop for a brief, relaxing soak during a scenic drive or sightseeing trip.
Kagawa
A facility in Kagawa Prefecture that is fully equipped with a women's Lory sauna.
Shiohama no Yu Shikoku Kenkomura, located approximately 10 minutes by car from Sakaide IC on the Seto Chuo Expressway, is a hot spring facility where you can enjoy a bath, sauna, and meals all day long. There are a variety of baths for men and women, and the women's bathroom has a new exclusive "Lowry sauna", where they hold daily self-lowry sessions, which are rare in Kagawa Prefecture, and Aufguss, which involves raising steam and blowing hot air through it. You can enjoy popular theater performances inside the building, and the restaurant offers local gourmet food from Kagawa Prefecture and a wide variety of drinks. The popular Shikoku Aquarium is about a 7-minute walk from the facility, and there are many tourist attractions, so why not take a bath to soothe your fatigue during your trip?
Search for Day Trip Hot Spring Facilities With Saunas and Bedrock Baths by Area
Private baths used to be associated with luxury inns, but more and more day-trip hot spring facilities are now offering them. You can enjoy a bath in a private room, making it ideal not only for couples on a date but also for families with children. You can relax without worrying about being seen by others. Some facilities even offer private rooms that include both indoor and open-air baths, allowing you to indulge in a luxurious experience.
Yamaguchi
A new place of relaxation in the historic Yuno Onsen
"Yuya Harune" stands in a corner of Yuno Onsen in Shunan City, Yamaguchi. They have three types of hot spring facilities: private hot springs, saunas, and large communal baths. The theme of the private hot spring is Yakushi Nyorai. "Tsubotsubo" is an open space where you can also take a bath in the outside air, with a bathtub shaped like the medicinal pot held by the Yakushi Nyorai in his left hand. In addition, the word "koukou," which represents a shining white light, is an image of the moonlight bodhisattva standing next to Yakushi Nyorai, and you can enjoy the feeling of bathing in dim moonlight even during the day. The public bath has been renovated while retaining the form of Yunoso, which closed in 2022, so fans of the old days will feel nostalgic.
Osaka
A Facility Offering the Ultimate Hot Spring and Camping Experience
"Kaizuka Ibuki Onsen Auto Campground," located approximately 10 minutes by car from the Kaizuka IC on the Hanwa Expressway, is a facility where you can enjoy a variety of experiences such as hot springs, camping, and activities in the midst of nature. At Ibuki Onsen, you can enjoy the slightly alkaline natural springs, known as the "hot springs of beauty," in an open-air bath or a private family bath, as well as a private sauna. There is a 200-square-meter auto campground that can easily accommodate two families, and plenty of indoor facilities for play even on rainy days. At "Le Clos," you can enjoy cuisine supervised by a chef who honed his skills at a three-star restaurant. Why not experience the resort feeling with your family and friends?
Hyogo
A Complex Showcasing Local Specialties and Hot Springs
Hyogo’s Mikki City is home to "Michi-no-Eki Yokawa," a signature destination of the Yoshikawa area. The site features the "Yamada Nishiki Digital Museum," the sake-tasting corner Yokawa Sakagura Street, and "Yamada Nishiki no Yakata" —a complex offering locally brewed sake made with "Yamada Nishiki" rice along with fresh regional produce. It also includes "Yoshikawa Onsen Yokatan," known for its high-carbonation hot springs, creating a hub that highlights the unique appeal of the Yoshikawa area.
Hokkaido
A day-trip hot spring with a great view of the Daisetsuzan Mountain Range
A day-trip hot spring facility inside Morinoyu Hotel Hanakagura. There is an open-air bath with a view where you can enjoy the majestic view of the Daisetsuzan Mountain Range on sunny days and a starry sky at night, and the large public bath is equipped with carbonated spring, low-temperature and high-temperature baths, a sauna, and a cold bath. It is well-equipped with a rest room and is popular for its open space where you can relax. It's easily accessible from Asahikawa City Asahiyama Zoo, so it's a great place to stop by after sightseeing.
Search for Day Trip Hot Spring Facilities With Private Baths by Area
Day-trip hot springs that use natural spring water are especially popular among health-conscious individuals and hot spring enthusiasts. Some facilities have their own hot spring source and offer fresh spring water, while others focus on providing "flowing directly from the source" without circulating the water. Natural hot springs offer various benefits depending on the water type: chloride springs warm the body deeply, hydrogen carbonate springs smooth the skin, and sulfur springs have strong antibacterial properties. When choosing a hot spring facility, be sure to check the spring water quality and its benefits.
