5 Best Summer Onsen in Japan | Escape the Heat

5 Best Summer Onsen in Japan | Escape the Heat

Summer and hot springs?

It sounds backwards… but summer is actually one of my favorite times of year to visit an onsen.

Higher elevations, cool mountain air, refreshing rivers, coastal breezes, and mineral-rich baths make these destinations the perfect escape from Japan’s intense summer heat.

As a certified Onsen Sommelier & Hot Spring Bathing Consultant, these are five onsen destinations I regularly recommend for summer travel.
Each offers something different, whether you’re looking for cooler weather, incredible scenery, unique spring water, or simply a relaxing place to slow down.

♨️ Featured destinations

• Zao Onsen (Yamagata)
📍 https://maps.google.com/?q=Zao+Onsen

• Atami Onsen (Shizuoka)
📍 https://maps.google.com/?q=Atami+Onsen

• Noboribetsu Onsen (Hokkaido)
📍 https://maps.google.com/?q=Noboribetsu+Onsen

• Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma)
📍 https://maps.google.com/?q=Kusatsu+Onsen

• Akakura Onsen (Niigata)
📍 https://maps.google.com/?q=Akakura+Onsen+Niigata

Have you ever visited an onsen in summer? Which destination would you add to the list? Let me know in the comments!

Keep Soaking! ♨️

*Kusatsu at Night Video:

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🔹Special Thanks🔹

Some of the footage used in this video was kindly provided by the following organizations:

•Murayama City, Yamagata PrefectureJuhyo (Snow Monsters) Tour – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRbuhHD7mho

•Yamagata City Tourism AssociationZao Onsen Open-Air Bath – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qRhWYNTwO8

•Yamagata Prefectural Urban Planning DivisionYamagata Scenic Stories – Juhyo viewed from Zao Ropeway Jizo Summit Station (4K Aerial Footage)
– https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RcETmPI7l0M

•Yamagata Scenic Stories
– https://keikan.pref.yamagata.jp/

•Noboribetsu International Tourism & Convention AssociationJigokudani (Hell Valley) – Noboribetsu Onsen Promotional Video
– https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FGHszxZNSu4

Thank you for your support🙏🏻✨

——
Kyle Card is a certified Onsen Sommelier & Hot Spring Bathing Consultant (温泉入浴指導員) with 15+ years of firsthand experience in Japan.

He specializes in Japanese onsen etiquette, proper bathing practices, and cultural know-how, so you can enjoy hot springs with confidence and respect.

🔔 Subscribe to The Onsen Guy for clear, expert onsen guidance.

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#KeepSoaking

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