23 Mixed Onsens in Japan With Prices and Directions!

Looking for a mixed onsen in Japan?

Mixed baths in Japan, konyoku (混浴) are mixed gender or communal coed hot springs where all guests can enjoy soaking together with their companions in one onsen.

Have you always wanted to enjoy hot springs as a couple or family, but accommodation with en-suite private onsen is beyond your budget?

You may want to consider going for a Japan mixed onsen experience, at more affordable prices!

Some even boast large, open-air outdoor hot springs (rotenburou, 露天風呂) with scenic views, reminding us of the best onsen in Hokkaido.

It is an amazing experience at lower prices, but to be naked in an onsen with strangers… of the opposite gender?! I understand.

Luckily for us, there’s this nifty invention: wearable towel with straps!

In Japan, mixed onsens will usually provide these towels for the comfort, convenience, and privacy of guests enjoying the hot springs.

Onsen enthusiast Wen is going to share all the best mixed-gender onsens throughout all regions in Japan, so we can steam ourselves like happy dumplings!

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23 Mixed Gender Onsens In Japan

1. Kotan-no-yu, Hokkaido

2. Sounkyo Kankou Hotel, Hokkaido

3. Sukayu, Tohoku

4. Oosawa Onsen, Tohoku

5. Kyounso, Tohoku

6. Hatcho-no-yu, Kanto

7. Manza Prince Hotel, Kanto

8. Manza Kogen Hotel, Kanto

9. Hoshi Onsen Chojukan, Kanto

10. Sekizenkan, Kanto

11. Gorokaku, Kanto

12. Omaru Onsen Ryokan, Kanto

13. Yusakaso, Kanto

14. Yumori Tanakaya, Kanto

15. Yunohana Ryokan Manza, Kanto

16. Yamagatakan, Chubu

17. Tagawa Ryusenkaku, Chubu

18. Hikyo-no-yado Yuki-Akari, Chubu

19. Hamachidori-no-yu Kaishu, Kansai

20. Sansuikan Kawayu Midoriya, Kansai

21. Yunosuke-no-yado Chorakuen, Chugoku

22. Hotel Kazurabashi, Shikoku

23. Ryokan Sanga, Kyushu

Mixed Onsens In Hokkaido

1. Kotan-no-yu

 Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by UU Hokkaido, licensed under CEDARS Communications Co.,Ltd
Kotan no Yu: A free open-air hot spring by Lake Kussharo/Untouched Hokkaido/コタンの湯

By the shores of Lake Kussharo in Teshikaga, western Hokkaido, there’s an outdoor stone bath available 24 hours – completely free of charge! 

Visitors can enjoy beautiful dusks during golden hour, surrounded by nature in this konyoku onsen Hokkaido.

While there are separate changing rooms, the mixed onsen is only separated by one large boulder as pictured above. 

As such, bathing towels and swimsuits are allowed. However, there are no amenities or bathing essentials so do bring your own.

Kotan-no-yu is closed during bad weather, and for cleaning on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Getting there:

Train from Sapporo > Kushiro > Kawayu Onsen > bus to Kotan Bunki

  • From Sapporo station, take JR Limited Express Super Ozora to Kushiro station
  • From Kushiro, take the JR Senmo line to Kawayu Onsen station
  • From Kawayu Onsen, take the Akan bus and alight at Kotan Bunki stop

2. Sounkyo Kankou Hotel

 Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by Sounkyo Kankou Hotel, licensed under Otomo Tourism Development Co., Ltd

Located in Asahikawa at the center of Hokkaido, this mixed onsen japan features both cedar and stone open-air baths in the Sounkyo Onsen area.

Their “Utari” mixed onsen is one of the largest in Hokkaido at 300 square meters, which can accommodate large groups of family and friends.

The mixed onsen Hokkaido also overlooks a canyon with cliffs stretching 24km across the Ishikari River of Daisetsuzan National Park, accompanied by the sound of the flowing river right next to the hotel. 

Bathing suits are provided to all, including children, for families to enjoy “Utari” together.

