The Secret of Japan’s Hot Springs—Why Onsen Are So Special

One of the most relaxing and exciting things to do in Japan is to visit a hot spring, known as “onsen” (おんせん) in Japanese. People from all over the world travel to Japan to enjoy these naturally heated baths, which are not only comforting but also believed to be good for health. Bathing in mineral-rich hot spring water is thought to help with circulation, skin conditions, and even stress.

What Makes an Onsen Special?

In Japan, taking a bath in an onsen is more than just getting clean — it’s a chance to slow down, connect with nature, and feel refreshed. Japanese people love visiting hot springs all year round, including winter. Imagine soaking in warm water while snow gently falls around you — sounds dreamy, right?

Rotenburo: Outdoor Hot Springs

An outdoor hot spring is called a “rotenburo” (露天風呂) in Japanese. These are usually surrounded by forests, mountains, or rivers, making the experience peaceful and scenic. Many people say rotenburo helps melt away stress while you enjoy the fresh air and natural views.

One of the most famous hot spring areas in Japan is Beppu Onsen, located in Ōita Prefecture on the southern island of Kyushu. This area is known for its variety of baths, including sand baths, steam baths, and mud baths!

Learning About Japanese Culture with Dinolingo

For kids learning Japanese, discovering words like onsen and rotenburo is a fun way to explore Japanese culture. Through Dinolingo’s Japanese lessons, children can learn vocabulary related to daily life, nature, and traditional experiences like hot springs. With interactive games, colorful videos, and stories, Dinolingo helps kids absorb new words while connecting them to exciting real-world topics.

Visiting an onsen is more than a bath, it’s an experience full of peace, nature, and tradition. By learning about onsens, children also learn how Japanese people value balance and well-being, one warm soak at a time.