Few experiences rival the quiet luxury of soaking in a hot spring while snow gently falls around you. The stark contrast between the icy air and the steaming water creates a sensory calm that soothes the body and mind. Winter in Japan transforms its onsen towns into magical sanctuaries, where snow-covered landscapes frame the baths, turning each soak into a moment of stillness and reflection.

In the middle of winter, an onsen is a much-needed reprieve from the cold, and also a window into Japan’s deep-rooted culture of hospitality and wellness. As the snow muffles the world around, the only sounds are the gentle ripples of water and the soft crunch of frost underfoot, reminding us of the simple joys found in life’s quietest moments.

See also: Best Onsen in Japan

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1. Zao Onsen (Yamagata)

Zao Onsen (蔵王温泉) in Yamagata Prefecture is a beloved winter destination, combining stunning natural landscapes with rejuvenating hot springs. The area is famed for its “snow monsters” (樹氷, juhyo), a phenomenon where frost and snow transform trees into surreal icy sculptures. Visitors can enjoy these sights while soaking in open-air baths, creating a uniquely Japanese winter experience. The sulfuric waters here are highly regarded for their therapeutic benefits, particularly for skin ailments and muscle fatigue, attracting both locals and tourists.

Beyond the hot springs, Zao Onsen is also home to one of Japan’s premier ski resorts, offering a variety of slopes for all skill levels. The town itself is charming, with traditional ryokan, quaint streets, and local eateries serving specialties like imoni (a hearty taro soup). Whether you’re skiing, hiking, or simply relaxing, Zao Onsen encapsulates the essence of a perfect winter getaway in Japan.

Map

Official Website

https://zaomountainresort.com/

2. Nyuto Onsen (Akita)

Tucked away in the mountains of Akita Prefecture, Nyuto Onsen (乳頭温泉) offers a secluded retreat into Japan’s traditional onsen culture. The name translates to “nipple hot spring,” inspired by the shape of nearby Mt. Nyuto. The area comprises seven rustic ryokan, each with their own mineral-rich hot springs. These ryokan, such as the iconic Tsurunoyu Onsen (鶴の湯温泉), have a history dating back over 300 years, providing an authentic and tranquil bathing experience.

In winter, Nyuto Onsen transforms into a snow-covered wonderland, where steaming baths contrast beautifully against the pristine white landscape. Visitors can purchase an onsen pass to explore all seven ryokan, each offering unique water properties and stunning settings. The remote location ensures a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those seeking relaxation and a connection to nature. Nearby hiking trails and the Towada-Hachimantai National Park add to its appeal, making Nyuto Onsen a perfect retreat for all seasons.

More info: Nyuto Onsen: the Hidden Onsen Village in Northern Japan

3. Ginzan Onsen (Yamagata)

Ginzan Onsen (銀山温泉), located in Yamagata Prefecture, is one of Japan’s most picturesque hot spring towns. Its name, meaning “silver mountain,” stems from the discovery of silver in the area during the Edo period. The town’s historic wooden ryokan, illuminated by gas lamps, line the Ginzan River, creating a nostalgic ambiance reminiscent of the Taisho era. In winter, heavy snow blankets the town, transforming it into a fairytale-like destination.

Visitors can soak in public baths or ryokan rotenburo while enjoying views of the snow-covered surroundings. For those seeking more than just hot springs, the Shirogane Waterfall (白銀の滝) and the Nobesawa Ginzan silver mine ruins provide interesting day-trip options. Ginzan Onsen’s quaint streets also offer local delicacies, including onsen manju (steamed buns) and freshly grilled dango. This enchanting destination is perfect for couples, photographers, and anyone looking to experience traditional Japan in a magical winter setting.

More info: GINZAN Onsen: Nostalgic Hot Spring Town from 19th Century

4. Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma)

Kusatsu Onsen (草津温泉) in Gunma Prefecture is among Japan’s most famous hot spring resorts, celebrated for its high-quality waters and unique yubatake (湯畑), or “hot water field.” The yubatake serves as the centerpiece of the town, where steaming water flows through wooden conduits, cooling before being distributed to the local baths. Kusatsu’s sulfur-rich waters boast the highest natural flow rate in Japan and are revered for their therapeutic benefits, particularly for skin conditions and muscle relaxation.

During winter, the town’s streets, covered in snow, create a striking contrast with the steaming baths, making it a prime destination for seasonal travelers. Visitors can enjoy a range of options, from traditional public baths to luxurious ryokan with private rotenburo. Kusatsu also offers unique cultural experiences, such as yumomi performances, where locals stir the hot spring water to cool it. 