Getting there:

Train from Sapporo > Kamikawa > bus to Sukayu

Mixed Onsens in Tohoku

3. Sukayu

 Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by, and licensed under SUKAYU ONSEN Co.,Ltd

Known for their “hiba sennin-buro” (cypress 1000-person bath), Sukayu is at the foot of Mt. Hakkoda near the Towada-Hachimantai National Park in Aomori. 

The original, rustic building offers a nostalgic glimpse into the olden days of communal bathing. 

The facility is made from locally sourced cypress wood of Aomori Prefecture and houses 5 different baths, the size of a tennis court at 260 square meters! 

Wooden privacy screens and women-only timings are also available for the comfort of guests new to mixed onsen.

Getting there:

From JR Aomori or Shin-Aomori > shuttle or JR bus to Sukayu

  • Overnight guests can reserve the shuttle departing Aomori station at 10:15 and 14:00
  • Alternatively, take the JR bus at east exit of JR Aomori or Shin-Aomori Station
  • JR bus departs 08:00, 10:00 and 12:00, priced at JPY1,400/adult (USD11)

4. Oosawa Onsen

Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by Toujiya, licensed under Oosawa Onsen

Oosawa Onsen is home to 3 different inns in the Hanamaki region of Iwate, by the Toyosawa River with amazing views. 

There’s the modern Sansuikaku, thatch-roofed Kikusuikan, and traditional Toujiya where guests can enjoy a long-term stay.

The inns are connected with bridges and corridors which allow guests to pass through and enjoy the wide variety of onsen. 

While the largest mixed onsen is public and accessible to all guests, each inn offers an exclusive onsen reserved only for its own guests. 

A good reason to stay a night in all 3, a different option from a mixed onsen tokyo!

Getting there:

Train from Tokyo > Shin-Hanamaki > bus to Oosawa Onsen

  • From Tokyo Station, take JR Tohoku Shinkansen to Shin-Hanamaki Station
  • At Shin-Hanamaki, transfer to the shuttle bus and alight at Oosawa Onsen

5. Kyounso

Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by Kyounso, licensed under Matsukawa Onsen Kyounso

Kyounso can be found in Matsukawa Onsen district within Hachimantai National Park in Iwate. This japan mixed gender onsen is secluded and surrounded by beech and oak forest. 

The colorless and transparent water source changes to a rare greenish, milky white from the moment it touches the air and shines like liquid emeralds at night.

Day visitors can access the bath for only JPY600 (USD5) from 08:00 to 19:00. JPY800 (USD6) to include access to the resting hall from 10:00 to 15:00

A lunch menu is available and guests should order at the front desk before 11:00 to be served at 12:00 noon in the hall.

Getting there:

Train from Tokyo > Morioka > bus to Matsukawa Onsen

  • Train from Tokyo station to JR Morioka station
  • At JR Morioka Station East Exit of No. 3, transfer to Iwate Kenpoku Bus
  • Alight at Matsukawa Onsen

Mixed Onsens in Kanto

While modern Japanese laws prohibit mixed onsen in Tokyo, here are 10 other options in the Kanto region easily accessible on day-trips and weekends from the metropolis.

6. Hatcho-no-yu

Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by, and licensed under Hatcho-no-yu

Fun fact: Canadian wood was imported to build this mountain lodge, located at an altitude of 1,300 meters in Nikko, Tochigi with a hot spring source that is 100% natural. 

Hatcho-no-yu has 3 mixed onsen plus a women-only outdoor bath, all with waterfall views surrounded by a forest of beech and nullah trees.

Day visitors should most definitely consider the “1-day Hot Springs” package, which includes lunch and transport at a great value of JPY3,500 (USD27)

Alternatively, it is JPY800 (USD6) for access only. Their shuttle departs from Meotobuchi station at 09:30 and 10:00 (advance reservation by phone required).

Getting there:

Train from Shinjuku/Asakusa > Kinugawa Onsen > bus to Meotobuchi > shuttle to Hatcho-no-yu

  • Train from JR Shinjuku or Asakusa to Kinugawa Onsen station
  • At Kinugawa Onsen station, take municipal bus to Meotobuchi
  • At Meotobuchi, board the shuttle service for overnight visitors and day visitors who reserved 1-day Hot Springs package

7. Manza Prince Hotel

Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by Manza Prince Hotel, licensed under Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide Inc.

