Category Archives: Alps Hot Springs

Kusatsu Onsen

Kusatsu Onsen (草津温泉) is a hot spring town in the Japanese Alps, and popular with Japanese tourists. Foreign visitors should not expect to find they are the only non-Japanese tourists here, but the town is one of best for hot spring experiences. The stunning hot spring water that flows though the centre of town isContinue reading “Kusatsu Onsen”

Kaga Onsen

Kaga Onsen (加賀温泉) is a collection of easily and cheaply accessible hot spring areas. Each area has its own distinct feel and is worth visiting even if you are shy about hot springs due to the many foot baths and relaxing scenery and cafes. Budget travel tips Get a CANBUS pass for unlimited bus travel toContinue reading “Kaga Onsen”

Takayama

Takayama is a beautiful town in the Japanese Alps.  It is famous for it’s festivals, markets and old-fashioned atmosphere.  It makes for a nice trip away from cities such as Kyoto or Nagoya. Budget travel tips Pick up a free map of the area at the Tourist Information Office (see map) opposite the station. CutContinue reading “Takayama”

Yudanaka

Yudanaka and nearby Shibu Onsen are traditional hot spring areas, full of interesting old buildings, restaurants and shrines.  The area is well known for it’s monkey park, where monkeys play in a hot spring. Budget travel tips Makes for a great side trip from Nagano or Matsumoto.  The train to Yudanaka also stops at Obuse, a stunning town toContinue reading “Yudanaka”

Hakuba

Hakuba is the place to go for affordable, but excellent snowboarding or ski slopes.  The place is full of cheap guesthouses and hostels, and English language support is superb. Budget travel tips Hostels and guesthouse often have cheaper rental gear/snowboards/skis. Download the official map here, or get for free from the Happo (Hakuba) Information Center nextContinue reading “Hakuba”