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Yubara Onsen (in north Okayama, 湯原温泉)

Simple alkalinity water. They say the best open-air bath in the west Japan. 露天風呂、西の横綱

Iya Onsen (in Tokushima, 祖谷温泉)

Simple hydrogen sulfide water. One of the 3 secret Onsen in Japan 三大秘湯の１つ
Taking a cable car to the bottom of the valley

Onsen in Japan are more than just a place for recreational relaxation, they're an integral part of Japanese life and culture! There are thousands of onsen (hot springs) scattered throughout the country. You won't find any posted rules at onsen, because everyone in Japan already knows them. So, for the foreigner who might not be aware: ..

1. You don't bathe in an Onsen, you wash and rinse yourself thoroughly before going into the warm water. If it is an outdoor onsen and there are no other washing facilities available, you should rinse yourself out of the onsen with warm water from a bucket a few times before entering

2. Bathing suits are usually NOT allowed, even in mixed bathing areas (men's and women's areas are usually separated).

3. If no one else is around, you can swim about in the warm water. If there are other people present, one generally finds a nice relaxing place and reclines in the water.

4. Most Onsen have signs saying 'no tattoos' (or sometimes very amusing graphical signs indicating the same). This is to show that the onsen are not aligned with Yakuza, and that they aren't welcomed. American tattoos are generally politely overlooked.

5. Souvenirs are often available, including special soaps and small commemorative towels.

Okutsu Onsen (in north Okayama, 奥津温泉)

Simple alkalinity water. So called Bijin (a beautiful woman) no Yu 美人の湯,. Good for women.

Yunogou Onsen (in north Okayama, 湯郷温泉)

Alkalinity water (Na, Ca, Cl). 1200-years history. 鷺の湯　Nickname: the white heron Onsen.