Manza Prince Hotel is a stylish onsen resort in Tsumagoi, Gunma. 

At an elevation of 1,800 meters, there are phenomenal views of steam rising from the area’s hot springs. Guests can enjoy this while unwinding at the open-air onsen “Komakusa-no-yu”, pictured above.

There are a total of 6 outdoor hot springs, including one mixed onsen and multiple gender-segregated baths.

Guests can purchase the “Onsen Tour Pass” ticket at the front desk, which entitles holders to free access to all hot springs in the Manza onsen district.

Getting there:

Train from Tokyo > Karuizawa > shuttle to Manza Prince Hotel

  • From Tokyo, take the train to Karuizawa station on Hokuriku Shinkansen Line
  • Board the free shuttle bus from Karuizawa station to Manza Prince Hotel

8. Manza Kogen Hotel

Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by Manza Kogen Hotel, licensed under Seibu Prince Hotels Worldwide Inc.

Over 400 years old, Manza Kogen Hotel is an ideal mix of value, comfort, and convenience. Perfect as a family-friendly accommodation in Tsumagoi, Gunma! 

This is also a popular choice of accommodation for snow sports enthusiasts after an active day on nearby slopes.

There’s a large outdoor bath facility with seven mixed onsen and one female-only bath.

Overlooking a mountain stream, the ‘Sekitei Rotenburo’ features a number of rock baths renowned for their quality spring water and plentiful flows at Manza Kogen Hotel.

Getting there:

Train from Tokyo > Karuizawa > shuttle to Manza Prince Hotel

  • From Tokyo, take the train to Karuizawa station on Hokuriku Shinkansen Line
  • Board the free shuttle bus from Karuizawa station to Manza Kogen Hotel

9. Hoshi Onsen Chojukan

Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by, and licensed under CHOJYUKAN

Chojukan is a stand-alone inn with secluded hot springs located in Hoshi Onsen, Joshinetsu-kogen National Park. 

At 140 years old, the establishment is also a nationally registered tangible cultural property due to the large mixed onsen styled after the Rokumeikan building in the Meiji period.

Their lunch set “Hoshi Gozen” is available from 10:30 to 14:00 at JPY5,500 (USD42). Price includes tax, bathing fee, lunch, and resting fee. 

Availability is limited so remember to reserve early and avoid disappointment! Otherwise, it is JPY1,000 (USD8) for access only. Ladies-only timing is 08:00 to 10:00 in the morning.

Getting there:

Train from Tokyo > Jomo-Kogen > bus to Sarugakyo > bus to Hoshi Onsen

  • From Ueno station in Tokyo, take the Joetsu Shinkansen to Jomo-Kogen station
  • From Jomo-Kogen, transfer onto bus to Sarugakyo
  • At Sarugakyo, board the municipal bus to Hoshi Onsen

10. Sekizenkan

Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by, and licensed under Sekizenkan

Have you watched the movie “Spirited Away”? Sekizenkan is a hotel in Gunma that served as a model for Hayao Miyazaki’s titular Ghibli film and as a filming location for local productions. 

A beautiful hot spring inn serving as inspiration for movies!

Additionally, their hot spring water is well-known as “the cure for 40,000 illnesses” with its high quality.

[As of May 2022] The mixed onsen is temporarily unavailable but both of their private onsen can be rented at JPY3,300 (USD25) for 45 minutes.

Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by, and licensed under Sekizenkan

Getting there:

Train from Tokyo > Nakanojo > bus to Shima Onsen

  • From Tokyo Ueno station, board the Shin-tokkyu Kusatsu-go (New Limited Express Kusatsu) to Nakanojo Station
  • Transfer to the bus at Nakanojo station and alight at Shima Onsen

11. Gorokaku

Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by, and licensed under Gorokaku

Gorokaku in Oigami Onsen, Gunma is known for the beautiful scenery from their mixed onsen “Akagi no Yu”, listed as one of the top 100 national open-air onsen worth visiting in Japan. 

There are a total of six hot springs overlooking the valley: 2 mixed onsen, 1 private onsen for rent and 3 communal onsen separated by gender.

Both mixed onsen offer ladies-only timing in late evenings or early mornings. 

