Japan's Hidden Hot Springs: Complete Guide to Secret Onsen (Hitou)

Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, quietly nestled in deep mountains and valleys stand solitary inns. While access is never easy, these hidden hot spring destinations offer truly special experiences—these are called "hitou" (secret hot springs).

Japan has numerous hot springs, but among them, those called "hitou" possess unique charm. This article covers everything from the definition of hitou to introducing Japan's three great secret hot springs, and a carefully selected collection of 20 recommended hitou by hot spring enthusiasts.

What Are Hitou: Definition and Appeal

Definition of Hitou

While there's no clear official definition for "hitou," hot springs with the following characteristics are generally referred to as such:

Difficult Access: Located in deep mountains or remote areas, hard to reach by public transportation

Small Scale: Not heavily developed for tourism, centered around small-scale accommodations

Rich Natural Environment: Surrounded by abundant natural environment, offering bathing experiences integrated with nature

Source Quality: Commitment to hot spring quality, such as free-flowing springs

Few People: Quiet environment not crowded with tourists

The widespread use of the term "hitou" is largely attributed to the influence of TV programs like "Journey to Secret Hot Springs" and the "Secret Hot Spring Guide" series supervised by hot spring writer Matsuda Tadanori.

Appeal of Hitou

The greatest appeal of hitou lies in their "extraordinary nature." Specifically, they offer the following attractions:

1. Luxury of Silence and Solitude

• Enjoy hot springs in quiet environments with few people
• Sometimes possible to bathe in private
• Distance from city noise allows for mental relaxation

2. Unity with Nature

• Most hitou are located in beautiful natural settings
• Views of valleys and mountains from open-air baths
• Bathing experiences while feeling the four seasons

3. Authentic Hot Spring Experience

• Many offer free-flowing springs
• Minimal processing like dilution or heating, preserving natural hot spring character
• Strong sense of unique spring qualities

4. Sense of Travel Achievement

• Special feeling earned by overcoming difficult access
• Exclusive experience of "only those who came here know"
• Topic of conversation among hot spring enthusiasts

Difference Between Hitou and Meitou: What Makes Secret Hot Springs Special

Hitou and meitou (famous hot springs) are often confused, but their essence differs. Here we clarify the differences between both and explore the special charm that hitou possess.

Definitional Differences Between Hitou and Meitou

Characteristics of Meitou:

• Excellence of spring quality (high therapeutic effects)
• High historical evaluation
• High recognition and awareness
• Development as hot spring towns
• Development as tourist destinations

Characteristics of Hitou:

• Difficult access
• Hidden existence known to few
• Harmony with natural environment
• Small-scale, quiet atmosphere
• Limited commercial development

In other words, while "meitou" emphasize "quality of the hot springs themselves" such as spring quality and historical evaluation, "hitou" emphasize "quality of the hot spring experience" and "special feeling of the location."

Overlap Between Hitou and Meitou

Hitou and meitou are not necessarily opposing concepts, and hot springs possessing both characteristics exist. For example, hot springs with excellent spring quality (meitou characteristics) but difficult access and quiet environments (hitou characteristics).

Examples Possessing Both Characteristics:

• Tsurunoyu at Nyuto Onsen-kyo (Akita Prefecture)
• Fujishichi Onsen (Iwate Prefecture)
• Hirayu Otaki Onsen (Gifu Prefecture)

These are "meitou" with excellent spring quality while also being evaluated as "hitou" due to difficult access and environment.

Special Value Provided by Hitou

Hitou are particularly beloved by hot spring fans because they provide the following special values:

Rarity: Rare experiences not visited by many people Authenticity: Original hot spring appearance not commercialized Narrative: "Travel story" including struggles to reach destination Sense of Discovery: Joy of finding your own hidden famous hot spring Sense of Belonging: Identity as a hot spring connoisseur who knows secret springs

Japan's Three Great Secret Hot Springs: Introduction to Representative Hitou

While we often hear about "Japan's Three Great Secret Hot Springs," this is not officially designated and several theories exist. Here we introduce the three hot springs most commonly called "Japan's Three Great Secret Hot Springs."

