Tokyo, known for its electric energy and vibrant culture, also hides peaceful sanctuaries where the city’s pulse slows to a soothing rhythm. These hidden onsen—traditional Japanese hot springs—are the perfect antidote to urban chaos. Whether you’re a local looking for a quiet retreat or a traveller in need of relaxation, our selection of the 12 Best Onsen in Tokyo is your guide to unwinding in the heart of the metropolis.
Our Selection of 12 Best Onsen in Tokyo
From luxurious spa havens to charming neighbourhood bathhouses, these spots are perfect for melting away stress and finding your moment of peace. Ready to uncover these tranquil escapes in Tokyo? Let’s explore these calming retreats that promise a refreshing break from the city’s fast-paced life.
1. Musashi Koyama Onsen Shimizuyu
Established in 1924, Musashi-Koyama Onsen Shimizu-yu beckons with its unique offerings of natural hot springs, including the famed Kuroyu (black water) and Kogane-yu (golden water). Nestled in Tokyo, this traditional public bath has a rich history of revitalisation and health benefits. Initially facing decline with the rise of private baths, the onsen found new life when its second-generation owner unearthed the therapeutic black-coloured spring in 1994, drawing triple the visitors. A decade later, the discovery of a golden spring enriched with iodine further enhanced its appeal.
Today, visitors can immerse themselves in these distinct waters known for their skin-moisturizing properties and healing capabilities. The amber-coloured Kuroyu, sourced 200 meters underground, is celebrated for its clarity and warmth, relieving fatigue and enhancing skin vitality. In addition to its therapeutic baths, Shimizu-yu boasts open-air jacuzzis, electric baths, and bedrock baths renowned for their anti-ageing and detoxifying benefits. A visit promises not just relaxation but a journey into the rejuvenating powers of Tokyo’s hidden hot springs.
Musashi Koyama Onsen Shimizuyu
Operating Hours: 12:00 pm – 12:00 am (Tuesday – Sunday)
Address: 3-9-1 Koyama, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-0062, Japan
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2. Spa LaQua
Nestled amidst the vibrant heart of Tokyo, Spa LaQua at Tokyo Dome defies urban bustle with its serene oasis of natural hot springs. Drawing from depths of 1,700 meters underground, the hot spring waters here are a testament to nature’s rejuvenating power in an unexpected urban setting. Divided into the Spa Zone and the Healing Baden Zone, Spa LaQua offers a luxurious escape. The Spa Zone features two open-air baths renowned for their sodium chloride content, known for its skin-moisturising properties and therapeutic benefits against muscle stiffness and cold sensitivity. Meanwhile, the Healing Baden Zone transports visitors to a tranquil Balinese resort ambience, complete with panoramic views of Tokyo Dome and its dazzling cityscape at night.
Sauna enthusiasts can indulge in four distinct experiences, including a medium-temperature sauna for total refreshment, a Finnish-style sauna combining medium heat with high humidity, and a stimulating mist sauna designed to awaken the senses. From carbonated baths to oxygen springs, Spa LaQua ensures a comprehensive wellness experience amidst Tokyo’s lively backdrop, inviting visitors to unwind and rejuvenate in the lap of natural luxury.
Spa LaQua
Operating Hours: 11:00 am – 09:00 am (the next day)
Address: 5-9F Tokyo Dome City LaQua, 1-1-1 Kasuga, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo 112-0003, Japan
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3. Mikokuyu Onsen
Embraced in the heart of Ryogoku, Tokyo’s sumo heartland, Mikokuyu Onsen beckons with its distinctive charm and rejuvenating waters. This compact onsen bath house spans five floors, each exuding its own unique ambience and therapeutic offerings. On the fourth floor, guests are greeted by a cave-like onsen and a tranquil lukewarm bath, perfect for unwinding after a bustling day in the city. Ascend to the fifth floor, where wide windows and a lofty ceiling create an airy, open atmosphere, complemented by a partially outdoor bath that offers a stunning view of the iconic Tokyo Skytree.
Mikokuyu also caters to those requiring special care with a welfare-type private family bath, featuring a deep hot spring bath infused with the soothing scent of cypress. Renovated in 2015 with Edo-style touches, including a stylish navy-blue noren adorned with a hot spring symbol, Mikokuyu invites visitors to indulge in eight baths, including natural hot spring baths straight from the source, massaging baths, and semi-open-air baths—all at the standard public bath fee.
