The 4 Best Hot Spring Hikes in Japan

1.Full Day Hiking Tour at Mt.Takao including Hot Spring

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 52 reviews · from $118Our pick

Meet your private guide at Takaosanguchi Station for a 5.5-hour Mt. Takao hike. Choose an easier or harder trail, visit Yakuo-in Temple, descend by cable car or lift, and learn proper onsen etiquette before soaking at Takaosan Onsen. Guides such as Hiroko, Keita, Rie, and Takeshi are known for adapting the pace and explaining local culture.

“Visiting Mt. Takao was definitely the touch of nature i wanted to try and experience while in Japan. Because i stayed in Tokyo primarily, this was one of the closer chances to get away from the city. My guide, Rie-san, was patient and definiteRead more”

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2.Hike and Hot Springs in Kurama

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 49 reviews · 4 hours · from $80Best value

Escape Kyoto for a four-hour guided hike from Kibune to Kurama. You’ll ride the Eizan train, visit Kibune Shrine and Kurama Temple, hear local legends, and climb through cedar forest. Guides such as Philippe and Chris add cultural context. Finish with lunch or an optional outdoor hot spring bath in Kurama.

“Philippe was my tour guide and has a wonderful understanding of the history and culture associated with Mount Kurama. Not only was he pleasant to have conversation with, the hike is indeed very mystical and leaves you with a sense of awe and appreciation. After the hike, there is an option to use the onsen overlooking the mountains which makes for a very relaxing trip to the mountain.”

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3.Traverse Outer Rim of Hakone Caldera and Enjoy Onsen Hiking Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 30 reviews · from $158

Join a nationally certified guide for a 7 to 8 hour Hakone hike covering about 8 to 9 km. Climb 500 meters in 90 minutes, walk the caldera rim, then enjoy lunch and an onsen near Togendai. The group is limited to six, but taxi fare, food, and the ¥1,500 onsen fee are extra.

“This was a great day's hike. Good views and a very interesting and patient guide. I think it's best for active families or individuals and there is uneven terrain but it was delightful day. We are glad we did the hike even though it was foggy and we couldn't see Fuji.”

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4.Samurai Guide Sho’s Mt. Takao Hike, Temple & Onsen from Shinjuku

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 9 reviews · from $117

Join Samurai Guide Sho for a small-group day from Shinjuku to Mt. Takao. You’ll navigate Tokyo’s rail system, hike for about 90 minutes, visit Yakuo-in Temple, descend by chairlift when conditions allow, then choose between a tattoo-friendly hot spring and dining with craft beer. Sneakers are fine, but bring water, rain gear, and cash.

“The train guidance from Shinjuku to Mt. Takao was very clear and smooth. Samurai Guide Sho made every transfer easy, so l never felt lost. During the hike, he adjusted the pace for everyone, which made the climb comfortable. The route felt well planned and stress-free. Returning to Shinjuku was also smooth and reassuring.”

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