As I stepped off the plane in Japan, I knew I was in for a treat with the country’s famous hot tours. From steaming onsen baths to sizzling street food tours, Japan offers a wealth of ‘hot’ experiences that will warm both body and soul. In this guide, I’ll take you through 10 must-try hot tours in Japan that I’ve personally experienced and loved. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Japan traveler, these tours promise to add some heat to your itinerary!
1. Traditional Onsen Tour in Hakone
As I embarked on my journey through Japan’s hot tours, my first stop was the enchanting town of Hakone for a traditional onsen experience. This picturesque region, known for its hot springs and stunning views of Mount Fuji, offers a perfect introduction to Japan’s bathing culture.
During the tour, I visited several ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) each offering unique onsen experiences. From outdoor baths surrounded by lush forests to indoor pools with mineral-rich waters, every soak was a blissful retreat. One particularly memorable moment was relaxing in a rotenburo (open-air bath) as the sun set behind Mount Fuji, painting the sky in vibrant hues.
Pro tip: Don’t miss the chance to try a kakeyu (steam footbath) between onsen visits. It’s a great way to relax and rejuvenate your feet!
The tour also included a visit to the famous Owakudani Valley, where I sampled the local delicacy – black eggs boiled in sulfuric hot springs. It was a truly unique experience that perfectly complemented the soothing onsen baths.
2. Mount Fuji Hot Springs Adventure
After experiencing the tranquility of Hakone, I was eager to embark on my next adventure: the Mount Fuji Hot Springs tour. This exhilarating experience combines the awe-inspiring views of Japan’s most iconic mountain with the soothing comfort of natural hot springs.
As I approached the majestic Mount Fuji, I was struck by its imposing presence. The tour began with a gentle hike along the lower slopes, allowing me to immerse myself in the stunning natural surroundings. Throughout the journey, our knowledgeable guide shared fascinating facts about the mountain’s geological history and cultural significance.
The highlight of the tour, however, was undoubtedly the hot springs experience. After the invigorating hike, I was more than ready to soak in the therapeutic waters. The outdoor onsen, with its panoramic views of Mount Fuji, provided a truly unforgettable moment. As I relaxed in the steaming pool, I couldn’t help but feel a deep connection to the natural beauty around me.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji from the hot springs!
3. Sapporo Beer and Ramen Hot Tour
As I stepped into the bustling streets of Sapporo, I knew I was in for a treat with the city’s famous Beer and Ramen Hot Tour. This gastronomic adventure combines two of Japan’s most beloved comfort foods: ice-cold beer and steaming hot ramen.
First on the itinerary was the Sapporo Beer Museum. Here, I learned about the brewing process and, more importantly, sampled some of the freshest beer I’ve ever tasted. The crisp, malty flavor was the perfect prelude to what came next.
After whetting our appetites, we moved on to Ramen Alley, a narrow street packed with tiny ramen shops. The air was thick with the aroma of rich broths and freshly cooked noodles. I slurped my way through a bowl of Sapporo’s signature miso ramen, its hot, savory broth warming me from the inside out.
Pro tip: Save room for the local specialty – ‘soup curry’. It’s a spicy, comforting dish that perfectly complements the beer and ramen experience.
This tour is a must for food lovers visiting Hokkaido. Not only did it satisfy my taste buds, but it also offered a glimpse into Sapporo’s rich culinary culture.
4. Kyoto’s Steamy Tea Ceremony Experience
During my visit to Kyoto, I had the privilege of participating in a traditional tea ceremony, an experience that was both literally and figuratively steamy. As I entered the traditional tea house, I was immediately enveloped by the warm, fragrant air. The ceremony began with our host meticulously preparing the tea, each movement precise and graceful.
What struck me most was the intentionality behind every aspect of the ceremony. From the carefully selected tea utensils to the precise water temperature, everything was designed to create the perfect cup of matcha. As I sipped the frothy green tea, I could feel its warmth spreading through my body, a stark contrast to the cool tatami mats beneath me.
Pro-tip: To fully appreciate the experience, take a moment to observe the intricate details of the tea bowl before drinking.
This steamy tea ceremony offered more than just a delicious drink; it provided a window into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. The experience left me with a newfound appreciation for the art of tea and the importance of mindfulness in Japanese culture.
5. Hot Spring Hopping in Beppu
As I arrived in Beppu, I was immediately enveloped by the steam rising from the countless hot springs dotting the city. This charming town on Kyushu island is renowned for its abundance of onsen, and I couldn’t wait to embark on a hot spring hopping adventure.
My tour began at the famous “Hells of Beppu,” a series of colorful, steaming hot springs. Although these are too hot for bathing, they provide a spectacular sight. The vibrant blue waters of Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) and the blood-red pool of Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell) were particularly mesmerizing.
Next, I indulged in the town’s numerous public bathhouses. From traditional wooden structures to modern facilities, each onsen offered a unique experience. One of my favorites was the sand bath, where I was buried in naturally heated volcanic sand – a truly unique and rejuvenating experience!