Mikokuyu Onsen
Operating Hours: 03:30 pm – 02:00 am (Tuesday – Saturday), 03:00 pm – 12:00 am (Sundays), closed on Mondays
Address: 3-30-10 Ishiwara, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 130-0011, Japan
4. Toshimaen Niwa no Yu
Situated amidst Tokyo’s urban bustle, Toshimaen Niwa-No-Yu offers a serene retreat overlooking a sprawling Japanese garden—a true oasis of relaxation. Drawing mineral-rich waters from 1,445 meters underground, this onsen is renowned for its skin-nourishing properties and ability to promote blood circulation, leaving visitors with lasting warmth even after leaving the bath. The facilities at Toshimaen Niwa-No-Yu cater to every indulgence. Guests can unwind in an outdoor rock bath amidst the tranquil garden setting or luxuriate in the ne-yu bathtubs designed for ultimate relaxation. For a unique experience, try the micro-bubble baths, gentle on the skin like a jacuzzi but with softer bubbles, or soak in the rejuvenating carbonated water bath. A highlight is the one-person Shigaraki ware bathtub, showcasing traditional Japanese craftsmanship.
Beyond baths, Toshimaen Niwa-No-Yu offers a range of hydrotherapy options including a Bade pool for stretching and underwater massages, originated from Germany. Indulge further in steam saunas, hot tubs, and outdoor jacuzzis, or unwind in Finland-style saunas—all set against the backdrop of lush greenery and seasonal blooms. With a serene atmosphere enhanced by a policy restricting entry to pre-teens, Toshimaen Niwa-No-Yu ensures a peaceful escape where guests can rejuvenate minds, bodies, and souls. Whether enjoying a quiet moment by the garden or savouring a massage in the relaxation area, this onsen promises the perfect sanctuary for “me time” in Tokyo.
Toshimaen Niwa no Yu
Operating Hours: 10:00 am – 11:00 pm (Monday – Sunday)
Address: 3-25-1 Koyama, Nerima-ku, Tokyo 176-8531, Japan
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5. Oyata Onsen Myoujin no Yu
Located in Tokyo’s tranquil Adachi Ward, Oyata Onsen Myoujin no Yu offers a rejuvenating escape steeped in natural luxury. This spacious hot spring sanctuary is renowned for its use of natural cypress wood in all its bathtubs, imparting a touch of elegance to every soak. The hot spring water here, known as Netsu no Yu for its strong salt content and natural sodium chloride, boasts therapeutic benefits that linger long after you leave the bath. Ideal for improving circulation and soothing skin ailments like burns and wounds, its mineral-rich composition promises a holistic wellness experience.
The facility features an array of amenities, including open-air baths nestled amidst scenic surroundings, a mist sauna for sensory invigoration, and a dry sauna for deep relaxation. After rejuvenating in the baths, guests can indulge in a diverse culinary experience at the onsite restaurant, offering everything from traditional set menus to izakaya favourites and delectable desserts. Complete your visit with a massage or a grooming session at the barber shop, ensuring you depart fully revitalised from this haven of tranquillity in northern Tokyo.
Oyata Onsen Myoujin no Yu
Operating Hours: 10:00 am – 11:00 pm (Monday – Sunday)
Address: 1-18-12 Oyata, Adachi-ku, Tokyo 120-0001, Japan
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6. Maenohara Onsen Saya no Yudokoro
Nestled in a quiet residential enclave of Tokyo, Maenohara Onsen Saya no Yudokoro invites guests into a serene oasis adorned with a stunning garden. Originally a private residence and meticulously landscaped garden assembled with renowned stones from across Japan, this day-use hot spring facility exudes historical charm and natural beauty. Established from a visionary entrepreneur’s estate completed in 1946, the transformation into an onsen retreat in 1996 has preserved its original allure while offering modern comforts.
The natural hot spring water, a soft olive-green hue, flows directly from the source without additives, boasting a sodium chloride base and slight alkalinity ideal for skin nourishment and warmth retention. Maenohara Onsen features a variety of bathing experiences, including tranquil open-air baths amidst the meticulously manicured garden, soothing indoor baths, and rejuvenating sauna sessions. Guests can also indulge in the therapeutic benefits of a bedrock bath, complementing their journey of relaxation and rejuvenation.
