Do you require a brief period of rest and recuperation? Speaking about the ultimate in bathing, nothing can beat natural hot springs. A soak in an onsen or hot spring offers a unique opportunity to relax in an unparalleled way. If you are seeking to incorporate stress-relieving activities into your next vacation, then unwinding by immersing yourself in nature's hot springs is an excellent option. The simple act of immersing oneself in the waters allows the body to release tension, fatigue and stress. These are many wonderful experiences that can be incorporated into a holiday itinerary in Asia.
Kurokawa Onsen (Japan)
Kurokawa Onsen is a lesser-known attraction that has gained a reputation as one of Kyushu's best-kept secrets. The hot spring town is situated in a verdant forest valley. One of the town's distinctive features is its traditional appearance and ambience. Its rustic charm, coupled with a rich cultural and historical heritage, contributes to its unique appeal. The area is free from the commercialisation of hotels, the bright neon signage and the skyscraper buildings that are common in other locations. A number of Japanese-style inns are located along the streets, offering guests the opportunity to stay and enjoy the benefits of one of their hot spring baths.
Tatopani (Nepal)
The Hot Spring situated near the Sino-Nepal Friendship Bridge and surrounded by dramatic granite mountains and a cascading whitewater river, has gained recognition among locals for its reputed curative properties. The rich minerals in the water are believed to have detoxifying properties, as well as being effective in relieving symptoms of rheumatism and relaxing stiff muscles. The water contains a substantial amount of black salt and phosphorus, both of which are natural antibiotics. The most straightforward way to reach the destination is to join a hiking tour in Kathmandu that will pass by the hot spring. This will provide a relaxing stop that will leave you feeling re-energised.
Yufuin Hot Springs (Japan)
You might have heard of the famed Beppu resort area, but the nearby town of Yufuin is the Kyushu hot spring for those really in the know. Yufuin Sansou Murata, a seriously luxurious retreat in the mountains, is built on a four-acre parcel of land, offering impressive views. Each of its 12 accommodations is a lodge from the Meiji (1868-1912) or Shōwa (1926-1989) periods. The sparse layout and in-room baths offer optimal privacy, while guests can also find plenty of amenities on-site, from the hotel's soba restaurant to a private art museum and a bar filled with the sounds of jazz.