Which hot springs in Japan are the most famous? If ranked in order, which ones would be at the top?

Japan boasts an abundance of hot springs, each with its unique charm. However, when it comes to the most famous ones, a few immediately come to mind whenever hot springs are mentioned. In terms of renown and history, the following usually rank at the top:

First up is Hakone Onsen, conveniently located near Tokyo, making it a popular first stop for many foreign tourists. Backed by Mount Fuji, it offers stunning scenery, and some open-air baths even provide views of the iconic mountain, perfect for photos. There are also numerous attractions nearby, such as Owakudani and Lake Ashi, making it pleasant to combine a hot spring visit with sightseeing.

Second is Kusatsu Onsen in Gunma Prefecture, one of Japan's premier and oldest hot springs, steeped in history. Its distinguishing feature is its "strong acidic spring water," known for its sterilizing properties, which locals claim helps with skin conditions and arthritis. The most famous spot is the "Yubatake," a steaming pool in the center of the hot spring town, which looks particularly atmospheric when lit up at night. There's also a traditional ritual called "Yumomi," where wooden paddles are used to stir and cool the hot water, which is quite interesting.

Next is Arima Onsen, near Kobe, often referred to as an "Imperial Onsen" because ancient emperors and nobles favored it. It has two main characteristics: one is "Kinsen" (Golden Spring), which contains iron and leaves the skin feeling smooth, leaving a golden mark when the water dries; the other is "Ginsen" (Silver Spring), which is transparent and gentler on the body. Though small, the area has a very elegant, ancient atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely soak.

Then there's Dogo Onsen in Ehime Prefecture, which is truly remarkable, said to have a history of 3,000 years, making it one of Japan's oldest hot springs. The bathhouse in Hayao Miyazaki's film "Spirited Away" was inspired by this very place. Its main building is a three-story wooden structure that looks particularly dreamy when lit up at night. A visit here is not just about bathing, but more about experiencing a tradition.

Also, Noboribetsu Onsen in Hokkaido is quite famous. With its many volcanoes, it offers an incredibly diverse range of hot spring types. You can experience over a dozen different spring qualities in one place, earning it the nickname "hot spring department store."

In summary, if one had to rank them, Hakone, Kusatsu, Arima, and Dogo usually come out on top. Hakone excels in convenience and scenery, Kusatsu is a traditional icon, Arima offers a touch of nobility, and Dogo is steeped in ancient charm. It depends on your preferred style, but each one is worth experiencing.