Maenohara Onsen Saya no Yudokoro
Operating Hours: 10:00 am – 01:00 am (Monday – Sunday)
Address: 3-41-1 Maenocho, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 174-0063, Japan
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7. Tokyo Somei Onsen Sakura
Located in the enchanting birthplace of Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms, Tokyo Somei Onsen Sakura offers a luxurious retreat blending modern Japanese aesthetics with natural hot spring serenity. This onsen is celebrated for its exceptional heat and moisture retention, drawing crystal-clear water from a depth of 1,800 meters—a rarity in Tokyo’s landscape of predominantly dark hot springs. The sodium iodide composition of the water lends a slightly alkaline quality, renowned for its skin-smoothing benefits and abundance of natural minerals. As the water fills the bathtubs, it takes on a golden glow, adding to the allure of the bathing experience.
While Tokyo Somei Onsen Sakura is particularly picturesque during cherry blossom season, when Somei Yoshino trees bloom in splendour, its year-round appeal lies in its meticulous filtration process that enhances the purity of its sodium chloride-rich waters. Whether seeking seasonal beauty or timeless relaxation, this onsen promises a tranquil escape in the heart of Tokyo.
Tokyo Somei Onsen Sakura
Operating Hours: 10:00 am – 11:00 pm (Monday – Sunday)
Address: 5-4-24 Komagome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 170-0003, Japan
Visit Them Via: Website (Japanese) | Website (English)
8. Thermae-Yu
Situated in the bustling heart of Shinjuku’s Kabukicho district, Thermae-Yu stands as one of Tokyo’s largest day-use hot spring complexes, offering a lavish retreat amid urban hustle. This expansive facility is designed for ultimate relaxation, providing bath towels and dressing gowns for convenient visits. The highlight of Thermae-Yu is its natural hot spring water, transported daily from Nakaizu to fill the rejuvenating open-air bath. Guests can indulge in unique bathing experiences, including one of Kanto’s largest highly concentrated carbonate baths, a neutral electrolysed water bath, and a Nordic coral light-skin lotion bath. Additional amenities include a soothing bedrock bath, spa treatments, and massage facilities, ensuring comprehensive rejuvenation.
Inspired by the popular Thermae Romae series, Thermae-Yu operates 22 hours a day, welcoming visitors with its stone saunas, beauty salon, scrub treatments, and a lounge complete with a café, bar, and diverse dining options. Whether unwinding in the baths or enjoying cocktails with city views, Thermae-Yu offers the perfect urban oasis to refresh and unwind from the stresses of daily life in Tokyo.
Thermae-Yu
Operating Hours: 11:00 am – 09:00 am (Monday – Sunday)
Address: 1-1-2 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0021, Japan
9. Onsen Ryokan Yuen Shinjuku
Tucked amidst the bustling skyscrapers of Shinjuku, ONSEN RYOKAN Yuen Shinjuku offers a modern retreat infused with the tranquil essence of Hakone’s renowned hot springs. Established in 2019, this hotel seamlessly blends traditional Japanese hospitality with contemporary comforts. Stepping into Yuen Shinjuku feels like discovering an oasis amid office buildings, where guests can unwind in hot spring waters sourced directly from Hakone. The highlight is the open-air bath on the 18th floor, providing panoramic views of Shinjuku while soaking in alkaline spring water known for its skin-nourishing properties.
Guest rooms are designed to evoke a sense of Japanese tradition, featuring raised floors that invite guests to relax in a tatami-matted space. Despite modern amenities like beds, the atmosphere remains authentically Japanese, offering a serene escape from the city’s hustle. Yuen Shinjuku epitomises a harmonious blend of old and new, offering a serene haven where guests can rejuvenate minds, bodies, and souls in the heart of Tokyo.
Onsen Ryokan Yuen Shinjuku
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Address: 5-3-18 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan
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10. Kokubisui Onsen Take no Yu
Kokubisui Onsen Take no Yu, established in 1913 in Azabu, Tokyo, is a historic hot spring renowned for its unique coffee-coloured waters. This radium hot spring offers a rejuvenating experience at an affordable price, making it a beloved destination for both locals and visitors. The distinct black water of Take no Yu is rich in ancient plant-derived minerals, providing numerous health benefits such as relief from exhaustion, poor circulation, stiff shoulders, and back pain. Guests can also enjoy a high-temperature sauna for an extra fee, enhancing the overall relaxation experience.
