Onsen | Hot springs

There are a lot of onsen in the local vicinity and so this is just a selection that we have been to and you may wish to check out. It’s common to take a towel with you (including a small towel for washing/ modesty), and your own toiletries although you can rent them and most onsen provide standard soap, shampoo etc.

Gunma is often referred to as onsen heaven by the Japanese and some of the most iconic onsens in Japan are within a 30-60min radius from the Villa.

These iconic onsen are often within ryokan (guesthouses) but allow guests during the day to use their baths. Check with the onsen but typically last entry is around 2-3pm. As many Japanese would do, make a day of it and book for lunch - arrive early, bathe, eat lunch, rest, bathe again, sleep, return home utterly refreshed.

Hoshi onsen, a 140 year old national registered cultural treasure located around 25mins drive just beyond Sarugakyo. The main bathing hall is mixed, however a separate bath for women is available

Kaikake onsen, has a 700 year history as an onsen located deep in snow country around 55mins drive between Naeba and Yuzawa. A stunning location where you may just see snow monkeys while you bathe.

Actually one of the great pleasures of Japan is experiencing onsen like the locals do. There are many local onsen in the area and many people, especially elderly visit daily.

A word of warning, the locals often like it hot. Real hot. Whilst you may struggle initially in waters that feel scalding, the feeling afterwards is on another level. And once you’ve enjoyed it, there’s no going back…