Tokyo’s Hidden Gems: 5 Must-Visit Onsen Retreats
Tokyo, a city that seamlessly blends modernity with tradition, offers a unique bathing experience through its numerous onsen and public bathhouses. These establishments provide a perfect retreat from the bustling city life, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the centuries-old Japanese bathing culture. Here, we present five of the best onsen and public bathhouses in Tokyo, each offering its own distinctive features and charm.
From the historic Mikokuyu with its black springs and Skytree views to the eco-friendly Sakaeyu with its innovative bathing options, these bathhouses cater to diverse preferences. Whether you’re seeking the health benefits of natural hot springs, the relaxation of a sauna, or the unique experience of bathing in ancient cypress tubs, Tokyo’s bathhouses have something for everyone.
What sets these establishments apart is not just their facilities, but also their commitment to inclusivity. Many of them welcome tattooed guests, breaking away from traditional restrictions and embracing a more diverse clientele. This openness, combined with their rich history and modern renovations, makes these bathhouses a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike.
In the following article, we’ll take a closer look at Mikokuyu, Hinode-yu, Daikokuyu, Sakaeyu, and Daisan Tamanoyu. Each of these bathhouses offers a unique glimpse into Japanese bathing culture, providing an authentic and rejuvenating experience in the heart of Tokyo.
Mikokuyu (御谷湯)
Mikokuyu, a public bathhouse in Tokyo’s Sumida Ward, has been a local favorite since 1947. Renovated in 2015, it’s now a five-story facility offering affordable thermal baths with natural hot spring water, including distinctive black springs. Features include semi-open-air baths with Skytree views and cypress tubs with varied water temperatures. This urban onsen welcomes tattooed guests, providing a traditional Japanese bathing experience.
Hinode-yu (浅草天然温泉 日の出湯)
Hinode-yu is a natural hot spring in Asakusa, Tokyo, near Inaricho and Ueno stations. Open 2:00 PM to 10:40 PM (closed Wednesdays), it features bathtubs made from ancient cypress trees, which offer additional health benefits. The spring water, sourced from 100 meters underground, is pure and unfiltered. Hinode-yu also offers a popular carbonated shower facility, believed to improve hair and skin quality.
Daikokuyu (押上温泉 大黒湯)
Daikokuyu Onsen, a traditional public bathhouse in Tokyo’s Sumida-ku, offers a view of the Tokyo Skytree. Established in 1949 and renovated in 2014, it features modern Japanese aesthetics. The onsen uses weak alkaline hot springs and provides various bathing options. It’s a cultural landmark welcoming diverse visitors, including those with tattoos. Admission fees range from 100 to 520 yen, with additional charges for sauna use.
Sakaeyu (天然温泉 湯どんぶり 栄湯)
Sakaeyu, a Tokyo public bathhouse, uses solar power and LED lighting since 1979, making it eco-friendly. It offers natural hot springs with skin and hair benefits. The facility features various baths, including outdoor nanofine bubble and pot baths, and indoor options like microvibration and carbonated spring baths. A Himalayan rock salt sauna and diverse amenities attract locals and newcomers. Notably, tattooed individuals are welcome.
Daisan Tamanoyu (第三玉乃湯)
Daisan Tamanoyu in Kagurazaka is a unique adult bathhouse that allows tattooed patrons. Renovated in 2018, it features a sauna, cold-water bath, and a rare 44°C open-air bath for 4-5 people. The facility also offers a jet bath and carbonated spring for relaxation. As a nostalgic touch, ice cream is sold from an icebox, perfect for post-bath enjoyment.
