Autumn in Japan is a magical season when leaves turn into shades of red, orange, and golden yellow.
One of the best ways to enjoy this beautiful scenery is by relaxing in an onsen (hot spring) surrounded by colorful autumn forests.
Here are some of the most beautiful onsens in Japan to experience during the autumn season.
Shuzenji Onsen
Located in Shizuoka Prefecture, Shuzenji Onsen is one of the oldest and most charming hot spring areas in the Izu region.
Surrounded by mountains, bamboo forests, and traditional ryokan, the area becomes especially beautiful when the maple leaves change colors.
Visitors can enjoy autumn scenery from open-air baths (rotenburo) at local ryokan, including views of peaceful rivers and colorful momiji trees.
Ikaho Onsen
Located in Gunma Prefecture, Ikaho Onsen is famous for its beautiful autumn atmosphere. Its iconic red Kajika Bridge becomes even more stunning when surrounded by orange and golden maple leaves.
From late October to early November, visitors can enjoy the colorful scenery, night illuminations, and relaxing baths such as Kogane-no-Yu and Shirogane-no-Yu.
Jozankei Onsen
Located in Hokkaido, Jozankei Onsen offers breathtaking autumn views surrounded by valleys, hills, and birch forests.
The colorful landscape can be enjoyed while walking, staying at a ryokan, or relaxing in an outdoor hot spring.
The best time to visit is usually from late September to mid-October, when the autumn leaves reach their peak.
Kinugawa Onsen
Located in Tochigi Prefecture near Nikko, Kinugawa Onsen is surrounded by rivers, valleys, and colorful forests.
The best experience comes from open-air baths overlooking the autumn landscape.
Visitors can also enjoy activities such as the Kinugawa River Cruise while admiring the seasonal scenery.
Gero Onsen
Gero Onsen in Gifu Prefecture is considered one of Japan’s top hot spring destinations.
During autumn, the surrounding mountains transform into a beautiful landscape of red, orange, and golden leaves.
Visitors can relax in outdoor baths along the Hida River, including the famous Gero Onsen Funsenchi, an open-air bath offering views of the surrounding nature.
Unazuki Onsen
Located near Kurobe Gorge in Toyama Prefecture, Unazuki Onsen is known for its stunning autumn views.
The maple and rowan trees around the valley create a spectacular display of seasonal colors.
The best time to visit is from late October to mid-November, when guests can enjoy outdoor baths with beautiful views of the autumn landscape.
Plan Your Autumn Onsen Trip in Japan
Enjoying Japan’s autumn scenery while relaxing in a hot spring is an unforgettable experience.
With a carefully planned itinerary, you can visit iconic onsen destinations such as Jozankei and Gero Onsen without the hassle of arranging everything yourself.