1. Tsurunoyu Onsen at Nyuto Onsen-kyo, Akita Prefecture

Basic Information:

• Location: 2-1 Tazawako Komagatake, Senboku City, Akita Prefecture
• Spring Quality: Sodium chloride/sulfate spring
• Effects: Rheumatism, neuralgia, skin diseases, etc.
• Access: About 50 minutes by bus from JR Tazawako Station, shuttle service from inn in winter (reservation required)

Features:

• Characteristic main building with thatched roof over 300 years old
• Mixed-gender open-air bath "Tsurunoyu" represents Japan's secret hot spring scenery
• Surrounded by mountains, enjoy four seasons of nature
• Winter open-air baths surrounded by snow are exceptional

Recommended Season: Year-round (especially winter snow scenery is popular)

2. Fujishichi Onsen, Iwate Prefecture

Basic Information:

• Location: 1-590-4 Matsuo Yoriki, Hachimantai City, Iwate Prefecture
• Spring Quality: Sulfur spring
• Effects: Neuralgia, muscle pain, joint pain, skin diseases, etc.
• Access: About 90 minutes by car from JR Morioka Station, closed in winter (generally early December to late April)

Features:

• Also called "Japan's number one secret hot spring"
• Characteristic vivid blue-white water
• Authentic sulfur spring with intense sulfur smell
• High source temperature, enjoy free-flowing baths

Recommended Season: Fresh green early summer and autumn foliage

3. Hoshi Onsen Choju-kan, Gunma Prefecture

Basic Information:

• Location: 650 Nagai, Minakami-machi, Tone-gun, Gunma Prefecture
• Spring Quality: Calcium/sodium sulfate/bicarbonate spring
• Effects: Neuralgia, muscle pain, joint pain, sensitivity to cold, etc.
• Access: About 40 minutes by car from JR Jomokogen Station

Features:

• Historic hot spring inn established in 1875
• Famous for "utase-yu" (cascade bath), effective for stiff shoulders and back pain
• Three-story wooden main building along mountain stream is registered tangible cultural property
• Local mountain vegetables and river fish cuisine also highly rated

Recommended Season: Fresh green May-June, autumn foliage October

Other "Japan's Three Great Secret Hot Springs" Theories

Various other theories exist for "Japan's Three Great Secret Hot Springs," sometimes including:

• Takayu Onsen Adachiya Ryokan, Fukushima Prefecture: Sulfur spring at foot of Azuma mountain range
• Osawa Onsen, Niigata Prefecture: Solitary inn in secluded Akiyama-go
• Ohira Onsen Taki-no-yu, Yamagata Prefecture: Secret spring at foot of Mt. Gassan
• Hirayu Otaki Onsen, Gifu Prefecture: Wild hot spring behind waterfall deep in Hida mountains

All combine excellent spring quality with difficult access, typical "hitou" characteristics.

Points for Choosing Hitou: What Criteria to Use

When visiting hitou, what points should you focus on for selection? Here we introduce key points for choosing secret hot springs.

1. Access

While "difficult access" is important in defining hitou, if too difficult it becomes hard to plan trips. Choose hitou matching your transportation means and physical capability.

Classification from Access Perspective:

• Hitou requiring car approach: Most common type
• Hitou reachable by public transport + walking: For those without cars
• Hitou requiring mountain climbing or trekking: For those seeking authentic secret spring experience
• Seasonal hitou: Those closed in winter or requiring snow road driving

2. Spring Quality and Effects

Hitou also have various spring qualities, each with different therapeutic effects. Choose according to your purpose and preferences.

Characteristics by Spring Type and Hitou Examples:

• Sulfur springs: Distinctive aroma and sterilizing action (examples: Fujishichi Onsen, Tamagawa Onsen)
• Chloride springs: High heat retention, effective for sensitivity to cold (example: Tsurunoyu Onsen)
• Bicarbonate springs: Beauty effects, "beauty hot springs" (example: Shirahone Onsen)
• Acidic springs: Strong sterilizing action (example: Tamagawa Onsen)

3. Inn Atmosphere and Style

Hitou accommodations range from historic farmhouse-style inns to simple lodges with minimal facilities. Choose according to your preferred style.

