Autumn in Japan is more than red leaves and crisp air—it’s also one of the best times to soak in an onsen (hot spring). As September and October bring cooler evenings, slipping into a steaming outdoor bath feels extra magical, especially when surrounded by mountains just starting to show their autumn colors. Unlike the peak winter season, early autumn onsen trips often mean fewer crowds, milder weather, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Here are some of the best hot spring escapes you can enjoy this autumn—perfect to pair with private transfers for a seamless, stress-free journey.
1. Hakone Onsen (Kanagawa)
Drive time: ~1.5 hours from Tokyo
One of the most famous onsen towns near Tokyo, Hakone is an ideal early autumn retreat. Imagine soaking in an outdoor bath while gazing at Mt. Fuji framed by fiery foliage. Hakone also offers museums, lake cruises, and local specialties like black eggs boiled in volcanic hot springs.
Why visit in early autumn? Crowds are lighter than in November, yet the weather is cool enough to truly enjoy long, relaxing soaks.
2. Kinosaki Onsen (Hyogo)
Drive time: ~2.5 hours from Osaka
Kinosaki is a charming onsen town where visitors stroll the streets in yukata (cotton robes), hopping between the seven public bathhouses. Each has its own unique atmosphere, from cave-like baths to open-air pools.
In September and October, the willow-lined canals and surrounding hills start showing their first hints of color, creating a picturesque backdrop for an evening stroll. Pair your soak with a seasonal kaiseki dinner featuring fresh autumn crab or matsutake mushrooms.
3. Arima Onsen (Hyogo, near Kobe)
Drive time: ~1 hour from Osaka
Arima Onsen is one of Japan’s oldest hot spring towns, famed for its golden and silver waters. The mineral-rich baths are said to help with relaxation and skin health.
Early autumn is a sweet spot to visit—pleasantly cool weather, but not as busy as the peak leaf-viewing season. Plus, its convenient location makes it easy to combine with a day trip to Kobe or even Kyoto.
4. Shuzenji Onsen (Izu Peninsula, Shizuoka)
Drive time: ~2.5 hours from Tokyo
Tucked in the Izu Peninsula, Shuzenji is a more laid-back option compared to Hakone. The town is known for its bamboo groves, riverside baths, and quiet temples, offering a mix of culture and relaxation.
In autumn, the Katsura River is especially scenic as the maples begin to turn. Shuzenji is also famous for its seasonal cuisine, with chestnut-based sweets and dishes appearing on local menus.
5. Nozawa Onsen (Nagano Prefecture)
Drive time: ~4.5 hours from Tokyo / ~3.5 hours from Nagano City
Famous as a ski resort in winter, Nozawa Onsen is just as charming in early autumn. The village is filled with traditional bathhouses (sotoyu), and the surrounding hills begin showing their first touches of gold and red in September and October.
Wandering through its narrow streets in a yukata, stopping for local treats like Nozawana pickles or freshly grilled oyaki dumplings, makes the experience feel cozy and authentic. Without the winter ski crowds, autumn offers a slow-travel atmosphere—perfect for soaking and strolling at your own pace.
Travel in Comfort with Private Transfers
Many of these hot spring towns are tucked away in the mountains, which means limited train and bus options—especially if you’re carrying luggage. That’s where Hire Taxi Japan makes things simple.
With a private transfer, you can:
- Travel directly from your hotel or airport to the onsen town
- Make scenic stops for photos or local food along the way
- Relax in air-conditioned comfort without hauling bags on trains
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a cultural retreat, or just a relaxing break from sightseeing, a private transfer ensures the journey is just as comfortable as the destination.
Ready for Your Autumn Onsen Escape?
From the misty mountains of Hakone to the quiet streets of Kinosaki and Nozawa, early autumn is the perfect time to enjoy Japan’s hot springs. You’ll find crisp air, peaceful settings, and seasonal flavors—without the heavy crowds of later in the season.
Let us help you plan a trip that combines relaxation, scenery, and seamless travel.
Book your private transfer today and enjoy Japan’s hidden hot springs at their most magical.
