Hot Springs / Spa Trip
Bringing the uniquely Japanese hot spring and spa experience closer to you.
Hot spring culture has been cherished for centuries. Please experience a uniquely Japanese moment of relaxation while soothing both body and mind. At Prince Hotels, you can easily enjoy hot springs and spas in a variety of locations, including by the sea, in the mountains, and in the city.
The allure of hot springs and the Japanese culture of therapeutic bathing
Blessed with volcanoes and abundant groundwater, Japan has hot springs scattered throughout the country. Hot springs have been used since ancient times, as evidenced by their mention in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki.
People once stayed at hot spring resorts for extended periods, engaging in a regular daily routine that included bathing, eating, and getting plenty of sleep, in order to recover from illnesses and injuries and to rest and recuperate.
This is called "toji," a form of therapeutic bathing that has become deeply rooted in Japanese culture. Spending time relaxing in nature became an important habit aimed at restoring mind and body, and during the Edo period, it spread widely not only among shoguns and daimyos but also among ordinary people.
Even though advancements in medical care and transportation have reduced the number of long-term stays for therapeutic bathing, and short-term stays have become the norm, the culture of hot springs continues to be passed down unchanged. Hot spring resorts have become more easily accessible, and the custom of soaking in hot springs to refresh one's mind and body, even on short trips, remains popular among many Japanese people.
Another appeal of hot springs lies in their diversity. From quiet hot springs nestled in the mountains to open-air baths overlooking the ocean and snow-viewing baths surrounded by snowy landscapes, you can enjoy a variety of experiences depending on the location and season. Furthermore, the different health benefits of each type of hot spring, as well as the experiences associated with the local climate and food culture, are also part of the appeal of a hot spring trip.
Hot springs not only warm your body, but also provide a moment to restore your inner balance.
You can stay for an extended period, just like in the old days when people went to hot springs for therapeutic purposes, or you can just drop by casually and combine it with sightseeing and activities. When you step away from your daily routine and surrender yourself to the hot springs, you will find yourself in a space where time flows gently, filled with the same soothing comfort that has remained unchanged since ancient times.
The allure of a hot spring trip
Enjoying hot springs and spas with the passing of time
The allure of hot springs and spas makes you want to soak in them again and again throughout the day.
Morning
Surrounded by crisp air and the radiant morning sun, it's a refreshing and pleasant start to the day, leaving both mind and body feeling refreshed and balanced.
Afternoon
A luxurious and deeply enriching moment, surrounded by endless vistas and dazzling light, as you immerse yourself in a sense of openness that soothes the soul.
Dusk
A moment of peace and tranquility, as you gaze at the sunset painting the sky red, surrender to the slowly passing time, and savor the special afterglow.
Night
A special night steeped in peace, where you’ll be enveloped by a mystical sky full of stars and stillness, allowing you to forget about the worries of everyday life and let your mind unwind deep within.
Find hot spring and spa facilities at Prince Hotels
List of hot spring and spa facilities at Prince Hotels
A guide to hot springs and spas for first-time visitors
Here are some etiquettes and precautions for using hot springs and spas.
Hot spring and spa etiquettes
*Please note that the rules and regulations vary depending on the facility. Please check each facility's website before using their hot springs and spas.
*We strictly prohibit use by individuals associated with anti-social forces.
*Please note that we may restrict services to guests with tattoos.
Precautions for using the hot springs
(For your safe use)
● Avoid taking a bath immediately before or after meals. It is especially dangerous to use these facilities immediately after drinking alcohol, as it disrupts blood circulation.
● Avoid taking a bath when you are excessively fatigued. Resting your body helps you recover from fatigue.
● Immediately after exercise, there is a risk of dehydration and dizziness, so wait about 30 minutes for the sweat to subside and your breathing to calm down before taking a bath.
● To prevent dehydration, drink about a glass of water before taking a bath.
● Bathing alone can be dangerous for the elderly, children, and people with disabilities, as it can lead to serious accidents such as falls, drowning, and heat shock. Please ensure that family members are nearby to supervise and ensure safe bathing.
● Bathing when your energy is compromised, such as when you feel unwell, have a fever, or feel weak, places a significant strain on your body. Avoid bathing in such cases, as it could worsen symptoms due to dehydration and the strain caused by water pressure.
*If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or concerns about your cardiopulmonary function, please consult your doctor beforehand.
● If you have sensitive skin or mucous membranes, avoid bathing, as it may cause dermatitis or, depending on the mineral composition of the water, could worsen your symptoms.
● If you feel uncomfortable bathing in front of others, we recommend a private bath or a room with a private hot spring bath. You can enjoy the hot springs in a private space with peace of mind.
● Before getting into the bathtub, pour warm water over your hands and feet first then your body, to allow your body to adjust to the temperature and prevent a sudden rise in blood pressure. You should also wash off any dirt from your body before entering as a matter of etiquette.
● To avoid feeling dizzy, get out of the bathtub slowly.
● If you become dizzy or nauseous, keep your head low and step out of the bathtub slowly. Ask someone nearby for help, lie down, and wait to recover.
● To preserve the hot spring minerals, do not rinse off the hot spring water that has been left on your body; instead, pat yourself dry with a towel and change into your clothes.
*However, if the spring water is particularly harsh or if you have sensitive skin, rinse off with warm water or similar as needed.
● To avoid dehydration, drink about a glass of water again after getting out of the bath.
● You may experience adverse health effects 3 days to 1 week after beginning your therapeutic bathing ("toji"). In that case, stop bathing or reduce the frequency of bathing and wait for recovery.
*Some services and facilities are not available at all facilities.
*Content may vary depending on the facility. We ask for your understanding.
*The content may be subject to change. Please check the operating hours and services of each facility on their respective websites.
*Photographs are for illustrative purposes only.