Accommodation Styles:

• Historic farmhouse/thatched roof inns: Traditional appearance with historical atmosphere
• Simple mountain lodge style: Experience mountain life with minimal facilities
• Self-service type: Long-term stay oriented with cooking facilities
• Modern amenities: For those seeking certain comfort despite being hitou

4. Season and Scenery

Hitou charm lies in experiences integrated with surrounding natural environment. Completely different scenery and experiences await depending on visiting season.

Seasonal Appeal:

• Spring: Increased flow from snowmelt, beautiful fresh greenery
• Summer: Seeking coolness at highland hitou, pleasant riverside open-air baths
• Autumn: Combination of autumn foliage viewing and hot springs, crisp air
• Winter: Joy of snow-viewing baths, difficult access but special feeling

5. Mixed-Gender or Not

Many hitou have mixed-gender baths, which some find appealing while others feel resistance. Check in advance.

Mixed-Gender Options:

• Completely mixed-gender: All baths are mixed-gender
• Partially mixed-gender: Indoor and outdoor baths separated
• Time-divided: Men's and women's baths alternate by time
• Private baths available: Easy for families and couples

6. Budget

Hitou prices vary greatly depending on facility scale and services provided.

Budget-Based Selection:

• Affordable hitou: Accommodation-only or self-catering facilities
• Mid-range hitou: Standard inns with two meals included
• Luxury hitou: Facilities with high-quality cuisine and amenities

Regional Selection: 20 Carefully Chosen Hitou

From here, we introduce 20 carefully selected hitou from across the nation by region. These are secret hot springs worth visiting that receive high evaluation from hot spring enthusiasts.

Hokkaido & Tohoku Secret Hot Springs

1. Matsu-no-yu Onsen, Hokkaido

• Location: Kussharo, Teshikaga-cho, Kawakamii-gun, Hokkaido
• Spring Quality: Sodium chloride spring
• Features: Secret spring on Lake Kussharo shore with only one inn
• Highlight: View from open-air bath facing the lake

2. Aoni Onsen, Aomori Prefecture

• Location: Shimo-hamamatsu, Matsugami, Fukaura-machi, Nishitsugaru-gun, Aomori
• Spring Quality: Sodium sulfate/chloride spring
• Features: Known as "lamp inn" - secret spring without electricity
• Highlight: Fantastic nighttime atmosphere with only lamp lighting

3. Tawaraike Onsen, Akita Prefecture

• Location: Hachimantai, Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture
• Spring Quality: Sulfur spring
• Features: Solitary inn beside mountain pond
• Highlight: Cool even in midsummer, especially beautiful during autumn foliage

4. Ohira Onsen Taki-no-yu, Yamagata Prefecture

• Location: Shizu, Nishikawa-machi, Nishimurayama-gun, Yamagata Prefecture
• Spring Quality: Sodium/calcium chloride/sulfate spring
• Features: Ancient spring near Mt. Gassan climbing entrance
• Highlight: Atmospheric thatched roof building and prized mountain vegetable cuisine

Kanto & Koshinetsu Secret Hot Springs

5. Shiritaki Onsen Kawa-no-yu, Gunma Prefecture

• Location: Fujiwara, Minakami-machi, Tone-gun, Gunma Prefecture
• Spring Quality: Simple spring
• Features: Wild open-air bath built to soak in river
• Highlight: Bathing while enjoying four seasons valley beauty

6. Kiriake Onsen, Akiyama-go, Niigata Prefecture

• Location: Akinari, Tsunan-machi, Nakauonuma-gun, Niigata Prefecture
• Spring Quality: Alkaline simple spring
• Features: Secret spring along mountain stream in secluded Akiyama-go
• Highlight: Valley view from free-flowing open-air bath

7. Shirahone Onsen Awa-no-yu, Nagano Prefecture

• Location: Azumi Shirahone, Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture
• Spring Quality: Sulfur-calcium sulfate/bicarbonate spring
• Features: Ancient famous spring with characteristic white hot spring flowers
• Highlight: Mystical white hot spring flowers and mountain valley tranquility

8. Kaniyu Onsen, Tochigi Prefecture

• Location: Kawamata, Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture
• Spring Quality: Sulfate spring
• Features: Solitary inn deep in Oku-Kinugawa mountains
• Highlight: Wild open-air bath with 100% free-flowing spring