An interesting feature of Take no Yu is that the clear hot or cold water from the taps is not ordinary tap water but pure groundwater. This makes it ideal for those with sensitive skin and hair, as it avoids the drying effects of chlorinated water. Some visitors even take home the black hot spring water to use as a facial treatment. Nestled within an apartment complex, Kokubisui Onsen Take no Yu offers a serene retreat in the heart of the city, combining traditional healing properties with modern conveniences. Whether you’re seeking relief from everyday stresses or a unique bathing experience, this onsen provides a timeless escape.
Kokubisui Onsen Take no Yu
Operating Hours: 03:30 pm – 11:30 pm (Closed on Friday)
Address: 1-15-12 Minami Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0047, Japan
Visit Them Via: Website
11. Heiwajima Natural Hot Spring
Heiwajima Natural Hot Spring, drawing an impressive 150 tons of water daily from depths of 2,000 meters underground, stands as one of Tokyo’s largest natural hot spring facilities. Renowned for its high salt content, the sodium chloride-rich water offers a moisturising effect that leaves skin feeling smooth and supple. This expansive onsen complex features a diverse array of baths catering to every preference. Guests can indulge in a high-concentration carbonated spring, ideal for enhancing metabolism and circulation while enjoying sports on a large-screen TV. Alternatively, unwind in a Japanese-style hot stone spa, experiencing the therapeutic benefits of various stones in a serene atmosphere.
Beyond the baths, Heiwajima offers a comprehensive relaxation experience. Guests can recline in TV-equipped chairs in the relaxation lounge or bask in the sun on the rooftop deck. A dedicated reading area stocked with over 10,000 comic books provides a unique retreat within the bustling city. Heiwajima Natural Hot Spring invites visitors to enjoy a resort-like atmosphere in the heart of Tokyo, where the healing powers of natural hot springs combine with modern comforts for a truly rejuvenating experience.
Heiwajima Natural Hot Spring
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Address: Big Fan Heiwajima 2F, 1-1-1 Heiwajima, Ota-ku, Tokyo 143-0006, Japan
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12. Togoshi Ginza Onsen
Togoshi Ginza Onsen is a modern bathhouse with a rich history, originally known as Naka no Yu, a beloved sento that operated for 40 years before closing in 2006. Reborn as Togoshi Ginza Onsen, this contemporary facility now features a variety of baths, including those supplied with authentic hot spring water, while maintaining elements of its traditional roots. Visitors can enjoy a unique blend of retro and modern aesthetics at this onsen. One side of the bathhouse showcases a classic mural of Mt. Fuji, painted by veteran sento artist Morio Nakajima, evoking a nostalgic atmosphere. The other side features a more modern interpretation of the iconic peak, reflecting the onsen’s commitment to merging old and new.
In addition to the hot spring baths, Togoshi Ginza Onsen offers typical sento-esque tubs like the electrifying denki-buro, providing a diverse bathing experience. This modernised bathhouse stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional Japanese bathing culture, offering a serene and rejuvenating escape in the heart of Tokyo’s bustling cityscape. Whether you’re a long-time sento enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Togoshi Ginza Onsen invites you to unwind and experience the best of both worlds.
Togoshi Ginza Onsen
Operating Hours: 03:00 pm – 01:00 am (Monday – Thursday), 08:00 am – 12:00 pm, 03:00 pm – 01:00 am (Saturday – Sunday, and Holidays), Closed on Fridays
Address: 2-1-6 Togoshi, Shinagawa, Tokyo, Japan
Visit Them Via: Website
Conclusion
Tokyo’s onsen scene offers a diverse and rejuvenating escape from the bustling city life. From historic bathhouses to modern spa facilities, each onsen on this list provides a unique experience, blending traditional Japanese bathing culture with contemporary amenities. Whether you’re seeking the therapeutic benefits of mineral-rich waters or simply a tranquil retreat, these hidden gems promise to leave you refreshed and revitalised. As you explore these 12 best onsen in Tokyo, you’ll discover not just relaxation, but a deeper connection to the serene beauty and timeless traditions of Japan. Indulge, unwind, and enjoy the ultimate in relaxation.