By: Joshua Finley
Japan’s onsens have long been a cornerstone of its culture, offering visitors moments of restoration and connection to nature. For Sven Rubenbauer, globetrotter and co-founder of Boys on Vacation, the allure of these geothermal retreats became the centerpiece of a journey through the country’s most tranquil hidden hot springs. His story invites us to explore the lesser-known corners of Japan, where serenity, tradition, and natural beauty converge.
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Sven’s journey began in Wakayama Prefecture, along the sacred Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route. It was here that he discovered Yunomine Onsen, a village steeped in history and spirituality. At the heart of this retreat lies Tsuboyu, a one-person bath that has earned UNESCO World Heritage site status. For Sven, the experience was profoundly intimate—a chance to disconnect from the chaos of modern life and reconnect with the essence of Japan’s cultural heritage. Adding to the charm was a quirky local ritual: boiling eggs in the mineral-rich spring waters to create onsen tamago, a simple yet delightful snack that encapsulates the spirit of the region.
From Wakayama, Sven ventured into the Japanese Alps to visit Shirahone Onsen, a quiet retreat renowned for its milky-white waters. Set against the backdrop of snow-draped trees during winter, the outdoor baths provided a stark and soothing contrast to the crisp mountain air. Sven described the experience as transformative, likening the setting to a winter wonderland where nature and relaxation meld seamlessly. The unique properties of the spring’s mineral-rich waters further enhanced the restorative effect, embodying the simplicity and purity of Japan’s onsen culture.
Further north, deep within Akita Prefecture’s Towada-Hachimantai National Park, Sven found himself at Nyuto Onsen. This secluded cluster of traditional inns, each with its own natural spring, offered a nostalgic step back in time. At Tsurunoyu, an inn that has welcomed visitors since the Edo period, Sven marveled at the rustic architecture and the serene open-air baths surrounded by untouched forest. For him, the charm of Nyuto Onsen lay in its ability to harmonize history, nature, and quietude, creating a space that felt entirely removed from the modern world.
Sven’s journey concluded in Ginzan Onsen, a town celebrated for its old-world charm. By day, the streets brim with traditional architecture and the inviting allure of wooden facades. By night, the town transforms into a dreamlike scene, with lanterns casting a soft glow over the water. Sven found the evening atmosphere particularly enchanting, recommending a nighttime soak followed by a leisurely walk along the gas-lit pathways. This peaceful ambiance, he noted, was the perfect way to reflect on the journey and absorb the stillness that these hidden onsens offer.
Finding Serenity Beyond the Crowds
Sven’s journey through Japan’s hidden onsens reveals a side of the country that remains untouched by the rush of tourism. These destinations offer more than just warm, mineral-rich waters; they provide an opportunity to engage with ancient traditions, savor local customs, and reconnect with nature in its purest form.
As Sven himself puts it, “The quieter the onsen, the louder the peace.” His experiences remind us that sometimes, the most meaningful travel moments come from stepping off the beaten path and immersing oneself in the quiet beauty of the unknown.
Published by Zane L.