Chubu & Hokuriku Secret Hot Springs

9. Omaki Onsen, Toyama Prefecture

• Location: Sakakami, Toga-mura, Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture
• Spring Quality: Simple spring
• Features: Solitary inn deep in Gokayama mountains
• Highlight: Four seasons mountain village scenery and cuisine using local ingredients

10. Shinhotaka Onsen Shinzan-so, Gifu Prefecture

• Location: Kamisaka, Okuhida Onsen-go, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture
• Spring Quality: Simple alkaline spring
• Features: Secret spring at foot of Northern Alps with Hotaka mountain range view
• Highlight: Spectacular view from open-air bath with giant rocks

11. Kaga Hakusan Shobu Onsen, Ishikawa Prefecture

• Location: Kuwajima, Hakusan City, Ishikawa Prefecture
• Spring Quality: Bicarbonate spring
• Features: Mountain secret spring within Hakusan National Park
• Highlight: Beech forest beauty in fresh green season and quality hot spring

12. Heike-daira Onsen, Fukui Prefecture

• Location: Kamiuchinami, Ono City, Fukui Prefecture
• Spring Quality: Simple spring
• Features: Highland secret spring at 1,100m elevation within Hakusan National Park
• Highlight: Historic spring with Heike refugee legends

Kansai, Chugoku & Shikoku Secret Hot Springs

13. Yunoyama Onsen Shimizu-ya, Mie Prefecture

• Location: Yunoyama Onsen, Komono-cho, Mie-gun, Mie Prefecture
• Spring Quality: Sulfur-sodium chloride spring
• Features: Historic hot spring inn at foot of Mt. Gozaisho
• Highlight: Atmospheric building surrounded by 300-year-old giant cedars

14. Takeya Onsen, Hyogo Prefecture

• Location: Takeya, Yabu City, Hyogo Prefecture
• Spring Quality: Calcium bicarbonate/sulfate spring
• Features: Small hot spring area in Tajima mountain region
• Highlight: Historic hot spring cure atmosphere and cuisine using regional ingredients

15. Iwai Onsen Iwai-ya, Tottori Prefecture

• Location: Iwai, Iwami-cho, Iwami-gun, Tottori Prefecture
• Spring Quality: Sodium sulfate/chloride spring
• Features: Historic spring said to be oldest in San'in region
• Highlight: Atmospheric wooden architecture retaining Edo period charm

16. Yunotsu Onsen Yakushi-yu, Shimane Prefecture

• Location: Yunotsu, Yunotsu-cho, Oda City, Shimane Prefecture
• Spring Quality: Iron-sodium chloride spring
• Features: Historic spring related to World Heritage "Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine"
• Highlight: Townscape retaining Edo period mining town atmosphere

Kyushu & Okinawa Secret Hot Springs

17. Ukenokuchi Onsen, Oita Prefecture

• Location: Tano, Kokonoe-machi, Kusu-gun, Oita Prefecture
• Spring Quality: Simple spring
• Features: Secret spring along Kyusui-kei valley
• Highlight: Open-air bath listening to mountain stream murmuring

18. Kamitsuka Onsen, Kumamoto Prefecture

• Location: Ozato, Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture
• Spring Quality: Bicarbonate spring
• Features: Solitary inn on Aso outer rim mountainside
• Highlight: Open-air bath with grand Aso scenery view

19. Shio Onsen, Kagoshima Prefecture

• Location: Shio, Satsuma-cho, Satsuma-gun, Kagoshima Prefecture
• Spring Quality: Sodium sulfate/chloride spring
• Features: Quiet hot spring area at foot of Mt. Shio
• Highlight: Open-air bath with sense of openness and cuisine using local ingredients

20. Kurinodake Onsen Nanshu-kan, Miyazaki Prefecture

• Location: Kurino, Ebino City, Miyazaki Prefecture
• Spring Quality: Carbonic acid spring
• Features: Mountain valley spring in Kirishima mountain system
• Highlight: History of Saigo Takamori's visit and quality carbonic acid spring

Situational Recommendations for Secret Hot Springs

Hitou charm changes depending on visiting season and situation. Here we introduce secret hot springs recommended for specific situations.

