Gunma's Onsen with International Appeal

Venus from Hong Kong recalls her first onsen experience as a distant memory but highlights how easy it is to follow local onsen etiquette by observing others. “Just don’t stare,” she jokes. For her, outdoor baths are the clear favorite, especially in chilly weather. “The air indoors can feel too hot, but stepping into a warm outdoor onsen in the cold is wonderful. You do have to brave the cold for a moment, but it’s worth it.” Her advice to newcomers is straightforward: “Don’t be shy—no one remembers you. Keep your towel out of the water, tie up your hair, and keep your voice down, especially if you’re speaking your own language. You never know who might understand!” She recommends Tanigawa Onsen and Ikaho Onsen, appreciating Gunma’s quieter, less touristy atmosphere compared to other onsen hotspots.

How to get to Tanigawa
How to get to Ikaho

Rafel from Spain experienced his first onsen bath at Otakinoyu in Kusatsu. “Getting naked in front of everyone felt strange at first, but I got used to it quickly,” he recalls. He enjoyed both the indoor and outdoor baths but found the rotenburo, or open-air bath, particularly memorable, especially in winter. His advice for first-time visitors includes bringing an extra towel to dry off after the bath and keeping initial soaks short to avoid heatstroke. “If it's your first time, I recommend bathing for no more than 10 minutes straight. You can get out, rinse off, and cool down before returning to the hot water.” His favorite onsen spots in Gunma are Sainokawara Open-Air Bath and Otakinoyu in Kusatsu Onsen, noting that they have tattoo-friendly baths. For Rafel, the best part of Gunma’s onsen experience is the breathtaking natural scenery, which makes every visit feel like a peaceful retreat.

How to get to Kusatsu

Chen’s first onsen experience was in his home country of Taiwan, and it left a lasting impression. “The warmth and relaxation on a cold day were unforgettable,” he says. While Taiwan has its own hot spring culture, he notes that adjusting to the Japanese custom of bathing nude with strangers takes some getting used to. For first-timers, Chen advises doing a bit of research to learn onsen etiquette and the different minerals in the water, which have various benefits. “If you're heading to more remote spots, consider planning for a half-day or full-day trip, which can make the experience even richer and more memorable,” he says. His top picks are Manza Onsen, Kusatsu Onsen, and Takaragawa Onsen. He recommends Manza for its stunning mountain views and seasonal beauty, Kusatsu for its iconic Yubatake and vibrant town atmosphere, and Takaragawa for its large, atmospheric outdoor baths for soaking in nature. “Traveling from Tokyo is pretty easy,” he says, “and there are tons of places to stay. The gourmet options around Kusatsu are also numerous, with a variety of friendly restaurants to choose from.” Chen says he heads to Gunma when he needs a break from busy city life. “With its untouched, rustic vibe, the Gunma countryside feels really refreshing.”

How to get to Manza

For Nattanit from Thailand, her first onsen experience was a mix of excitement and nervousness. “It felt intimidating at first, but once I stepped into the hot water, it was pure bliss,” she says. The warmth brought instant relaxation, both physically and mentally. She encourages first-timers not to stress about the customs, emphasizing that a little preparation goes a long way. “Wash thoroughly before entering, bring a small towel, and just focus on unwinding.” Her favorite onsen spots are Sainokawara Open-Air Bath in Kusatsu Onsen and Takaragawa Onsen, each offering a unique atmosphere. “Gunma’s onsen are special because each one feels different,” she says. “Some are cozy and traditional, while others are surrounded by amazing natural scenery. You have everything from sulfur-rich waters in Kusatsu to the lush, riverside baths of Takaragawa. Each onsen has its own character, and the landscapes around them make you feel completely free from city life. I think that’s what I love most about bathing in Gunma’s onsen—it’s not just a bath; it’s an experience that feels authentic and peaceful, and there’s always something new to explore.”

How to get to Takaragawa

The first time Cory went to an onsen, he was with a friend who could show him what to do, so he wasn't nervous. "I had bathed in natural hot springs in National Parks in the US, but of course the onsen culture in Japan is a little different," says the American, who now calls Minakami home. "My advice for first-timers is to bring a hand towel for modesty and also for washing and drying off. Some smaller local onsen provide them." He recommends going to a large facility like Takaragawa Onsen for the first time, as they are used to international visitors and can help you enjoy your bathing experience. One of his favorite locations for bathing is Tanigawa Onsen. "The scenery is beautiful, and you can enjoy outdoor bathing there," says Cory. "I recommend Yuterume Tanigawa, a public onsen in the area, which has indoor and outdoor baths. It has a nice community atmosphere, and you can even buy fresh fruit from a farmstand at the onsen." Sanazawa Terrace near Jomo-Kogen Station in Minakami Onsen is another favorite. "They also have a sauna, a cafe, and even a coworking space, so you can easily spend a whole day there," he says. "Many of the onsen areas in Gunma are surrounded by beautiful scenery. They aren’t crowded, and there are more tattoo-friendly onsen than you find in major cities. One of my favorite ways to unwind is to soak in an outdoor onsen when it’s snowing, and that’s something you can do in Gunma."

How to get to Minakami

Visiting an onsen is a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, but for first-timers, it can feel a bit unfamiliar. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your soak. Before stepping into the onsen, shower thoroughly and rinse your body. Most onsen provide shower stations with soap and shampoo. If the bath is particularly hot, use a provided bucket or ladle to pour warm onsen water over your body. Start with your feet and hands, then gradually move to your torso to help your body adjust to the temperature. When entering the onsen, submerge your body halfway at first. This helps your circulation adjust to the heat and prevents dizziness. On your first dip, limit your soak to about 5–10 minutes, especially if the water is very hot. After resting outside the bath for a bit, you can return for another session. If you feel lightheaded or too warm, step out and cool off. Temperatures vary between baths at different onsen areas and facilities, so you are sure to find a bath that suits you.

Awaseyu is a traditional Japanese bathing practice of taking a series of baths, each warmer than the last. Otakinoyu in Kusatsu Onsen is famous for this style of bathing, which is rare to find in Japan. With temperatures ranging from a mild 38°C to a steamy 46°C, this gradual adjustment helps bathers acclimate to the high temperature and acidity of the hot spring water. At some locations such as Shima Onsen and Ikaho Onsen, there is spring water designated for drinking, which is often rich in minerals. Drinking it in moderation is said to support digestion and stimulate the appetite. Be sure to only consume water from official sources marked as safe for drinking.

After bathing, cool down gradually. Allow your body to cool naturally rather than rinsing off with cold water immediately after bathing, to help your circulation and heart rate return to a normal state, and avoid dizzyness. Drink plenty of water or other cool drinks to replenish fluids after sweating in the bath. Plan some downtime to make the most of the onsen’s relaxing effects, whether that’s enjoying a quiet meal, relaxing in the rest area, or taking a short nap. Read more about how to enjoy Gunma's onsen here.