Pro tip: Don’t miss the chance to try a steam-cooked meal, where food is prepared using the natural heat from the hot springs.
6. Tokyo’s Sizzling Street Food Tour
As I ventured into the bustling streets of Tokyo, I was immediately enveloped by the tantalizing aromas of sizzling street food. This hot tour is a feast for the senses, offering a unique way to experience the city’s vibrant culinary scene. From steaming takoyaki to crispy yakitori, the variety of dishes is truly impressive.
One of the highlights of the tour was exploring the narrow alleys of Omoide Yokocho, also known as “Memory Lane”. Here, I sampled some of the most authentic and delicious street food Tokyo has to offer. The tour guide was incredibly knowledgeable, providing fascinating insights into the history and preparation of each dish.
Pro-tip: Come hungry and pace yourself! There’s so much to try, you’ll want to save room for everything.
Furthermore, the tour isn’t just about food. It’s an immersive cultural experience that allows you to interact with local vendors and fellow food enthusiasts. By the end of the tour, I felt I had not only satisfied my taste buds but also gained a deeper understanding of Tokyo’s food culture.
7. Volcanic Hot Sand Bath in Ibusuki
When I first heard about the volcanic hot sand baths in Ibusuki, I was both intrigued and slightly apprehensive. However, this unique experience quickly became one of the highlights of my Japanese hot tour adventures. Located in the southern part of Kyushu, Ibusuki is famous for its sunamushi onsen, or sand bath hot springs.
Upon arrival, I was provided with a yukata (light cotton kimono) and led to the beach. There, I lay down in a shallow pit as attendants gently covered me with warm volcanic sand, leaving only my head exposed. The weight of the sand, combined with its natural heat, created an incredibly soothing sensation. Moreover, the sand’s unique properties are said to offer various health benefits.
Pro tip: While the standard session lasts about 10-15 minutes, I recommend starting with a shorter duration if it’s your first time, especially on a hot day.
After the sand bath, I rinsed off and relaxed in a traditional hot spring, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. This extraordinary experience perfectly blends nature’s healing power with Japan’s onsen culture, making it a must-try for any hot tour enthusiast.
8. Okinawa’s Hot Yoga Retreat
When I arrived in Okinawa, I was eager to experience the island’s unique blend of relaxation and fitness through its hot yoga retreats. These retreats offer a perfect balance of intense workouts and serene moments, all set against the backdrop of Okinawa’s stunning tropical scenery.
During my stay, I participated in daily hot yoga sessions held in studios overlooking the azure waters of the East China Sea. The combination of challenging poses and the humid Okinawan climate created an incredibly detoxifying experience. Moreover, the retreat included meditation sessions on the beach at sunrise, which I found both invigorating and calming.
One of the highlights of the retreat was the opportunity to learn about Okinawan longevity secrets. Interestingly, the island is known for having some of the longest-living people in the world. As part of the program, we were treated to nutritious, locally-sourced meals that incorporated traditional Okinawan ingredients known for their health benefits.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to pack light, breathable yoga wear and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during the hot yoga sessions!
9. Spicy Cuisine Tour in Nagoya
As I ventured into Nagoya, I discovered that this city is a hidden gem for spice lovers. The Spicy Cuisine Tour in Nagoya took my taste buds on an exhilarating journey through the city’s fiery culinary landscape. From the moment I started, I knew I was in for a treat.
First and foremost, I sampled the famous Nagoya-style Taiwan Ramen, a dish that packs a serious punch. The combination of spicy minced pork, garlic chives, and bean sprouts atop steaming noodles left me craving more. Next on the tour, I tried the local specialty, Miso Katsu – a crispy pork cutlet smothered in a thick, spicy miso sauce that tingles the tongue.
To cool down between spicy bites, the tour thoughtfully included stops at local breweries to sample Nagoya’s craft beers. This experience not only satisfied my craving for heat but also provided a fascinating insight into Nagoya’s unique culinary culture. If you’re a fan of spicy food, this tour is an absolute must-try!
10. Hot Air Balloon Ride over Nara
As I soared high above the ancient city of Nara in a hot air balloon, I was struck by the breathtaking panorama that unfolded beneath me. This exhilarating experience offered a unique perspective of Japan’s first permanent capital, combining the thrill of flight with stunning historical views.
The tour typically begins at dawn, when the air is crisp and still. As we gently ascended, I watched the sun slowly rise over the horizon, casting a warm glow over Nara’s iconic landmarks. From this vantage point, I could clearly see the expansive Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer, and the magnificent Todaiji Temple, housing the largest bronze Buddha statue in Japan.
While this may not be a “hot” tour in the traditional sense, the excitement and warmth of the experience certainly qualify it as a must-try adventure. Moreover, many operators offer a celebratory toast with hot sake upon landing, adding a delightful Japanese twist to this unforgettable journey.
Pro-tip: Don’t forget to bring a camera with a good zoom lens to capture the incredible aerial views of Nara’s UNESCO World Heritage sites!
