8 Mixed-Gender Hot Springs Near Tokyo

Experience this Japanese tradition before it slips away.

The Japanese have perfected the art of onsen, or hot spring baths, for centuries. Traditionally, men and women would bathe together in the same facility, but these days the baths are segregated by gender.

Today, konyoku (mixed-gender onsen) are hard to find, with places like Tokyo having bans on such establishments. Experiencing this one-of-a-kind Japanese tradition before they disappear completely is highly recommended. Use this quick guide to find mixed-gender onsen in the central Kanto region. All of these make for a great weekend getaway from Tokyo.

8
Takaragawa Onsen

Gunma

Takaragawa Onsen sits alongside the Tone River, surrounded by greenery and beautiful stone. This hot spring is well known throughout Japan for being scenic year-round, with high traffic during the autumn season. With three outdoor baths for both genders and one secluded bath for women only, you can easily spend hours soaking in this outdoor oasis. This is one of our Top 10 Winter Hot Springs Destinations!

  • Minakami, where this onsen is located, is one of our Top 10 Japan Travel Destinations for 2020!
  • Cost for day-trippers: ¥1,500
  • Closest Station: Takaragawa Iriguchi Station
  • Minakami

7
Gorokaku

Gunma

Gorokaku is a ryokan (Japanese inn) located in the mountain city of Numata in Gunma Prefecture. This family-friendly facility has three outdoor baths. Handsome bamboo structures and rock formations surround the hot springs, making it a beautiful destination no matter the season.

6
Hotel Kojokaku

Gunma

A perfect destination for outdoor folk, Hotel Kojokaku is located in Gunma’s adventurous town of Minakami. Conveniently close to ski slopes and ample hiking trails, Hotel Kojokaku is a great place to relax after a long strenuous day. The open-air bath of this hotel is mixed-gender but there is a separate time reserved for just women.

 

5
Yumori Tanakaya

Tochigi

Yumori Tanakaya lies in Nasushiobara City in Tochigi Prefecture. This ryokan is only an hour away from Utsunomiya City, making it a quiet escape from the busy prefectural capital. Take the path down 300 stone steps to reach two outdoor baths nestled alongside a river. There are no high-rise buildings to obstruct the stunning view, resulting in a pure, tranquil atmosphere.

  • Cost for day trippers: ¥1,000
  • Closest Station: Shiobara-Oami Station
  • http://tnky.jp/
  • Please note tattoos are not allowed here and day trippers can only use the baths between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

4
Honke Bankyu

Tochigi

Honke Bankyu makes for a historical bathing experience having been established in 1573. For over 400 years, descendants of the Heike Dynasty have run the ryokan housing guests who seek to cure their illnesses through the hot spring’s water. Though there is only one outdoor mixed bath, Honke Bankyu offers a traditional, luxurious experience.

  • The bath is only open to guests staying at the ryokan. They do not allow day trippers.
  • Closest Station: Yunishigawaonsen Station. Take a taxi from the station.
  • https://www.bankyu.co.jp/english/

3
Motomachi Hama Hot Spring

Tokyo

Also known as Hama-no-yu, this outdoor mixed onsen is one of the most popular on the Izu Islands, which are technically part of Tokyo. Swimsuits are mandatory here—good news for those apprehensive about going full commando in front of the opposite sex. This is the perfect destination for less seasoned onsen goers. You’ll have to take a boat from Tokyo to get here, but the expansive view of the ocean makes it more than worth it.

2
Ashitsuki Onsen

Tokyo

Situated right next to the sea, Ashitsuki is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. This onsen is open 24 hours a day and offers a view of the sea and nearby harbor. Bathing suits are also required here, which makes it another great introductory hot spring for those who may be a bit shy.

1
Miyako Ryokan (Arakawamura)

Saitama

Located in Tokyo’s neighboring prefecture of Saitama, Miyako Ryokan is a fantastic place to escape the city’s busy streets and neon lights. This intimate mixed bath has a lower temperature than most onsen, clocking in at about 16°C (about 60°F). This makes it great for soaking with friends for hours on end.

Before you let your hair down and get ready to jump in the onsen, you better learn the do’s and don’ts of mixed-gender bathing.

More Trip-spiration

Ginzan Onsen

Mountain onsen village for luxury lovers or budget backpackers.

Where to Find Mixed Gender Onsen in Japan

Japan Sightseeing Essentials

Get out and explore

Best Off the Beaten Path Side Trips from Kyoto

10 Quiet Day Trips from Tokyo