Nestled on the northern shore of Kyushu Island, Fukuoka Prefecture is the perfect place to visit if you are after city life, serene natural landscapes, and centuries-old history. Often overshadowed by more popular tourist destinations like Tokyo and Kyoto, Fukuoka remains a hidden gem, offering visitors an authentic and immersive Japanese experience. One of the region’s most alluring attractions is its onsens, or hot springs, which have been drawing travellers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation for centuries.
An onsen is a traditional Japanese hot spring, typically accompanied by a public bathhouse or ryokan (Japanese inn) where visitors can soak in the mineral-rich waters. These hot springs are deeply rooted in Japanese culture and offer a soothing, communal experience that promotes both physical and emotional well-being.
If you want to learn more about Japanese customs and manners, make sure to check out my book which I created in partnership with a Japanese illustrator.
Fukuoka’s onsens are known for their de-stressing properties and stunning surroundings. From the tranquil riverside retreat of Harazuru to the historic charm of the urban Hakata Onsen, each hot spring destination in Fukuoka has unique features and therapeutic benefits. The region’s onsens are known for their high-quality mineral waters, which are believed to alleviate ailments such as muscle pain, fatigue, and skin conditions.
Whether you’re a seasoned onsen enthusiast or a first-time visitor, the hot springs of Fukuoka provide an unparalleled opportunity to unwind and connect with Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Soak in the soothing waters, take in the breathtaking scenery, and experience the warmth and hospitality of Fukuoka’s people as you discover the myriad charms of this enchanting region.
Japan Rail Pass
The optimal way to explore Japan is with a rail pass that is available for durations of 7, 14, or 21 days, offering unlimited travel across the country. Shinkansen included!
Harazuru Onsen
Harazuru Onsen is one of the Fukuoka’s largest hot spring towns, with 14 unique onsen ryokan (Japanese inns) and attracting over 800,000 visitors annually. This is a rapidly growing must-see destination in Fukuoka with rejuvenating baths and relaxing experiences for travellers.
Harazuru Onsen provides access to both alkaline and sulphur baths, a rare combination seldom found in a single location. This is precisely why Harazuru Onsen has earned the esteemed title of “The Hot Spring of Double Beauty.” Women, in particular, are drawn to this haven of relaxation and rejuvenation.
And it’s not just the hot spring that brings visitors to Harazuru Onsen, but the region hosts a variety of seasonal activities throughout the year. Try traditional cormorant fishing, participate in herb festivals or go fruit picking.
Our recommended hotels in Harazuru Onsen
Hotel Parens Onoya is a century-old Japanese ryokan that features indoor and outdoor hot-spring baths, a sauna, and a Japanese garden. It offers comfortable Japanese and Western rooms with free WiFi, massage treatments, and a complimentary breakfast buffet. The ryokan has a bedrock hot-spring bath under the open sky that is segregated by gender, and a private family bath is available. The property also features a sumptuous Japanese restaurant, drink vending machines, and free parking. The ryokan offers a free pick-up service from JR Chikugoyoshii Train Station, and it’s located near Kirin Beer Park and Akizuki Castle Remains.
Harazuru Grand Sky Hotel in Asakura offers comfortable accommodation with mountain views, free WiFi, and free bike rentals. The hotel features a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a hot spring bath, karaoke, and a 24-hour front desk. This hotel books well in advance and some rooms come with half board.
Dance of Harazuru is a traditional Japanese ryokan in Asakura which features a shared lounge, a restaurant, and free private parking. It also has a hot spring bath, room service, and free WiFi throughout the property. Breakfast and dinner is included in the ryokan price per night.
Hakata Onsen
Hakata Onsen, located within Fukuoka City, is the perfect urban hot spring experience. You will basically have the tranquillity of traditional onsens with the convenience and energy of a bustling city. Sound perfect, right?
Situated in the heart of Fukuoka, this onsen is easily accessible and provides a perfect retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst your city explorations. Do consider it for when you want to stay in Fukuoka.
The mineral-rich waters of Hakata Onsen are said to have therapeutic properties, helping to alleviate stress, muscle pain, and fatigue, while also promoting overall well-being. Visitors can enjoy a variety of indoor and outdoor baths, as well as private baths.
Hakata Onsen’s central location offers easy access to a wide range of attractions, including historical sites, shopping areas, and local cuisine. Make sure to check the night street food stalls along the famous Canal City Hakata and Nakasu.
When you want to enjoy Hakata Onsen you can pick a traditional ryokans (Japanese inns) or a luxury modern hotel.