More info: Kusatsu Onsen: Best Things to Do

5. Shirahone Onsen (Nagano)

Located deep in Nagano Prefecture’s Northern Alps, Shirahone Onsen (白骨温泉) is renowned for its milky-white waters, said to resemble bone color and give the area its name, which means “white bone hot spring.” The distinctive color comes from high levels of calcium and magnesium, known for their soothing effects on the skin and digestive system. Shirahone is a quieter destination compared to larger resorts, making it ideal for those seeking solitude and relaxation.

Winter transforms the area into a serene, snow-covered haven, where open-air baths offer breathtaking views of frosty forests and rugged mountains. A highlight is soaking in the outdoor bath at Awanoyu Ryokan, where the steaming white water contrasts dramatically with the snowy landscape. The region also offers hiking trails and natural beauty in warmer months, making it an appealing year-round getaway. 

Map

 Official Website

http://www.shirahone.org/

6. Takaragawa Onsen (Gunma)

Takaragawa Onsen (宝川温泉) in Gunma Prefecture is famed for its immense open-air baths set along the scenic Takaragawa River. Surrounded by dense forests and dramatic mountains, the baths are particularly magical in winter, when heavy snow blankets the surroundings, creating a peaceful and pristine atmosphere. The onsen’s rustic charm is enhanced by traditional wooden bridges and ryokan that blend seamlessly with the natural landscape.

Known for its mixed-gender baths, Takaragawa Onsen welcomes those seeking a more traditional onsen experience, although separate areas are available for women. The mineral-rich waters are celebrated for their ability to soothe fatigue and improve circulation, making it popular among both locals and tourists. Guests can stay overnight in one of the onsen’s ryokan or visit for the day. For those combining relaxation with adventure, nearby hiking trails and ski resorts add variety to a stay at this picturesque retreat.

More info: Takaragawa Onsen: Wonderful Day Trip Onsen from Tokyo

7. Okuhida Onsen 

Okuhida Onsen (奥飛騨温泉郷), located in the rugged terrain of Gifu Prefecture, is a collection of five hot spring villages: Hirayu, Shin-Hirayu, Fukuji, Shin-Hotaka, and Tochio. Each offers a unique charm, but all are renowned for their open-air baths set against the backdrop of the Northern Japanese Alps. During winter, heavy snow blankets the landscape, transforming the area into a serene and picturesque retreat.

The baths, often surrounded by snow-covered trees and mountains, provide a tranquil escape where visitors can soak while enjoying breathtaking views. Okuhida Onsen is particularly known for its rustic rotenburo, some located by rivers or secluded in forests. Visitors can also take the Shin-Hotaka Ropeway, which offers panoramic views of the alpine scenery. 

Map

 Official Website

https://www.okuhida.or.jp/

8. Nozawa Onsen (Nagano)

Nozawa Onsen (野沢温泉), located in Nagano Prefecture, is a quintessential Japanese hot spring village with over 1,000 years of history. Known for its free public baths (soto-yu), the village offers 13 traditional onsen scattered throughout its charming streets. These public baths, fed by natural hot springs, are maintained by the community and provide a glimpse into the local way of life.

In winter, Nozawa Onsen becomes a paradise for skiers, thanks to its famous ski resort and abundant snowfall. After a day on the slopes, visitors can unwind in the steaming baths while admiring snow-covered rooftops and icy landscapes. The village also hosts the annual Dosojin Fire Festival in January, a spectacular event that draws crowds from across Japan. 

Map

Official Website

https://www.vill.nozawaonsen.nagano.jp/

9. Kurokawa Onsen 

Tucked into the mountains of Kumamoto Prefecture, Kurokawa Onsen (黒川温泉) offers a rustic and tranquil escape far removed from Japan’s bustling cities. The town is celebrated for its traditional aesthetic, with wooden ryokan and stone pathways that blend seamlessly with the natural environment. Kurokawa is known for its open-air baths, many of which are located by rivers or within lush forests, creating a harmonious connection with nature.

In winter, light snowfall dusts the area, adding to its peaceful charm. Visitors can purchase a unique onsen-hopping pass, which grants access to multiple rotenburo across different ryokan. The waters here, rich in minerals, are believed to have therapeutic properties, attracting visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. 

Map

Official Website

https://www.kurokawaonsen.or.jp/

10. Manza Onsen 

Perched at an altitude of 1,800 meters in Gunma Prefecture, Manza Onsen (万座温泉) is one of Japan’s highest hot spring resorts. Known for its sulfur-rich waters, which range in temperature and color from milky white to light green, this onsen is celebrated for its therapeutic properties, particularly in improving circulation and easing joint pain.

Winter transforms Manza into a pristine retreat, where snow-covered mountains surround open-air baths, offering visitors a surreal and calming experience. Many ryokan and hotels feature outdoor baths with panoramic views of the snowy landscape, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of warmth amidst the cold. The high altitude ensures a quieter, more remote experience compared to busier onsen towns. Manza Onsen is also a gateway to winter activities, including nearby ski resorts and trails.

Map

Official Website

https://www.manza.co.jp/

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