Asama Onsen, nestled in the city of Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture, offers a quintessential Japanese hot spring experience. The onsen features separate areas for males and females, each equipped with multiple indoor pools, saunas, and two outdoor pools—one hot and one cold—providing a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation. With water temperatures ranging from 42-47 degrees Celsius, visitors can immerse themselves in the therapeutic warmth of these natural springs. The onsen's historical charm is enhanced by its past as an open-air speed skating rink between 1969 and 2011, adding a unique cultural layer to its appeal. Best time to visit: The best time to visit Asama Onsen is during the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November), when the weather is mild and pleasant, enhancing the onsen experience with beautiful natural surroundings..
A hillside hot spring resort above Matsumoto city in Nagano Prefecture, with views of the Northern Alps from the outdoor baths. The waters here are a strongly alkaline sodium bicarbonate spring known for their exceptionally smooth feel on the skin. Dozens of independent ryokan and public bathhouses cluster across the hillside.