South of Seoul lies Onyang, Korea’s oldest hot spring resort, famed for waters that have drawn emperors and scholars since the Baekje kingdom. The town’s bathhouses and hotels still channel these mineral springs, offering soaks said to ease circulation and restore energy. Beyond the baths, Onyang reveals a slower pace — tree-lined boulevards, local markets, and a legacy of healing rituals woven into everyday life. It’s both a retreat from the capital and a living link to Korea’s centuries-old bathing tradition.

Tucked into the mountains just outside Kobe, Arima is one of Japan’s oldest and most prestigious hot spring towns. Its waters are famed for their distinct colours: the golden, iron-rich kinsen and the clear, carbonated ginsen, each said to carry unique healing properties. Narrow lanes are lined with traditional ryokan, wooden bathhouses, and shops selling local crafts and sweets. With its proximity to Osaka and Kyoto, Arima has long drawn emperors, poets, and travellers seeking both rest and refinement. Today, it remains a timeless retreat where bathing, history, and quiet mountain air converge.

Set in the hills west of Tokyo, Hakone is a classic onsen escape framed by forests, lakes, and views of Mount Fuji. Bathhouses and ryokan here draw from volcanic springs, offering everything from rustic outdoor pools to sleek modern spas. Beyond bathing, Hakone charms with art museums, lakeside cruises, and the iconic red torii gate rising from Lake Ashi. Ropeways and mountain trains connect its scattered villages, making the journey itself part of the experience. Hakone balances ease of access with scenic calm — a place where Japan’s onsen tradition meets cultural richness and natural beauty.

Japan’s dynamic capital is a kaleidoscope of contrasts: ancient shrines and futuristic skylines, serene gardens and high-energy neighbourhoods. Begin your journey in this dazzling metropolis where tradition and innovation coexist at every turn. Wander through the peaceful grounds of Meiji Shrine, explore the artisan shops of Asakusa, and take in sweeping city views from the top of Shibuya Sky or Tokyo Tower. Whether you're sipping matcha in a quiet tea house or soaking in an urban onsen with skyline views, Tokyo is the perfect introduction to modern Japan—with pockets of calm always close by.