The private onsen can be rented at JPY550 (USD4) for 30 minutes by hotel guests between 14:00 and 22:00 and 08:30 until checkout. It is also available to day visitors between 12:00 and 14:30 at JPY1,100 (USD8) for 30 minutes.

Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by, and licensed under Gorokaku

Getting there:

Train from Tokyo > Jomo-Kogen > shuttle to Gorokaku

  • Take the Tokyo-Joetsu Shinkansen to Jomo-Kogen station
  • Transfer onto shuttle from Jomo-Kogen station to Gorokaku (reservation on phone required by 15:00 the day before)

12. Omaru Onsen Ryokan

Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by, and licensed under Omaru Onsen Ryokan

A hidden hot spring inn, Omaru Onsen Ryokan was built at 1,300m above sea level on Nasu Plateau in Nasu-shiobara.

Enjoy the most abundant supply of natural, wild river hot springs that flow from the source of Okunasu! If you would like to try a mixed onsen away from osaka then give this a go.

The lone building houses 3 mixed onsen, 3 ladies baths, 1 men’s bath and also a private onsen reserved for guests. Day visitors pay JPY1,000 (USD8) for entry between 11:30 to 14:30

Certain days of the week are blocked for day visitors so do call to confirm availability beforehand.

Getting there:

Train from Tokyo > JR Nasu-Shiobara > shuttle bus to Oomaru Onsen Ryokan

  • Shuttle is complimentary but requires reservation 2 days before
  • Shuttle departs Nasu-Shiobara station at 12;40, 13:40 and 14:45
  • Inform shuttle attendant your destination (Oomaru Onsen Ryokan) and name

13. Yusakaso

Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by, and licensed under Yusaka

For mixed gender onsen near Tokyo, Yusakasou offers the nearest and the only mixed onsen in Hakone Yumoto Onsen district. 

Surrounded by a beautiful Japanese garden with rocks from all over the country, guests can enjoy a forest bath within the mountains of Hakone accompanied by sounds of nature and chirping birds.

There are 4 types of baths including a private onsen made of cypress wood, which may be reserved for free (30 minutes) at the reception.

Just note that the mixed onsen is available for ladies-only from 20:00 to 21:00 at night, and closed after midnight for safety.

Getting there:

Shinjuku > Odakyu train > Hakone Tozan bus > Yusakaso

  • Take the Hakone Tozan Route Bus “Hakone Kyukaido-sen (K Line)”
  • Exit the ticket gate and cross the “exit on the left” promenade
  • Go down the stairs and there is a bus stop 50m to the left
  • Please board at Yumoto station platform 4 and alight at “Tai no Chaya Bus Stop”

14. Yumori Tanakaya

Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by, and licensed under Tanakaya
絶景渓流野天風呂と炉端料理が人気の宿【栃木県 塩原温泉 湯守田中屋オリジナルPV】

Located in the popular onsen resort Shiobara by the Hokigawa River in Tochigi, Yumori Tanakaya has eight different free-flowing natural hot spring baths which include a cypress bath, and an outdoor mixed onsen. 

If you would like something different than the mixed gender onsen hakone, try this one out!

Day trips are currently unavailable as the open-air mixed onsen is under repairs and scheduled to reopen in the summer of 2022.

The cypress onsen overflows with water directly from the source and offers unblocked scenery of the ravine, available from 06:00 to 19:20 and gender-segregated between 15:00 and 19:20

Guests can also reserve this as a private onsen for 45 minutes at JPY2,200 (USD17) with the reception starting at 19:30.

Getting there:

Train from Tokyo > JR Nasushiobara > shuttle to Yumori Tanakaya

  • From Tokyo station, board Shinkansen Nasuno Exp. to JR Nasushiobara station
  • From JR Nasushiobara Station West Exit, take the 15:30 shuttle bus to Yumori Tanakaya (reserve by 18:00 the day before)

15.Yunohana Ryokan Manza

Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by, and licensed under Hikyou Onsen Shinpi no Yu
【群馬】万座温泉 湯の花旅館 ~万座一の鄙び宿 *支援募集中! Yunohana Ryokan,Manza Onsen

Within the Manza Onsen district in Gunma, Yunohana Ryokan is the only place in Japan where you can enjoy a bath infused with Ganoderma mushroom – also known as Reishi, Lingzhi or “Saru no Koshikake” in Japanese. 