Niigata
Beautiful luxury mountain resort
Lotte Arai Resort, located in Myoko City, Niigata Prefecture, which has one of the best ski resorts in Japan, is a luxurious resort space spread out in a beautiful location of nature. There is fun to be had in each season, and, in addition to skiing, there are many other activities available in the winter. The exhilarating experience of playing in the snow at "Snow Adventure (HIZUME)" includes 15 different items, including casual "sledding" and "snow striders." Other activities that both children and adults can enjoy include "building a giant kamakura" and "snow rafting." Go if you want to spend a luxurious time at the hotel within the facility.
Osaka
A Facility Offering the Ultimate Hot Spring and Camping Experience
"Kaizuka Ibuki Onsen Auto Campground," located approximately 10 minutes by car from the Kaizuka IC on the Hanwa Expressway, is a facility where you can enjoy a variety of experiences such as hot springs, camping, and activities in the midst of nature. At Ibuki Onsen, you can enjoy the slightly alkaline natural springs, known as the "hot springs of beauty," in an open-air bath or a private family bath, as well as a private sauna. There is a 200-square-meter auto campground that can easily accommodate two families, and plenty of indoor facilities for play even on rainy days. At "Le Clos," you can enjoy cuisine supervised by a chef who honed his skills at a three-star restaurant. Why not experience the resort feeling with your family and friends?
Yamanashi
A Large Day-Trip Hot Spring With a Park and Pool Attached
"Yamanami-no-Yu" is a large day-trip hot spring facility located on the banks of the Kamanashi-gawa River in western Yamanashi . Situated within "Yamanami Fureai Park"—which also features a pool, park, and tennis courts available for all ages—you can enjoy a mix of playful activities and relaxing hot spring baths at your leisure. Known as "Hot springs for beautiful skin" due to their excellent heat retention and skin-enhancing properties, the facility offers 11 types of baths, including an open-air bath, as well as a sauna, ensuring a peaceful environment to unwind.
Oita
Relax in a Soothing Beppu Onsen Stopover
Located near the Beppu interchange on the Higashi-Kyushu Expressway, "Sakurayu" is a day-use hot spring facility known for its abundant spring water and consistently well-maintained, spotless baths. Guests appreciate freshly sourced, free-flowing spring water, along with twenty types of private family baths ideal for a peaceful retreat. The main bathhouse features hinoki tubs that create a warm, inviting atmosphere, while the open-air bath—surrounded by trees and built with impressive natural stones—offers a soothing soak with views that shift beautifully with the seasons. Whether unwinding in winter or rinsing off the heat of summer, the mineral-rich hot spring provides refreshing, gentle moisture that leaves the body revived.
Search for Day Trip Hot Spring Facilities With Natural Hot Springs by Area
This is especially true at super public baths, where both indoor and outdoor baths offer a wide variety of options, allowing you to have a fulfilling time at just one facility. Examples include lying baths, walking baths, jacuzzis, highly concentrated carbonated springs with artificially added carbon dioxide, and medicated baths with bath additives that are good for the body. Time may fly by if you take your time enjoying each bath. If you visit with friends of the same gender, you're sure to have fun.
Fukushima
A Favorite Roadside Station Full of Fukushima’s Local Flavor
This roadside station in Naraha Town, Futaba County, Fukushima, is a facility that combines the atmosphere of the modern "J Village" with Kido-juku on the Hama-kaido road. It is equipped with natural hot spring facilities, and the food court offers a wide variety of local gourmet food, with the "Naraha Kaisen Tanmen (ramen noodles with Stir-fried vegetables)" made with fresh seafood being the most recommended dish. The product hall has a wide selection of Naraha Town's specialties, and is popular as a souvenir or to enjoy local flavors at home.
Yamanashi
A Park, Campground, and Hot Spring Surrounded by Nature
A multi-purpose outdoor complex where families can fully enjoy the beauty of nature. Visitors explore the nationally acclaimed Oshiro River, selected among Japan’s top 100 remarkable waters, join forest activities such as birdwatching, and savor Italian dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Seasonal programs offer memorable experiences for all ages. The site also features a hot spring, cottages, and a campground, making it ideal for both day trips and overnight stays.
Kanagawa
A Theme Park Featuring Hot Springs and Outdoor Activities
A colorful mix of experiences comes together at this hot spring theme park—swimming in pools, relaxing in natural hot springs, enjoying outdoor activities, savoring generous meals, and browsing for souvenirs. At "Yunessun", the swimwear-friendly hot spring area, visitors find not only a flowing pool but also unique baths such as the wine bath. "Mori no Yu", the authentic day-use onsen, offers scenic open-air baths and private bathing rooms, creating a serene setting for an unhurried hot spring retreat.
