Question
Best onsen for beginners in the Japanese Alps
Answers
Answered by
GPT-4o mini
The Japanese Alps offer numerous onsen (hot springs) that are perfect for beginners. Here are a few recommendations:
1. **Karuizawa Onsen**: Located in Nagano Prefecture, Karuizawa has several accessible onsen resorts. It’s easy to reach from Tokyo, making it a great choice for first-timers. Many facilities offer outdoor baths with scenic views.
2. **Hakuba Onsen**: Known for its ski resorts, Hakuba also has several ryokan (traditional inns) with onsen. The atmosphere is relaxed, and many onsen cater to both Japanese and international visitors, providing a comfortable introduction.
3. **Takaragawa Onsen**: Located in Minakami, this onsen features beautiful outdoor baths surrounded by nature. It’s a little more remote, but the mixed-gender baths and scenic setting can offer a unique experience for beginners.
4. **Shibu Onsen**: This historical hot spring village near Yudanaka is famous for its traditional atmosphere. It has many ryokan and public baths, making it a great place for first-time visitors to experience onsen culture while also offering the opportunity to see the famous snow monkeys.
5. **Nozawa Onsen**: Known for its skiing, Nozawa Onsen has a charming village atmosphere and numerous public baths. It's beginner-friendly, with a variety of onsen options and a vibrant après-ski scene.
When visiting an onsen for the first time, remember to follow the bathing etiquette, such as washing before entering the onsen and respecting the facilities. Enjoy your experience!
1. **Karuizawa Onsen**: Located in Nagano Prefecture, Karuizawa has several accessible onsen resorts. It’s easy to reach from Tokyo, making it a great choice for first-timers. Many facilities offer outdoor baths with scenic views.
2. **Hakuba Onsen**: Known for its ski resorts, Hakuba also has several ryokan (traditional inns) with onsen. The atmosphere is relaxed, and many onsen cater to both Japanese and international visitors, providing a comfortable introduction.
3. **Takaragawa Onsen**: Located in Minakami, this onsen features beautiful outdoor baths surrounded by nature. It’s a little more remote, but the mixed-gender baths and scenic setting can offer a unique experience for beginners.
4. **Shibu Onsen**: This historical hot spring village near Yudanaka is famous for its traditional atmosphere. It has many ryokan and public baths, making it a great place for first-time visitors to experience onsen culture while also offering the opportunity to see the famous snow monkeys.
5. **Nozawa Onsen**: Known for its skiing, Nozawa Onsen has a charming village atmosphere and numerous public baths. It's beginner-friendly, with a variety of onsen options and a vibrant après-ski scene.
When visiting an onsen for the first time, remember to follow the bathing etiquette, such as washing before entering the onsen and respecting the facilities. Enjoy your experience!