This fungi is reputed to be therapeutic and healing, for both the body and mind.

The traditional and rustic inn also has an outdoor mixed onsen overlooking the magnificent mountains leading to Motoshirane.

Day visitors can access the onsen from 10:00 to 15:00 at JPY700 (USD5). Weekdays may be crowded as this area is popular with hikers foraging for wild plants.

Getting there:

Train from Tokyo > Takasaki > Manza-Kawaguchi > bus Yunohana Ryokan

  • From Tokyo, take Shinkansen Toki Exp to Takasaki and transfer to JR Agatsuma line to Manza-Kawaguchi station
  • Then take the Seibu Kogen Bus from Manza-Kazawaguchi Station to Yunohana Ryokan

As we can see, the lack of coed onsen Tokyo is no loss with so many other wonderful choices in the Kanto region – all of which are very accessible and serve as great excuses to escape the capital for some relaxation in nature.

Mixed Onsens in Chubu

16. Yamagatakan

Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by, and licensed under Yamagatakan

Within the Kawaura Onsen district of Yamanashi, Yamagatakan offers 12 different baths for guests to enjoy watching the clear streams of Fuefuki river and the colors of the mountains from the outdoor onsen made of giant cypress trees.

Their Shingen-ko rock bath is a mixed onsen from sunrise until 10:00. 10:00 to 16:00 is reserved for men, and ladies-only timing is from 16:00 to 18:00, then ending with mixed onsen again from 18:30 to 22:00

Both private onsens can be rented at JPY3,300 (USD25) for 60 minutes. Day trips are currently unavailable until further notice.

Getting there:

Train from Shinjuku > Enzan > shuttle to Yamagatakan

  • From JR Shinjuku, take Kaiji Ltd Exp on Chuo line and alight at Enzan station
  • Shuttle services from Enzan Station North Exit at 14:10, 15:10, 16:10 (reservation required)

17. Tagawa Ryusenkaku

Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by, and licensed under Tagawa Ryusenkaku

15km southwest of Kanazawa, we find six outdoor hot springs in a rice field overlooking Mt. Haku in the south.

They are the specialty of Tagawa Ryusenkaku, a hot spring inn around the Tatsunokuchi Onsen district in Ishikawa. 

“Tanbo-no-Yu”, their acclaimed mixed onsen with a water source that springs from the center of the rice field, is available from 15:00 to 22:00.

Note that all onsen are unavailable in the mornings and may also be closed during bad weather. Another coed onsen in Japan to look out for.

Getting there:

Train from Tokyo > Kanazawa > Komatsu or Matto > Shuttle to Tagawa Ryusenkaku

  • Train from Tokyo to Kanazawa station, then transfer to JR Komatsu or Matto station
  • Reservation required for shuttle
  • Shuttle from JR Matto station departs 15:15, 16:30, 17:30
  • Shuttle from JR Komatsu departs 14:10, 15:10, 16:15, 17:40

18.Hikyo-no-Yado Yuki-akari

Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by, and licensed under Yuki-Akari

We play and swim in the river during summer to cool off, but ever heard of warming up in a river during snowy winter? Most likely not. 

The large amount of hot water at 54°C turns the flowing Uono River into a natural hot spring at Kiriake Onsen in Akiyamago, Nagano!

Hikyo-no-yado Yuki-Akari is only 2 minutes away from this river’s hot spring.

With two indoor baths and an outdoor mixed onsen of its own, Yuki-Akari is a great place to stay and experience this natural wonder with loved ones.

Getting there:

Train from Tokyo to Echigo-Yuzawa > bus to Tsunan > Mitama > shuttle to Yuki-Akari

  • From Echigo-Yuzawa station, take the bus to Tsunan-choyakubamae
  • From Tsunan-choyakubamae, board the bus to Mitama
  • From Mitama, take the Morimiya Kotsu Bus shuttle to Kiriake Onsen
  • Reservation by phone is required by 17:00 the day before by specifying ” Mitama to Kiriake Onsen Yuki-Akari”, the shuttle will wait for your bus to arrive at Mitama

Mixed Onsens in Kansai

19.Hamachidori-no-yu Kaishu

Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by Kyoritsu Resort, licensed under Kyoritsu Maintenance Co., Ltd

Although it is unfortunate there are no mixed onsen in Kyoto, Hamachidori-no-yu Kaishuu is the nearest option sitting right on the Pacific Ocean in Shirahama Onsen, Wakayama. 

