Chubu Onsens

On the surface, Chubu onsens are no secret to Japan travelers.
You have the famous “Snow Monkeys” in Nagano, proving that humans are not the only ones who enjoy a good soak.

However, digging deeper into the “Roof of Japan” reveals some of the country’s most historic waters:

Gero Onsen (Gifu): Ranked as one of Japan’s “Three Famous Hot Springs” (Nihon Sanmeisen).
It is famous for smooth, alkaline water that feels like lotion on the skin, making it a must-visit for any onsen enthusiast.

Okuhida Onsen-go (Gifu): A collection of five rustic villages deep in the Northern Alps.
These spots boast massive open-air baths (rotenburo) with breathtaking mountain views.

But if you are a skiing or hiking fan, your Chubu onsen experience is about to get a LOT bigger.
Nagano is the most accessible area from Tokyo for snow sports, and almost every resort features access to amazing bathhouses.

I find it a huge shame that most tourists fly straight to Hokkaido for skiing—Nagano is cheaper, easier to access, more local, and above all, has legendary bathing scenery. Luckily for you, I’m a HUGE skiing fanatic, and I look forward to introducing you to the best spots below!