Think There Are No Onsen in Tokyo? Think Again.
Many visitors dream of soaking in a Japanese onsen (hot spring), but with limited time in Japan, traveling to remote hot spring towns isn’t always possible. Tokyo, one of the world’s busiest cities, might seem like the last place to enjoy a natural hot spring.
But the truth is—yes, you can enjoy onsen in Tokyo!
The city offers a surprising number of hot spring facilities, from modern urban spas to traditional local bathhouses loved by residents.
Here’s how to experience relaxing onsen culture without leaving the capital.
How to Enjoy Onsen Easily in Tokyo
Tokyo has more onsen than you might expect. These facilities range from tourist-friendly, resort-style spas to nostalgic neighborhood bathhouses.
Below are some of the best options for beginners and onsen fans alike.
Urban Hot Spring Facilities
These modern spa complexes are easy to visit, tourist-friendly, and usually include towels, loungewear, and amenities in the admission fee.
● Times Spa Resta (Ikebukuro)
Located just a 10-minute walk from Ikebukuro Station, this urban onsen sits inside a commercial building—something you’d never guess from its modern exterior. The inside, however, features spacious baths and a relaxing atmosphere. It’s clean, convenient, and perfect for first-timers, though it feels more like a spa resort than a traditional Japanese onsen.
● Thermae-Yu (Shinjuku)
Just minutes from Kabukicho and a 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, Thermae-Yu is ideal after a day of shopping or nightlife. It offers a wide variety of baths right in the heart of Tokyo. Tattooed guests are allowed as long as they purchase a cover sticker at the entrance.
● Niwa no Yu (Toshimaen)
A short walk from Toshimaen Station, Niwa no Yu is known for its vast Japanese garden—giving it a truly authentic hot spring atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy natural hot spring water in a quiet, spacious setting that feels far removed from the city.
Local Public Bathhouses with Hot Springs
A little farther from central Tokyo, these facilities offer casual onsen experiences for under 1,000 yen. Towels are usually not included, so bring your own or rent them for a small fee.
● Saya no Yu Dokoro (Itabashi)
Although still within Tokyo, this facility offers real hot spring water with a free-flowing natural source. It’s an 8-minute walk from Shimura-Sanchome Station on the Toei Mita Line. The atmosphere is quiet and relaxing, and the experience is very affordable.
● Ofuro no Ousama (Oimachi)
Right outside Oimachi Station, this popular chain has around 10 locations across the Tokyo area. With a wide variety of baths and reasonable prices, it’s a great introduction before visiting a more traditional hot spring town.
Want the Real Hot Spring Resort Experience? Visit Hakone
If you have extra time, consider a day trip or overnight stay in Hakone, one of Japan’s most famous onsen regions.
● Getting There
Take the Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku Station and arrive at Hakone-Yumoto in about 90 minutes. Once there, you’ll find a charming hot spring town full of ryokan, shops, and natural scenery.
● Hakone Yuryo
A short 3-minute shuttle ride from Hakone-Yumoto Station, Hakone Yuryo is a beautiful one-day hot spring facility surrounded by mountains. Along with large communal baths, it offers private open-air baths (for an additional fee), perfect for those who want extra privacy.
Sento: A More Traditional, Local Bath Experience
If you want to go deeper into Japanese bathing culture, try visiting a sento—a traditional public bathhouse. Many sento in Tokyo still preserve their retro Showa-era charm.
Admission is very inexpensive (around 500 yen), but towels and shampoo cost extra unless you bring your own.
● Oshiage Onsen Daikokuyu
Located a 10-minute walk from Tokyo Skytree, this sento has a nostalgic atmosphere typical of Tokyo’s old downtown neighborhoods. It’s a great place to stop by while exploring the area.
Ready to Enjoy Onsen in Tokyo?
As you can see, you don’t need to travel far to experience Japan’s hot springs.
From modern spas to traditional sento and easy day trips to Hakone, Tokyo offers plenty of ways to relax and enjoy onsen culture—no matter how short your stay.