A Lonely Planet guide to Wakayama's onsens

10.01.2025 - 08:51 / lonelyplanet.com

Jan 9, 2025 • 6 min read

There’s nothing quite like bathing in the blissfully warm, mineral-rich waters of an onsen on a trip to Japan. For generations, both locals and visitors have flocked to these ancient hot springs to rejuvenate mind, body and spirit.

And one place in particular stands out for experiencing Japan's most famous contribution to holistic healing. Wakayama Prefecture, to the south of Osaka, is a nature lover's dream. With its unspoiled natural scenery, it's the perfect place to try out one of the country’s best-loved pastimes.

Here's how to get the best from the onsen experience in Wakayama Prefecture.

Thanks to high levels of volcanic activity in Japan, the country has natural hot springs in their thousands, scattered in diverse locations all over the country. Throughout the ages, people have been lured to onsen towns by the health benefits of bathing in the warm, soothing waters, which are infused with natural minerals. 

Onsens come in several varieties, from simple natural pools (be careful of the temperatures at these locations as the waters can be scalding hot) to stylish indoor bathhouses at hotels, health spas, andtraditional Japanese ryokan inns. Outdoor rotenburo baths offer an invigoratingly authentic experience, often with the bonus of beautiful views.

In Japan, hot springs are celebrated for their healing properties, as well as acting as an important setting for social interaction. Visiting an onsen is a delightful way to immerse yourself in Japanese culture, though be aware that most onsens require bathers to be naked, so you'll need to leave your inhibitions at the door.

Thanks to the sheer range of bathing options and the many locations where naturally hot mineral waters bubble to the surface, Wakayama has earned a reputation as one of the best onsen destinations in Japan. Hot spring bathing has a long history here – the historic Yunomine Onsen was founded nearly 1800 years ago, earning it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

With an abundance of hot spring retreats and spa resorts, this is the place to sample experiences such as a two-person bath on an island and a gigantic river bath that can accommodate up to 1000 bathers. Travelers can even soak their feet in a volcanically warmed foot bath while they dine!

Historic springs lie dotted around the countryside in Wakayama. Wakayama Prefecture has a dedicated website with a handy guide to onsen spots around the area.

Shirahama: As well as having incredible beaches, the coastal town of Shirahama boasts some of Japan’s oldest and best-known onsens, including the open-air Shirasuna Onsen, located on the boardwalk in the middle of the town, and Sakino-yu, an onsen on a rocky outcrop with ocean views, approximately 1km south of