Though onsen (hot springs) are found all around Japan, Kanagawa is one of the prefectures where they are most abundant. And even amongst the onsen of Kanagawa, those of the Hakone and Yugawara areas in particular have been known for their high water volumes since long ago. There are also an incredible variety of them: in addition to those easily accessible by transportation, there are rustic onsen nestled deep in the mountains, onsen boasting sea or woodland delicacies, and much more. Another reason for the great appeal of these areas is the fact they lie within approximately one hour of major cities such as Tokyo, Kawasaki and Yokohama. So when you’re in Kanagawa, be sure to take some time to relax and take in the area’s onsen!
Japan is an onsen paradise, and the onsen of Hakone are some of the best－not only in Kanagawa but in the entire country,
and nowadays the area is even known overseas. With a total of 17 onsen areas and some 20 different varieties of spring mineral
content, Hakone can rightfully be called one huge onsen village. In addition to the onsen themselves,
there are more than 100 hotels and ryokan (Japanese-style inns) in the area, which means that visitors, whether it be families,
groups of friends or co-workers, can always find accommodation to perfectly suit their tastes and the number of people traveling.
In recent years, the number of onsen geared toward day trips has risen dramatically, so that now just about anyone can enjoy a casual trip to one.
And yet the appeal of Hakone is in no way limited to its onsen－the area is also home to magnificent natural settings, gorgeous views and historical sites.
The Yugawara Onsen is located approximately one hour from Tokyo by limited express
train on the JR Tokaido Line. The onsen of this area, believed to be of excellent quality and to have therapeutic properties effective in the treatment
of all kinds of conditions, have long been very popular. Part of their special appeal is that they are considered to be
extremely mild. In this sense, the onsen of Yugawara are suitable for everyone, even those not necessarily
accustomed to the high temperatures of Japanese onsen!
Besides those of Hakone and Yugawara, there are numerous other onsen in Kanagawa
Prefecture, and the majority of these are found in the mountain foothillls of Tanzawa and Oyama in the western side of the prefecture.
The area includes many onsen with special qualities. Amongst these, the onsen of Atsugi City are renowned for
leaving the skin silky smooth, while those of Tsurumaki are said to contain as much calcium as milk does.
The wonderfully unique onsen of Tanzawa and Oyama are definitely worth a visit.
In addition to their thoroughly relaxing effect, many onsen also have therapeutic qualities. Get to know the benefits of the onsen of Kanagawa Prefecture, and use them to maintain and recover optimal health! Click here for details.
Onsen are a distinct aspect of Japanese culture, and the Japanese consider them to be great fun. There is a unique set of procedures involved in onsen bathing. Further, in many cases, there is certain etiquette to be observed at onsen where a number of people bathe at the same time. Observe these rules and enjoy your onsen experience to the fullest! Click here for details.