Here are our recommended hotels in Hakata Onsen
Agora Fukuoka Hilltop Hotel & Spa offers modern designer rooms with spa facilities and a spacious public bath. The hotel offers Japanese-style rooms with traditional futon bedding and rooms with Western beds. The hotel has a gift shop, a library lounge with international books, and an open-air garden terrace.
Click here for prices and book Agora Fukuoka Hilltop Hotel & Spa
THE BLOSSOM HAKATA Premier is a centrally located hotel in Fukuoka, featuring air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi and private parking. The hotel offers a restaurant, sauna and a public onsen on site
The Royal Park Canvas Fukuoka Nakasu offers air-conditioned rooms, a shared lounge, free WiFi, and a terrace. The hotel has a restaurant, bar, and a sauna. The hotel is near popular points of interest, including Nakajima Park, Kagami Temmangu Shrine, and Okihamainari Shrine and has a public bath for guests to enjoy.
Click here for prices and book The Royal Park Canvas Fukuoka Nakasu
Nishitetsu Hotel Croom Hakata offers free WiFi and rooms with flat-screen TV and videos-on-demand, a 5-minute walk from JR Hakata Train Station. The hotel provides spacious public baths and massages. Each air-conditioned room includes a safety deposit box, fridge, and electric kettle with green tea bags.
Click here for prices and book Nishitetsu Hotel Croom Hakata
Hotel Resol Trinity Hakata is a modern hotel located in Fukuoka. The hotel features a public bath on the top floor, as well as a restaurant. Rakusis Spa Salon is designed for ladies, and laundry services are available on site.
Hotel Torifito Hakata Gion is a 4-star hotel located in Fukuoka, built in 2020 with a lovely public bath on site. The hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi and private parking. It is ideally situated within 200 yards of Ryugu-ji Temple, Hakatamachiya Furusatokan Museum, and Hakata Traditional Craft and Design Museum.
Candeo Hotels Fukuoka Tenjin offers modern rooms, free WiFi, a public bath, and a sauna. Rooms feature a comfortable bed, fridge, and private bathroom. An internet-enabled PC is available for guests. The hotel is a 10-minute walk from Tenjin Subway Station.
Hotel Vista Fukuoka Nakasu-Kawabata offers lovely guest rooms come with a flat-screen TV and a safety deposit box, and the hotel also has a public bath for guests to enjoy. The property is situated near popular attractions like Kawabata Shopping Arcade, Hakatamachiya Furusatokan Museum, and Okihamainari Shrine.
Click here for prices and book Hotel Vista Fukuoka Nakasu-Kawabata
CROSS Life Hakata Tenjin is a 3-star hotel with air-conditioned rooms with city views, private parking, and a public bath. Each room comes with a wardrobe, kettle, fridge, safety deposit box, flat-screen TV, and private bathroom with a bidet.
Comfotable hotel with a smallish public bath, but ideal for those who are looking for a modern, simople and comfortable hotel room. The hotel is located less than 0.6 miles from Imaizumi Park and a 11-minute walk from The Shops.
APA Hotel Hakata Eki Chikushiguchi offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi and private parking. The hotel has a 24-hour front desk and a restaurant. Rooms also come with access to a public bath.
Click here for prices and book APA Hotel Hakata Eki Chikushiguchi
APA Hotel & Resort Hakata Ekihigashi is a 3-star hotel in Fukuoka with air-conditioned rooms and free WiFi. The hotel features a restaurant, private parking and a 24-hour reception. Each room comes with a desk, flat-screen TV and private bathroom. APA Hotel & Resort Hakata Ekihigashi has a public onsen.
Click here for prices and book APA Hotel & Resort Hakata Ekihigashi
Futsukaichi Onsen
Futsukaichi Onsen is a renowned hot springs area with a rich history spanning over 1,300 years. Located in Fukuoka Prefecture, it provides visitors with easy access to various sightseeing spots in the region. From Futsukaichi Onsen, travellers can easily visit the Kyushu National Museum, Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, and other historical sites, making it an excellent base for exploring the area.
The spring quality at Futsukaichi Onsen is characterized as an alkaline. The high-temperature water, rich in radon, has a pleasant sulphur scent and a smooth texture. This hot spring is well-known for its “beauty water” qualities, as it is believed to be beneficial for the skin.
Futsukaichi Onsen provides you with a blissful experience, allowing you to warm your body and mind while soaking in the wonderful hot springs that have been gushing out continuously since ancient times.