Secret Hot Springs for Snow-Viewing Baths

Winter's greatest pleasure is bathing in hot springs while viewing snow scenery. The following hitou are especially recommended:

Nyuto Onsen-kyo Taeno-yu (Akita Prefecture)

• Pure white snow-surrounded secret spring beauty
• "Snow monster" scenery with branches drooping from snow weight
• Winter-limited snow-viewing open-air baths

Nigori-gawa Onsen Ryokan Ontake (Gifu Prefecture)

• Japan's highest elevation hot spring area at 1,800m
• Open-air bath view surrounded by snow walls
• Winter access by snow vehicle also enjoyable

Recommended Secret Hot Springs for Solo Travel

For those considering solo hot spring travel, the following hitou are recommended:

Kuronagi Onsen (Toyama Prefecture)

• Solo travel plans available, affordable accommodation
• Quiet environment surrounded by mountains for self-reflection time
• Cooking facilities available, long-term stays possible

Akakura Onsen Mori-no-yu Hotel (Niigata Prefecture)

• Warm atmosphere easily accessible for solo travelers
• Hideaway space comfortable even for small groups
• Nearby activities like mountain climbing and autumn foliage viewing enjoyable alone

Secret Hot Springs for Couples

Perfect hitou for spending special time with loved ones:

Yachi Onsen (Yamagata Prefecture)

• Private baths available for exclusive couple time
• Quiet environment without concern for surroundings
• Optimal environment for stargazing

Hirayu Otaki Onsen (Gifu Prefecture)

• Wild open-air bath behind powerful waterfall
• Adventure experience to share as couple
• Perfect for creating special memories in nature

Day-Trip Enjoyable Secret Hot Springs

For those wanting hitou experience without overnight stays, secret hot springs allowing day-trip bathing:

Oku-Kinugawa Onsen-go Kaniyu (Tochigi Prefecture)

• Day-trip bathing plans available
• Valley beauty enjoyable from open-air baths
• Perfect for Kanto region day-trip secret spring drives

Yunomine Onsen Tsubo-yu (Wakayama Prefecture)

• Historic spring along World Heritage "Kumano Kodo"
• Said to be Japan's oldest hot spring
• Small stone bathing area with private bathing possible

Important Points and Etiquette When Visiting Secret Hot Springs

When visiting hitou, there are more important points and etiquette than regular hot springs. Consideration for natural environment and small-scale facilities is especially important.

Importance of Advance Research and Preparation

1. Access Information Confirmation

• Road conditions and public transportation operating status
• Seasonal closure periods
• Location of gas stations and convenience stores en route

2. Facility Information Confirmation

• Operating hours and regular holidays
• Day-trip bathing availability
• Reservation necessity (advance reservations essential for popular hitou)

3. Necessary Items

• Equipment needed for hitou approach (trekking shoes, etc.)
• Small facilities may lack amenities (bath towels, toiletries, etc.)
• Maps or offline-compatible navigation (poor communication environment in mountains)

Consideration for Natural Environment

1. Taking Garbage with You

• Garbage disposal facilities not necessarily available around hitou
• Maintain "more beautiful than when you arrived"

2. Wild Animal Caution

• Possibility of encountering bears, wild boars, etc. in mountain hitou
• Never feed animals
• Take appropriate measures (bear bells, etc.)

3. Plant and Environmental Conservation

• Don't collect precious wildflowers
• Avoid loud noises to enjoy nature's sounds

Consideration for Facilities and Local Community

1. Hot Spring Facility Etiquette

• Refrain from loud conversation in small facilities
• Special consideration for other bathers in mixed-gender cases
• Get permission before taking photographs

2. Respecting Regional Culture

• Show respect for local customs and traditions
• Follow region-specific bathing methods when they exist

3. Early Cancellation of Reservations

• One group's cancellation greatly affects small accommodations
• Contact early if unavoidable cancellation necessary

Tips for Enjoying Secret Hot Springs More

Here are tips for making hitou experiences more fulfilling:

Season and Timing Selection

Target Best Seasons

• Spring: Fresh greenery and increased flow from snowmelt
• Autumn: Enjoy autumn foliage and crisp air
• Winter: January-February for snow-viewing baths

Choose weekdays or off-seasons to avoid crowds

Time Management

• Early morning open-air baths offer tranquility and sunrise benefits
• Twilight time sometimes enjoys both sunset and starry skies
• Late-night bathing provides special experience under starry skies

