Soak in natural baths at Ginzan Onsen
Sendai, Japan • 
Underrated
Underrated
Best months to visit
Jan, Feb, May
-3°C – 3°C, cold temperatures with frequent snowfall, creating a picturesque winter landscape, high crowds, peak season
-3°C – 3°C, cold temperatures with frequent snowfall, creating a picturesque winter landscape, high crowds, peak season
Walking required
Yes
Uneven terrain; stairs; limited wheelchair access.
Uneven terrain; stairs; limited wheelchair access.
Value for money
Medium
High prices, but the experience is uniquely memorable.
High prices, but the experience is uniquely memorable.
Highlights we curated for you
See what similar travellers think of this activity
C
Reviews from other travelers
Summarised by AI
Romantic Getaway
Couples loved the enchanting atmosphere and private onsen options. Perfect for a romantic trip!
Magical Experience
The snow-covered scenery created a truly unforgettable and magical experience for couples.
Relaxing Retreat
Visitors felt relaxed in the traditional hot springs and serene environment. A perfect escape.
Overcrowded Town
Couples found the town very crowded, especially in winter. Detracts from the peace.
Pricey Lodging
Many ryokans are expensive, especially with meals. Budget carefully for your stay.
Limited Activities
Some couples felt that there was not much to do beyond the onsen and strolling.
How to book
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Hours of operation
Monday
6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday
6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday
6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Thursday
6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday
6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday
6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday
6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
In-depth experience
May contain spoilers
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When to visit
We've analysed user reviews and geographical data, and identified the best and worst months to visit.
Month
Crowd Level
Weather
Availability
Our recommendation
December
HIGH
0-10°C
Cold temperatures with occasional snowfall.
Cold temperatures with occasional snowfall.
Open
High demand; early booking recommended. Visitor caps in place from December 23 to March.
High demand; early booking recommended. Visitor caps in place from December 23 to March.
Recommended
December's snowy landscapes create a picturesque setting, attracting many visitors. From December 23, visitor caps are implemented to preserve the town's charm; early booking is essential.
December's snowy landscapes create a picturesque setting, attracting many visitors. From December 23, visitor caps are implemented to preserve the town's charm; early booking is essential.
January
HIGH
-3-3°C
Cold temperatures with frequent snowfall, creating a picturesque winter landscape.
Cold temperatures with frequent snowfall, creating a picturesque winter landscape.
Open
From January 7 to March 31, 2025, day visitors between 5pm and 8pm require advance reservations; after 8pm, only overnight guests are permitted.
From January 7 to March 31, 2025, day visitors between 5pm and 8pm require advance reservations; after 8pm, only overnight guests are permitted.
Recommended
January offers a snowy wonderland ideal for hot spring experiences. Due to high demand, it's advisable to book accommodations and any required reservations well in advance.
January offers a snowy wonderland ideal for hot spring experiences. Due to high demand, it's advisable to book accommodations and any required reservations well in advance.
February
HIGH
-3-4°C
Cold with occasional snowfall, maintaining the winter ambiance.
Cold with occasional snowfall, maintaining the winter ambiance.
Open
Day visitors between 5pm and 8pm require advance reservations; after 8pm, only overnight guests are permitted.
Day visitors between 5pm and 8pm require advance reservations; after 8pm, only overnight guests are permitted.
Recommended
February continues the winter charm with snowy landscapes. Ensure to make reservations ahead of time due to ongoing visitor restrictions.
February continues the winter charm with snowy landscapes. Ensure to make reservations ahead of time due to ongoing visitor restrictions.
March
MEDIUM
2-10°C
Transitioning from winter to spring; snow begins to melt, and temperatures rise.
Transitioning from winter to spring; snow begins to melt, and temperatures rise.
Open
Day visitors between 5pm and 8pm require advance reservations; after 8pm, only overnight guests are permitted.
Day visitors between 5pm and 8pm require advance reservations; after 8pm, only overnight guests are permitted.
Recommended
March offers a blend of winter and spring experiences. Visitor restrictions remain until the end of the month; plan accordingly.
March offers a blend of winter and spring experiences. Visitor restrictions remain until the end of the month; plan accordingly.
How to get there
Bus
Recommended
Take a highway bus from Sendai Station to Obanazawa Machiaijo, then transfer to a local bus to Ginzan Onsen. Alternatively, take a local bus from JR Oishida Station.
Train
Recommended
Take the JR Yamagata Shinkansen 'Tsubasa' train from Tokyo Station or the JR Senzan Line and JR Ou Main Line from Sendai Station to JR Oishida Station, then transfer to a local bus.
Car
Drive to Ginzan Onsen, but park at designated lots outside the town center. During winter, use the Taisho Romankan parking lot and a shuttle bus.
Shuttle
Many ryokans offer shuttle services from JR Oishida Station; arrange this with your accommodation in advance.
Taxi
Taxis are available from JR Oishida Station for a direct ride to Ginzan Onsen.
Additional info
Here's what you need to know about this experience
Mobility
Wheelchair Accessible
Walking Required
Stairs Present
Seating Available
Flat Terrain
Hiking Required
Elevator Available
Mobility Scooter Friendly
Ramps Available
Pregnancy
Suitable for pregnancy
Allowed during pregnancy
Pets
Pets not allowed
Driving
Driving License Required
Idp Required