Snow Onsen in Japan: Where to Find Winter Rotenburo

Have you ever pictured yourself sitting in steaming hot spring water while snowflakes drift down all around you? That’s a snow onsen in Japan, and it’s one of the best travel experiences you can have.

In this guide, I’ll share the best winter onsen spots in Japan, along with when to visit, packing list and tips.

What is a snow onsen?

A snow onsen is simply an outdoor hot spring bath (rotenburo) that you enjoy in the middle of winter.

The idea is simple: the water keeps you toasty while the world around you is covered in snow.

I still remember my first time trying one. The air was cold enough to turn my breath to clouds while the water wrapped me in heat. It felt like two seasons colliding.

These winter outdoor onsen are especially beautiful in Japan’s heavy-snow regions like Tōhoku, Nagano, and Hokkaidō. You’ll find baths in forests, by rivers, or attached to traditional ryokans where you can step outside in your yukata and watch the snow pile high on the rooftops.

When to go

If you’re dreaming of soaking in a snow onsen, timing matters. The peak season runs from mid-January through late February, when the snow is deepest and most reliable.

You might catch it earlier in December or as late as March, depending on the region and elevation, but January and February are the sweet spot.

Different areas of Japan see snow at different times. Hokkaidō usually gets its first big snowfall in November and stays white well into April.

Tōhoku and Nagano have their best snow window in January and February.

Even places closer to Tokyo, like Kusatsu Onsen, are blanketed in snow during the winter months.

If you can, I’d plan your trip with a little flexibility. Snow is natural, not guaranteed on exact dates, but aim for late January and you’ll have the best chance to enjoy a true Japanese winter onsen.

Where to try snow onsen in Japan

When it comes to snow onsens, you’ve got options all over Japan. To make things easier, I’ll take you from north to south and show you the spots that really shine in winter.

Hokkaido

If you want guaranteed snow, Hokkaidō is a must. The outdoor baths here, like in Asahidake, stay white from November right through to April.

I love how dramatic the mountains feel in winter. You slip into the hot spring, look out at snowbanks, and instantly forget the cold.

Tohoku

This region is basically the heart of snow onsen in Japan. The snow piles up high, and the rotenburo here feel rustic and wild.

Nyūtō Onsen (Akita)

Picture a handful of old wooden lodges hidden in the mountains, with steaming baths outside and snow stacked meters high.

Tsuru no Yu is the one everyone talks about, with its thatched roofs and storybook look. You can even get a pass that lets you hop between several baths.

Ginzan Onsen (Yamagata)

This is the one that looks like it belongs in a film. Gas lamps, heavy snow, and narrow car-free streets.

You can stroll the town in a yukata, then duck into a ryokan for a soak. Some places even have private rotenburo if you want the snow all to yourself.

Zaō Onsen (Yamagata)

This one’s extra special because of the “snow monsters.” They’re these crazy-looking ice-covered trees on the slopes. Spend the day up there, then sink into an outdoor bath with the view still in front of you.

Nagano

Nagano gives you something you won’t find anywhere else: snow monkeys.

The famous Jigokudani Monkey Park is in Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen. And yes, the monkeys really do sit in hot springs while snow falls around them.

You’ll walk about 2 km through the snow to get there, but after, you can soak in your own bath at a local onsen. It’s a fun combo! You watch them relax, then you do the same.

Kanto

If you’re based in Tokyo, you don’t need to travel far to get the snow onsen experience.

The mineral waters in Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma) are some of the strongest in Japan, and the town gets plenty of snow in winter.

The big draw is Sainokawara Rotenburo, a massive open-air bath in the forest.

It’s about a 10–15 minute walk from the center of town, but once you’re sitting there with snow falling around you, you won’t care how big it is. It just feels incredible.

Kyushu

Kyushu doesn’t get the same heavy snow as the north, but you’ll still find cozy outdoor baths that feel magical with even a light dusting.

My favorite snow onsen town is Kurokawa Onsen in Kumamoto. This little town is known for its rustic ryokans and outdoor rotenburo surrounded by trees.

You can buy a pass that lets you hop between a few different baths here. Even if the snow is light, the atmosphere in winter is unbeatable.

How to plan your snow onsen trip

A snow onsen sounds dreamy, but winter can be unpredictable.

The best thing you can do is plan with a bit of flexibility. Trains and even flights sometimes get cancelled after heavy snowfall, especially up north, so I always leave myself some wiggle room.