Enjoying Local Culture and Cuisine

Taste Regional Local Cuisine

• Seasonal dishes utilizing mountain and river delicacies
• Combination of local sake brewery offerings and hot springs
• Traditional dining styles unique to hot spring inns

Learn Regional History and Culture

• Legends and folklore related to hot springs
• Visit regional historic buildings and cultural properties
• Information gained from conversations with locals

Planning Multiple Secret Spring Tours

Area-Based Secret Spring Tours

• Efficient planning to tour multiple hitou within one region
• Examples: Tohoku secret spring tour, Okuhida secret spring tour

Theme-Based Secret Spring Tours

• Sulfur spring tours, mixed-gender secret spring tours, ancient spring tours
• Setting your own unique themes is also enjoyable

Hot Spring Journal Utilization

• Keep records of visited hitou
• Collect stamps and bathing certificates for collection enjoyment

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What's the difference between hitou and meitou?

A: "Meitou" is a designation emphasizing the quality of hot springs themselves, such as excellent spring quality, historical evaluation, and high recognition. On the other hand, "hitou" emphasizes "hidden" elements such as difficult access, low recognition, and harmony with natural environment. Of course, many hot springs exist that have excellent spring quality (meitou elements) while being located in remote places (hitou elements).

Q: What clothing and items should I bring when going to hitou?

A: Since hitou are often located in mountainous or remote areas, more preparation is needed than regular hot spring trips. Prepare seasonal cold weather gear and rain gear, trekking shoes, maps or compass (smartphone signals may not reach some locations), flashlight, first aid kit, etc. for peace of mind. Also, since small accommodations may have limited amenities, it's good to bring necessary items.

Q: Are Japan's Three Great Secret Hot Springs officially determined?

A: "Japan's Three Great Secret Hot Springs" are not officially designated and various theories exist. Most commonly refers to Tsurunoyu at Nyuto Onsen-kyo, Fujishichi Onsen, and Hoshi Onsen, but other theories also exist. This is similar to "Japan's Three Great Famous Hot Springs" and "Japan's Three Ancient Springs" - there are no strict official criteria.

Q: Are there tips for women to comfortably enter mixed-gender hitou?

A: Mixed-gender culture is a traditional part of Japanese hot springs, but first-timers may feel anxious. Methods include wrapping towels around the body (using yu-ami towels), choosing relatively quiet times like early morning or weekdays, utilizing women-only time periods when available, entering with family or friends, etc. Recently, increasing hitou offer "yu-ami wear" rental or install screens for female guests. It's good to check with accommodations in advance.

Q: How many hitou are closed in winter?

A: Mountain hitou, especially those in Tohoku, Hokkaido, and high elevations around the Japan Alps, are often closed in winter (generally December-April). This is due to access road closures from snow accumulation and water pipe freezing risks. However, some hitou operate specifically in winter for snow-viewing bath appeal. We recommend confirming operating status in advance when planning visits.

Q: Are there hitou that can be enjoyed with children?

A: Since hitou generally have difficult access and not necessarily complete facilities, they're often not suitable for small children, but some relatively accessible hitou with family-oriented services exist. For example, some accommodations at Shirahone Onsen, Hirayu Onsen in Okuhida Onsen-go, and Yunishigawa Onsen provide children's meals and activities. It's good to confirm children's acceptance status with accommodations in advance.

Conclusion

Hitou are not simply hot springs with poor access, but special existences harboring many charms such as tranquility, unity with nature, and authentic hot spring experiences. Throughout Japan, numerous hitou exist starting with the three great secret hot springs, each with unique appeal.

When visiting hitou, advance research and preparation are important. Thoroughly investigating access methods, facility information, seasonal changes, etc. enables more fulfilling hitou experiences. Also, don't forget consideration for natural environment and regional culture.

Hitou's appeal lies in their "extraordinary nature." Departing from busy daily life, feeling hot spring warmth in quiet environments surrounded by nature—such luxurious time brings great effect for mind and body refreshment.

The 20 hitou introduced in this article are all famous springs receiving high evaluation from hot spring enthusiasts. Please visit according to your preferences and purposes, and embark on a journey to find your own "favorite secret hot spring."

A wisp of steam rising from nature's depths. There, special experiences await that can never be tasted in the city.