Shirahama Onsen is also the third oldest hot spring in Japan, with a history of more than 1,300 years.

The inn houses 3 different hot springs overlooking the Pacific ocean, each with their own distinctive ambience.

The mixed onsen is closest to the coast, where you can feel at one with the open sky and sea. There’s also 3 private onsens available anytime if vacant, no reservation required.

Getting there:

Train from Shin-Osaka > Shirahama > bus or shuttle to Hamachidori-no-yu Kaishu

  • From Shin-Osaka to JR Shirahama station on Kinokuni line, then either:
  • Transfer to the local bus for “Sandanbeki” and alight at “Sogen no Yu”
  • Take the free shuttle bus, regular, and no reservation is required

20.Sansuikan Kawayu Midoriya

Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by Sansuikan, licensed under Kawayu Midoriya

If you’re still disappointed there’s no mixed bath onsen in Kyoto, let the beautiful outdoor onsen facing Ohto River in Wakayama at Sansuikan Kawayu Midoriya cheer you right up. 

There’s a large mixed onsen with a view of the Ohto River and an outdoor onsen on the riverbank surrounded by the nature of Kumano, another natural river hot spring.

The Kawayu Onsen winter specialty “Sennin Furo” (1000-person bath) is about a 7-minute walk away. 

The water source of about 65°C springs from the bottom of the Oto River, and the temperature adjusts to about 40°C from December to the end of February. A natural wonder of river hot springs.

Getting there:

Train from Shin-Osaka > Kii-Tanabe > bus to Kawayu Onsen

  • From Shin-Osaka station, get off at Kii-Tanabe Station on the JR Kisei Line, then bus to Kawayu Onsen
  • From Nagoya Station, take the JR Kisei Main Line and get off at Shingu Station, then bus to Kawayu Onsen

Thankfully, both Hamachidori-no-yu Kaishu and Sansuikan Kawayu Midoriya in the Kansai region more than make up for the lack of mixed gender onsen in Kyoto – with their distinctive ocean views and natural river hot springs.

Mixed Onsens in Chugoku

21.Yunosuke-no-yado Chorakuen

Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by, and licensed under Chorakuen

Yunosuke-no-ya do Chorakuen is located in the center of the Tamatsukuri Onsen Spa area. 

As suggested by the name, Chorakuen was founded by Yunosuke about 1,300 years ago. His descendants inherited the legacy and the family continues running the hot spring inn today.

“Ryugu-no-yu” is their huge mixed onsen completed in 1909, always supplied with fresh flowing hot springs.

At 400 square meters, this is the largest mixed onsen facility in Japan! There is also 1 private bath for rent and 4 guest rooms with attached outdoor onsen available.

Getting there:

Train from Izumo > Matsue > Tamatsukuri Onsen > Shuttle to Chorakuen

  • Take the train from Izumo airport to Matsue station
  • At Matsue station, take the JR Sanin-Honsen and alight at Tamatsukuri Onsen
  • Board the shuttle to Yunosuke-no-yado Chorakuen
  • Shuttle departs at 15:30 or 18:30 (call to reserve the day before)

Mixed Onsen in Shikoku

22.Hotel Kazurabashi

Mixed Onsen in Japan
Photo by, and licensed under Hotel Kazurabashi

Within the Shin-Iya Onsen district in Tokushima, guests of Hotel Kazurabashi can travel up a hillside by cable car to the outdoor onsen on a cliff overlooking the famed Iya Valley. 

There’s a total of 3 outdoor onsen – one mixed onsen and one for each gender.

Day visitors are also welcome to use all onsen between 10:00 to 16:00 for approximately JPY1,200 (USD9)

The three small wooden buildings along a lovely path behind the hotel all contain private onsen that can be rented for 40 minutes at JPY2000 (USD15) between 15:00 to 21:00.

