Osaka, Japan’s third-largest city, is often overlooked in favor of Tokyo or Kyoto, but it holds a hidden gem for those seeking solace in the soothing waters of an onsen. Spa World is a unique establishment in Osaka, offering two floors of themed hot spring baths that replicate the bathing cultures of various countries. The European floor boasts a Greek medicinal bath, Finnish sauna, and an Atlantic Ocean-inspired bath, while the Asian floor tempts you with a Bali resort-style bath, a Persian bath adorned with turquoise tiles, and the quintessential Japanese cypress bath.
But the onsen experience in Osaka is not just limited to Spa World. In the city outskirts, nestled amidst nature, you’ll find the tranquil Takino Onsen. This secluded onsen is renowned for its ryokan, Takino Kanko Hotel, which provides private open-air hot spring baths attached to the guest rooms. Here, the water is alkaline and known for its skin-beautifying properties. Apart from enjoying the hot springs, guests can also indulge in the local, seasonal Kansai cuisine, adding another dimension to their Osaka onsen experience.