Niigata
Beautiful luxury mountain resort
Lotte Arai Resort, located in Myoko City, Niigata Prefecture, which has one of the best ski resorts in Japan, is a luxurious resort space spread out in a beautiful location of nature. There is fun to be had in each season, and, in addition to skiing, there are many other activities available in the winter. The exhilarating experience of playing in the snow at "Snow Adventure (HIZUME)" includes 15 different items, including casual "sledding" and "snow striders." Other activities that both children and adults can enjoy include "building a giant kamakura" and "snow rafting." Go if you want to spend a luxurious time at the hotel within the facility.
Search for Day-Trip Hot Spring Facilities With a Wide Variety of Baths by Area
Day trip bathing facilities come in various forms, such as public baths, super public baths, and spas. A sento is a type of public bath, with bathing fees determined by each prefecture. A super sento is larger and offers more entertainment than a traditional sento, often with attached dining and entertainment facilities. Spas provide not only bathing but also services and amenities aimed at relaxation and health, such as aromatherapy and massage. Each has its own unique appeal, different from hot springs where you can enjoy the benefits of various water qualities.
Yamanashi
A Large Day-Trip Hot Spring With a Park and Pool Attached
"Yamanami-no-Yu" is a large day-trip hot spring facility located on the banks of the Kamanashi-gawa River in western Yamanashi . Situated within "Yamanami Fureai Park"—which also features a pool, park, and tennis courts available for all ages—you can enjoy a mix of playful activities and relaxing hot spring baths at your leisure. Known as "Hot springs for beautiful skin" due to their excellent heat retention and skin-enhancing properties, the facility offers 11 types of baths, including an open-air bath, as well as a sauna, ensuring a peaceful environment to unwind.
Hyogo
A Complex Showcasing Local Specialties and Hot Springs
Hyogo’s Mikki City is home to "Michi-no-Eki Yokawa," a signature destination of the Yoshikawa area. The site features the "Yamada Nishiki Digital Museum," the sake-tasting corner Yokawa Sakagura Street, and "Yamada Nishiki no Yakata" —a complex offering locally brewed sake made with "Yamada Nishiki" rice along with fresh regional produce. It also includes "Yoshikawa Onsen Yokatan," known for its high-carbonation hot springs, creating a hub that highlights the unique appeal of the Yoshikawa area.
Aichi
Relaxing Natural Hot Springs Next to the Highway Oasis
Located within the Kariya Highway Oasis on the Isewangan Expressway, "Natural Hot Spring Kakitsubata" features a wide variety of bathing options, including open-air baths with free-flowing hot spring water, a mildly carbonated bath at a low temperature, electric massage baths, esthetic baths, and soothing tubs. The facility also offers saunas and a stone sauna (ganbanyoku). The natural hot spring water, drawn from approximately 1,200 meters underground, is a mildly alkaline chloride spring known for its excellent properties - it absorbs easily into the skin, helps retain body warmth after bathing, and is effective for dry skin and sensitivity to cold. With a range of relaxation spaces, the facility provides a comfortable experience for solo visitors and families alike, making it easy to spend a full day in comfort.
Fukushima
A complex spa where you can enjoy a day of health and beauty
Located in Obama-cho, Iwaki City, Fukushima Prefecture, this is a complex spa where you can enjoy a wide variety of baths, including an open-air bath where you can enjoy the changing nature of the four seasons, a herbal medicinal bath, a tourmaline bath, and a highly concentrated carbonated spring bath. It is a popular "bath resort" where families can spend a whole day having fun, as it offers a full range of services such as an authentic Loryu sauna, bedrock bath, and Akasuri, as well as a restaurant and relaxation space. It is suitable not only for family use but also for groups and business use. It also has accommodation facilities and is widely used for training camps, training sessions, and banquets.
Search Public Baths, Super Public Baths, and Spa Day Trip Hot Spring Facilities by Area
In the past, day-trip hot spring facilities were often located in places most convenient for access by car. However, more and more are now found in easily accessible locations such as near train stations, airports, and hotels, making them easy to visit without a car. Whether you want to enjoy a spacious bath while staying in a city hotel or unwind before or after traveling by plane or train, these facilities cater to your needs. Why not add a visit to a day-trip hot spring facility to your travel routine?
Search for Easily Accessible Day Trip Hot Spring Facilities by Area