Getting there:

Train from Shin-Osaka > Okayama > Oboke > bus to Hotel Kazurabashi

  • At Shin-Osaka station, take shinkansen to Okayama station
  • From Okayama station, take JR Limited Express to Oboke station
  • Board the bus to “Hotel Kazurabashi-mae”

Mixed Onsen in Kyushu

23.Ryokan Sanga

Mixed Onsen in Japan

Ryokan Sanga is found secluded in a forest along a mountain stream at Kurokawa Onsen in Kyushu

Their two privately-owned hot springs are 100% natural and free-flowing, where one is medicinal while the other is good for our skin.

Both springs are the sources of seven different types of onsen at the inn – including outdoor baths, indoor baths, tub baths, and 3 private baths. 

“Moyai-no-yu” is their mixed onsen featuring bluish hot water surrounded by nature, pictured above.

Getting there:

Bus from Fukuoka or Kumamoto > bus Kurokawa Onsen > shuttle to Ryokan Sanga

  • Take the bus from Fukuoka or Kumamoto to Kurokawa Onsen
  • Board shuttle from Kurokawa Onsen Bus stop to Ryokan Sanga
  • Please notify your arrival time for staff to greet you at the bus stop

FAQ on Mixed Onsen In Japan

Are There Mixed Onsen In Japan?

Yes, there is mixed onsen in Japan – known as konyoku in Japanese.

Konyoku describes a mixed onsen (hot spring) in Japan and while they are still around, hot spring expert Kyoko Kitade said mixed onsen was practiced at only about 500 hot spring inns and communal baths across Japan in 2021, down from 1,200 or so in 1993.

Can Couples Go To Onsen Together?

Now, you may ask if can couples go to onsen together. 

Couples aren’t allowed to take a bath simultaneously in the majority of onsen today due to gender segregation. However, the private coed onsen in Japan provides you and your special someone with a beautiful bath experience.

In many of these Japanese mixed onsen, you can rent out onsens that are either separate from the guest rooms or offer private onsens. You may spend nice and special moments with your loved one without having to worry about the looks of others.

One experience you could also try is the couple onsen. 

Couples onsens are exclusive locations where you and your partner will not be bothered by other people.

Particularly in rooms with separate onsens, you may spend the entire day with your special someone relaxing in the hot spring without having to leave the room.

Some couple onsens are located in the most beautiful locations in Japan and you can enjoy the breathtaking views while having a bath. Talk about a romantic dating experience!

If you are keen on exploring onsens as a couple, here are The Best Japan Onsen For Couples (21 Romantic Options!)

mixed onsen in Japan

Credits @ Shima Onsen

Do You Have To Be Naked In Mixed Onsen?

Yes, everyone (male/female) is naked in the mixed onsen while in the water but in Japan, onsens for mixed gender will provide wearable towels with straps (known as yugi, 湯着) for your comfort and privacy.

Although uncommon, a few places also allow or even provide rental swimsuits for guests.

How Do Mixed Baths Work In Japan?

In Japan, onsen mixed baths work in such a way that the women have their own bath but can join the men on their side if they are so inclined.

Most baths provide gender-segregated changing rooms and towels for everyone to cover up before entering the mixed baths. Towels can be optional when the water is milky and opaque.

Mixed Onsen Etiquette: Differences?

scope=”col”>Mixed onsen etiquette
Regular onsen etiquette
Au naturale, no towels allowedAu Naturale, no towels allowed
Avoid staring; accidental glances OKAbsolutely NO staring or straying glances
Keep chatting to a minimum, low volumeRefrain from chatting up naked strangers

And of course, remember to always shower and wash clean before entering the onsen – for hygiene and courtesy. 

Ladies (and gentlemen) with fabulous hair past your shoulders, keep your tresses up and out of the water with a stylish, comfortable hair band or hair towel.

For safety, dry properly in the bath area before leaving.

10 Useful Items For Mixed Onsen in Japan

After going on multiple onsen trips, the following are some of the essential items I personally bring along and would recommend for an even better time while enjoying the hot springs in Japan.

What Is A Mixed Onsen Called?

Now what is a mixed onsen called? A mixed onsen in Japan is called a Konyoku. 

If you’re wondering if are there mixed gender onsens in Japan, then yes there are! A mixed gender onsen in Japan entails having both men and women sharing a bathing area.