Here are our recommended hotels in Futsukaichi Onsen
Daikanso is a 3-star ryokan in Chikushino, located within 2.4 miles of Kanzeon-ji Temple and 2.7 miles of Komyozen-ji Temple. The ryokan features a garden, free WiFi, and free private parking. The ryokan provides an Asian breakfast and a hot spring bath for guests to enjoy.
Route Inn Grantia is a modern hotel in Dazaifu, located 0.7 miles from Dazaifu Train Station. The hotel features hot-spring baths, a Korean sauna, and a relaxation room with massage chairs. The rooms offer free internet, a flat-screen TV, video-on-demand movies, and fresh green tea.
Villa Dazaifu is a guest house which features an onsen, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden, and a shared lounge. Guests can use the shared kitchen and the 24-hour front desk. The guest house is limited to one group per day and provides bed linen, towels, and a coffee machine.
Wakita Onsen
Wakita Onsen is a beautiful hot spring nestled in the tranquil town of Miyawaka. You will be able to have that perfect rejuvenating hot spring experience surrounded by the natural beauty of lush green mountains, picturesque countryside, and the soothing sounds of flowing rivers. Located less than an hour’s drive from both Fukuoka and Kitakyushu, this serene haven transports you to a nostalgic, simpler time.
The healing waters of Wakita Onsen have their own therapeutic properties, providing a sanctuary for the body and mind. As you soak in the warm mineral-rich waters, feel the tension in your muscles dissolve, and let your mind drift into a state of deep relaxation.
Amidst the captivating scenery, delight in the fragrance of grass and the colourful array of seasonal flowers that contribute to the enchanting atmosphere of Wakita Onsen. This idyllic retreat offers a genuine sense of refreshment and rejuvenation, allowing you to reconnect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Here are our recommended hotels in Wakita Onsen
Route Inn Grantia Wakamiya offers rooms with free wired internet, a satellite flat-screen TV, and hot-spring baths. It also has tennis courts, massages, and traditional Japanese rooms with tatami flooring and futon bedding. All rooms come with a private bathroom, video-on-demand programs, and green tea.
Click here for prices and book Route Inn Grantia Fukuoka Miyawaka
Miyawaka Onsenky is a hotel located in Miyawaka, offering accommodation with a restaurant and free private parking. The air-conditioned rooms come with a flat-screen TV, a safety deposit box, and a private bathroom with free toiletries and a hairdryer. Some rooms come with private bath and are on half board basis.
Click here for prices and book Miyawaka Onsenkyo Miyawaka Toranoyu
Onsen Etiquette
Before diving into the relaxing world of Japanese onsens, it’s important to be aware of some basic etiquette. Onsen etiquette is taken seriously in Japan and following it will help you enjoy a comfortable and respectful experience. I learnt about it during my stay at the Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan, which is the oldest hotel in the world.
Check out the illustration below to familiarise yourself with some of the dos and donts when entering a Japanese onsen. Some basic rules are:
- Wash before entering the hot spring.
- Don’t wear any clothing or swimsuits in the hot spring.
- Keep your hair out of the water.
- Don’t soak for too long or cause disruptions.
- Be mindful of others and avoid loud conversations or excessive splashing.
- Refrain from bringing any food or drinks into the hot spring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there onsens in Fukuoka?
Yes, there are many onsens in Fukuoka. In fact, the most onsen in Fukuoka are right in the city, which means you can enjoy soaking in an onsen, then go out to see Fukuoka’s top attractions, best cultural sights and enjoy the local food. One of the best onsen in Fukuoka is Hakata Onsen which is in Hakata area.
Can foreigners go to onsen in Japan?
Yes, foreigners can go to onsen in Japan as long as they are mindful and respectful of the Japanese onsen etiquette. It’s important to note that some onsen don’t allow people with tattoos in the public baths. However, you can still book a private onsen for a short while to enjoy it all for yourself. Make sure you respect the local customs when using an onsen. Wash before entering the hot spring, don’t wear any clothes, swimwear or a towel when entering the onsen and be mindful of others around you.
Which prefecture has the most onsen?
When it comes to the prefecture with the most onsen, Oita Prefecture in Kyushu is considered to have the highest concentration of hot springs in Japan. The prefecture has over 4,000 onsen, ranging from outdoor baths with stunning views to modern indoor facilities. Oita is just 2 hours by shinkansen from Fukuoka. Other prefectures with a high number of onsen include Nagano, Akita, and Hokkaido.
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