A truly charming small onsen ryokan run by a local family in Kawazu, Shizuoka Prefecture. The property has perfect access by the famed Kawazu Loop, with easy access to the well-loved seven waterfalls of Nanadaru and its swimsuit friendly public onsen, along with many of the hiking trails. In an area beloved for its cherry blossoms, and a perfect stop over point between Tokyo to Osaka and Kyoto.

A picturesque onsen ryokan lit by oil lamps hidden in a valley deep in the mountains of Kuroishi, Aomori Prefecture. Four stunning public onsens to soak in and admire the natural beauty surrounding you. No reception in the area, or electricity in the rooms - a perfect place to go off the grid for a couple nights. Especially beautiful to enjoy yukimi-buro (snow viewing bath) in winter, but lovely in all seasons. Day trips are also possible.

A local family-run onsen ryokan in Towada, perfectly situated between Hakkoda Mountains, Oirase Gorge and Lake Towada in Aomori, Japan. Rooms are traditional Japanese tatami rooms, whilst dinners are a delicious traditional Japanese kaiseki feast full of local flavours and specialties. There is also a private onsen available for reservation.