Although reports of the konyoku onsen go back to the ninth century, many academics thought it had been around far earlier.

In Japan, mixed gender onsen did not start separating the baths for men and women until the time of the Meiji Restoration in 1868

However, the conventional conception of a konyoku onsen in Kyoto has changed to reflect perceptions held by other cultures.

For instance, in order to safeguard their modesty when swimming, the old Konyoku severely prohibited both men and women from donning towels or swimmers.

While men can bathe completely nude, ladies are being given robes to drape over their bodies. 

mixed onsen in Japan

Credits @ Hotaka Onsen

What Is Onsen In Japan?

Before records were created, Japanese onsens were already out there. These are hot water springs enriched with minerals where people can take a bath in. 

Numerous islands in the nation are home to thousands of them. Onsens may be standalone or affixed to a guesthouse or ryokan.

The pools are typically divided into different gender-specific areas by barriers, designated bathing spaces, or alternate bathing hours.

The water is pumped into ryokans or other buildings, where it is then controlled at different temperatures. There are sizable indoor onsens for both sexes in many outlets. 

They frequently have multiple pools with floor-to-ceiling windows that face out into a scenic view of a garden or river. Real boulders may be utilized to decorate the inside and different tropical plants are its decorations. 

Regardless of the location, whether it is a mixed onsen in Tokyo or a mixed onsen in Osaka, it stands out as a place for relaxation, quiet reflection, and casual conversation.

mixed onsen in Japan

How Does Onsen Work In Japan?

Onsen bathing is subject to a number of etiquette regulations, which can make the experience intimidating and unsettling for those who are unfamiliar with it.

However, once you’ve tried it, you’ll discover that it’s actually not that difficult. Here are some guidelines with a Japan coed onsen:

1. Shower First Before Getting Into The Mixed Onsens In Japan

To maintain the cleanliness and purity of the water, the Japanese always shower before taking a bath, even when doing so privately at home. This practice is even more crucial when taking a communal onsen or any mixed onsens in Japan.

mixed onsen in Japan

2. Tie Up Your Long Hair

The reason behind this rule is simple. Would you want to be bathing in an onsen and seeing pieces of hair floating around you?

I’m guessing the answer is no because that is gross and would make me jump out of the onsen even if it was one of the Tokyo mixed onsen.

Tying up long hair is just a hygiene practice that should be followed by all. 

3. Get Naked

Yeap, it’s all about the birthday suit in an onsen! 

It is not a common concept and it makes sense to be apprehensive, however, once you notice how unfazed the Japanese are by it, it will not bug you as much.

4. Keep The Noise To A Minimal

The onsens are all about peace and tranquility. Be aware of how much noise you’re making once you’re in the water. No chitchats and big boisterous laughs that could interrupt the quiet moments of other visitors. 

5. No Drinking Prior To Bathing

This etiquette speaks for itself. 

The onsen and sento will typically have signs warning you not to drink and bathe. Nobody wants an intoxicated person wandering around the facility creating racket for the rest of the visitors!

mixed onsen in Japan

How to Book a Stay at Japan Mixed Hot Springs?

The following are some of the websites I use to book stays at hot spring inns or hotels, for more time to slowly relax and enjoy the mixed onsen overnight. 

Search with these terms for a specific location search result:

  • mixed onsen Kyoto
  • mixed gender onsen osaka
  • mixed gender onsen Tokyo
  • mixed onsen Hakone
  • chojukan onsen ryokan
  • konyoku Osaka

1. Book directly with the accommodation on the official website or by phone

2. Agoda

3. Booking.com

4. Jalan.net

5. Japanican

Excited To Try A Coed Onsen In Japan Now?

Now that you have exclusive insights into mixed onsen in Japan, how about planning a trip to experience a unique vacation as a couple or family? 

If you’ve already been to any of the mixed onsen listed above, please share your experience with us in the comments below.

Feel free to also tell us if you’ve been to a different mixed onsen which should be included in this list – we would love to hear all about it from you.

Not going to these mixed gender onsen japan anytime soon? You can still enjoy these onsen bath salts in the comforts of your home. Hope you have a wonderful time at a mixed onsen in Japan!

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