Noboribetsu Onsen Derived from the Ainu word "Nupurupetsu" (dark, cloudy river), Noboribetsu Onsen is arguably the most famous onsen in Hokkaido which lives up to its name by spewing 10, 000 tons of muddy water every day from the nearby Jigokudani Valley. Don't underestimate these muddy waters as they actually contain nine types of waters, a mind-boggling range that includes salt/saline spring, sulphur spring, radium spring, among others! As you immerse yourself in such mineral-rich waters, you can also feast your eyes on the verdant greenery of Shikotsu-Toya National Park.

Hakone 17 Spas Perfect for a day trip from Tokyo, Hakone has been a well-loved onsen resort for the Japanese since the start of the Edo era in 1603. And it's not hard to understand why: located strategically at the foot of Mount Fuji, Hakone showcases picturesque and panoramic views of Japan's most iconic landmark. Feel your stress vanish away as you take in the majesty of Mount Fuji and realize how insignificant your troubles are in the face of this gigantic mountain. Hakone also proves to be a family-family destination as it contains Hakone Kowakien Yunessun, a fun water theme park that enables you and your children to spoil yourselves silly in intriguing waters like coffee, wine, and not forgetting, Japan's beverage of choice, green tea!

Shuzenji Onsen Want to get up close with one of Japan's top 100 hot springs during an idyllic weekend trip away from bustling Tokyo? If this sounds right up your alley, you will be elated to know that you can enjoy some much-needed peace and quiet at Shuzenji Onsen, a quaint resort town situated along the Katsura River in Shizuoka Prefecture. Revel in its rich history by visiting the 1,200 year-old Shuzenji Temple, soak up the town's charmingly rustic ambience when using the free kawara-yu (foot bath) and don't forget to treat yourself to unspoiled gorgeous views of the nearby rolling hills!

Yubara Onsen This onsen in Okayama Prefecture is admittedly a little hard to get to from Okayama City, but it is worth checking out for several reasons. For one, although it is a thriving onsen town, you can soak in Sunayu, an open-air onsen for free! Just imagine the joy that will surge within you if you come to take a dip here in winter - with snow falling right before you! What's more, Sunayu is actually a mixed-gender onsen that allows for both men and ladies to relax in the same waters. Such a novel opportunity to observe how Japanese people interact unabashedly with one another in this unisex onsen should not be missed!

Naoshima Bath Hot springs that boast amazing natural scenery are everywhere, so how about immersing yourself in the arts while rejuvenating yourself in a hot bath? This rare experience will be yours for the taking if you visit "I Love Yu", a public bathhouse situated in Naoshima, an island renowned for its outstanding art facilities. Be prepared to keep yourself busy with the bright tiles and eye-catching art installations decked out in psychedelic, bold colors. From the walls to the bathtubs and even restrooms, "I Love Yu” will definitely enhance the therapeutic effect on you with its two-pronged approach of art and onsen water!

Kurokawa Onsen Mention Kumamoto Prefecture, and its irresistibly cute mascot, Kumamon springs to mind. However, do you know that Kumamoto is also home to Kurokawa Onsen, a cluster of 30 onsen that are located along the Tanoharu River? Here, instead of gazing longingly at faraway mountain or ocean views, you can gain a cozy experience as you take a dip in hot springs located just beside romantically trickling streams and lush greenery. What better way to get up close with Mother Nature? Also, Kurokawa Onsen scores points for letting visitors buy a cedar pass for 1300 yen that gains them entry to three onsen of their choice. Thus, die-hard onsen lovers can enjoy three distinct experiences in one day. How freaking cool is that?

Tsuboyu Onsen Tsuboyu Onsen may appear to be an insignificant place at first, for it is just a small stone bath in an equally small cabin set atop Yunotani River in Wakayama Prefecture. However, its reputation packs a powerful punch as it is a World Heritage-listed site! Linked closely to the Kumano pilgrimage, it bore witness to how pilgrims far and wide braved long journeys to get a respite from the healing waters - a fine example that we ought to emulate. Only 2 people can use the bath at any one time, so it is recommended that you come early in the day so that you can wait successfully for your turn. When your turn has come, be sure to stay in the waters for the whole of the 30 minutes allocated to you so that you can get a thrill if the water of Tsuboyu Onsen changes color. (It is said to change color a whooping seven times a day.)