There are a few other things worth keeping in mind:

• Check the roads: Mountain routes can close without warning, or the snow might pile up higher than you expect.
• Take it slow in the baths: The cold air feels sharp against your skin, and it can make the hot water feel extra intense. I’d say dip for a while, hop out for a break, then slide back in.
• Stay hydrated: I always drink water between soaks. You lose more moisture than you realize.
• Watch your step: Snow, ice, and wet rocks make for slippery paths. Good boots with grip will save you from an embarrassing tumble.
• Stick to marked paths: Some areas release geothermal gases, and deep snow can trap them. Stay where everyone else walks and you’ll be fine.

What to pack for a snow onsen

Packing for a snow onsen is a little different from your average hot spring trip.

You’ll be outside in the cold before and after your soak, so having the right things with you makes the whole experience much smoother. Here’s what I always bring:

• Warm outerwear: A thermal base, a cozy mid-layer, and a waterproof jacket. Layers are your best friend here.
• Boots with grip: Snow and ice can be slick. Waterproof boots keep your feet dry and stop you from slipping.
• A warm hat or wrap: Perfect for when you step out of the bath and your hair’s still damp.
• Extra socks: I like having a fresh, dry pair ready after soaking. Nothing feels better.
• Hand warmers: They’re tiny, light, and so handy when you’re walking back through snow.
• A waterproof pouch or bag: Great for keeping your phone, wallet, or camera safe from snow.
• Moisturizer and skincare: Winter air plus onsen water can dry you out fast. A little lotion makes all the difference.
• A face mask or scarf: Protects your cheeks from the wind when the weather turns icy.
• A flashlight or headlamp: Some remote baths get dark quickly, and paths can be tricky at night.
• A small backpack: Makes it easy to carry everything and keeps your hands free on slippery paths.

Photo etiquette and winter tips

Everyone wants that iconic snow onsen photo. I get it. But the number one rule is simple: no photos inside the baths.

Onsens are private spaces, and people are there to relax, not end up in the background of your holiday snaps.

But there’re ways to capture the moment:

• Focus on the setting: Snap the snowy town streets, the ryokan buildings, or the forest paths on your way in.
• Ask if you’re unsure: Some ryokan allow photos in outdoor baths when they’re empty. Just check first.
• Be quick and subtle: If you do take a shot, make it fast. Nobody wants a photo shoot going on nearby.

And a few little winter reminders:

• Have easy layers ready: Something soft you can slip into after the bath makes the cold shock easier.
• Warm up quickly: The air feels extra cold after soaking. Wrap up, sip some tea, and let your body settle.
• Watch for snow at night: Heavy snowfall can hide steps or railings. Keep a light handy and go slow.
• Check hours: Some onsens close certain baths in bad weather. Better to know before you head out.

Seasonal tips for snow onsen

Snow onsens are all about timing. The season changes everything, and winter brings its own little tricks. Here’s what I keep in mind:

• Go in the evening or morning: Steam rising in the cold light looks incredible, and you’ll often avoid the busiest times.
• Layer up smartly: Even if you’re only walking from your ryokan room to the outdoor bath, the cold can be biting. I like quick layers that are easy to take on and off.
• Plan for short soaks: In winter the contrast between freezing air and hot water feels intense. Ten to fifteen minutes is usually plenty.
• Leave room in your schedule: Snow can slow down travel, so don’t try to cram too much into one day. A relaxed pace makes it more enjoyable.

What not to bring to a snow onsen

It’s easy to overpack, but some things just get in the way. Leave these at home:

• Phones and cameras in the bath: Keep them tucked away. Privacy is key, and the steam won’t do them any favors anyway.
• Swimwear: Unless you’re at a mixed-gender bath that allows it, you’ll be nude. That’s the norm.
• Soaps and shampoos: Washing happens at the showers, never in the bath itself.
• Valuables: With snow, steam, and shared changing areas, the less you bring, the less you worry.
• Bulky bags: Changing rooms in ryokans and bathhouses aren’t big. A light backpack is plenty.

Before you go

Snow onsens are a highlight of winter in Japan, but there’s even more to discover once you dip into hot spring culture.

If you want to compare options, my post on How to book a ryokan will help you secure the right stay. Curious about the cultural side? What is Omotenashi? explains the spirit of Japanese hospitality you’ll feel the moment you check in.

If you’re new to hot springs, What to wear at a ryokan will make you feel prepared from the start. And when you’re ready to explore further, Onsen food will give you plenty of ideas for the perfect post-soak meal.