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Legends and Festivals of Japan's Onsen Towns: Stories and Smiles Await

2025-08-02・OnsenTravelOmotenashiLegendsFestivals

Introduction: Onsen Are More Than Just Hot Springs

Japan’s hot springs (onsen) are not only places for relaxation — they are cultural treasures filled with legends, folklore, and seasonal festivals.
These stories enrich the onsen experience, turning a simple bath into a deeper cultural journey.
In this article, we explore the most famous legends and festivals of onsen towns, and share a lighthearted onsen etiquette story to bring a smile to your face.

Famous Onsen Legends

The White Heron Legend – Dogo Onsen (Ehime)

A white heron with an injured leg bathed in the hot spring every day.
Its wound healed, and it flew away. Locals, inspired by this, began bathing there — marking the start of Dogo Onsen.
Official Dogo Onsen Website

The Crane Legend – Kinosaki Onsen (Hyogo)

A crane, symbolizing longevity in Japan, healed its wounds in the hot spring.
Since then, Kinosaki has been known as a place of healing.
Official Kinosaki Onsen Website

The Gods’ Hot Spring – Arima Onsen (Hyogo)

Over 1,300 years ago, according to legend, the gods discovered these springs and spread their healing waters.
Arima is famous for its two types of waters: "Gold" and "Silver" springs.
Official Arima Onsen Website

Vibrant Onsen Festivals

Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival (Oita)

Held every spring, this festival includes free access to public baths, parades, and sacred hot water processions.
Beppu City Tourism Association

Yumomi Performance – Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma)

A charming performance where women stir hot spring water with large wooden paddles while singing folk songs.
It’s done to cool down the hot water before bathing.
Kusatsu Onsen Tourism Association

Gero Onsen Hanabi Musical (Gifu)

A fireworks show synchronized with music, illuminating the river that flows through the onsen town.
Gero Onsen Tourism Association

A Lighthearted Onsen Etiquette Story

At a traditional ryokan, a first-time overseas guest tried the Japanese-style onsen experience.
After undressing in the changing room, they carried their small towel (tenugui) into the bath area.
But instead of leaving it outside or placing it on their head — as is Japanese custom —
they covered their entire body with the towel for modesty and stepped right into the bath.

The staff quickly explained, “In Japan, towels should not go into the bath water.”
The guest laughed and replied, “Oh, it’s for modesty?”
Everyone chuckled, and the bathhouse was filled with a warm, friendly atmosphere.

Tip: In Japan, it’s customary to keep towels out of the bathwater — place them on your head or leave them on the side.

Conclusion: Stories and Smiles in Every Onsen Town

Onsen are not just about soaking in hot water — they’re about connecting with centuries-old traditions, sharing stories, and sometimes sharing a laugh.
The legends and festivals give depth to the experience, and small moments like these create memories that last long after you leave.

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