Takamine Onsen hot spring
Open-air bath above the cloud
Category

Hotel

Price

$$

Also

Hot Spring

Message from Tony Xia

Takamine Onsen, set at 2,000 meters, is a peaceful mountain inn surrounded by pristine nature, ideal for hiking, stargazing, and seasonal activities. The onsen’s open-air baths offer panoramic views of the Asama Range, with mineral-rich waters and the calming sounds of mountain birds adding to the alpine experience.

Takamine Onsen offers day-use hot spring facilities, allowing visitors to experience its renowned "Lamp Bath" without an overnight stay.

Day-Use Details:

  • Operating Hours: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

  • Fees: ¥700

Winter Season (Mid-November to Late April):

  • Additional Snow Vehicle Fee: Due to heavy snowfall, access requires a snow vehicle service.

    • Adults: Additional ¥1,000 (Total ¥1,700)

    • Children: Additional ¥600 (Total ¥1,100)

Hot Springs Overview

Takamine Onsen features a blend of natural hot spring baths, including both indoor and outdoor options, all overlooking the vast mountain landscape. The onsen waters are known for their therapeutic properties, helping guests unwind and recover after a day of exploring the alpine environment.

  1. The Lamp Bath

    • This unique indoor bath, lit by traditional oil lamps, combines both a natural cold spring and a heated hot spring bath. Known for its calming atmosphere, the “Lamp Bath” is popular for guests seeking relaxation. Alternating between the two baths is said to improve circulation, making it an ideal practice for wellness.

  2. Open-Air “Cloud Above Bath”

    • The open-air bath offers a stunning view of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and at night, it provides an exceptional stargazing experience. This bath is particularly recommended for those looking to feel closer to nature and take in the dramatic scenery.

Lodging and Dining

  • Rooms: Takamine Onsen offers traditional Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats and futon bedding, complete with large windows to showcase panoramic mountain views. The rooms provide a simple yet authentic experience, perfect for unwinding.

  • Dining: Meals are served in a dining room that offers floor-to-ceiling glass windows with unobstructed views of the surrounding scenery. The cuisine features locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and highlights Shinshu regional flavors, creating a farm-to-table dining experience.

Access Information

  • Car Access: Takamine Onsen is accessible by car, though winter access may require special arrangements due to snow.

  • Snow Vehicle Service: From mid-November to late April, the onsen offers transport via snow vehicles, as heavy snow can restrict access. For the latest information, check with the onsen directly.

Age requirement

All ages

*By booking through me, you are supporting me as a content creator at no additional cost to you.
See all 632 things to do

Things to Do Nearby

Takamine Kogen Visitor Center
Mount Asama
Shakuson-ji Temple / Nunobuki Kannon
Harunire Terrace
Karuizawa
Kawakamian
Kusatsu Onsen
West Riverside open-air bath
Hanaingen
Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani Yaen Koen)
Kitayokodake
Tsuboniwa
Mount Tateshina
Mononoke Forest and Shirakoma Pond
Honzawa Onsen Trailhead 
Shirakoma-so Inn

Looking for things to do?

Go check out my guide for the best free things to do as well as itineraries and travel tips to make your trip unforgettable.

Go to Guide