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The Cheapest Onsen to Soak Up All of Japan’s Atmosphere

From transportation to accommodation, we all know how ridiculously expensive Japan can be. Would you believe us if we say there’s a way for you to soak up Japan’s atmosphere without burning a hole in your pocket? Read on as we list down some of the cheapest but extremely cosy onsen for your budget Japan holiday!

1. Spa World, Osaka

Any huge fan onsen would have probably heard of Spa World, known as one of the classic Japan experience. Simply put, it’s a must visit for travellers from all around the world.

Spa World Osaka

Spa World has two types of onsen: European and Asian styled onsen. Spa World designed their onsen to be spacious with all sorts of treatments and facilities.

Spa World Osaka

Because of its impeccable facilities, treatments and variety of onsens, Spa World experienced an influx of visitors. If you wish to enjoy a quiet soak with zero disturbance, beat the crowd by booking in advance or make use of its 24 hours facilities by visiting Spa World when Japan is sleeping.

Take a dip in one of the biggest osen here!

2. Ooedo-Onsen Monogatari, Tokyo

Oedo Onsen Osaka, Spa, Bathhouse, Edo

Based off the Edo period, Ooedo-Onsen Monogatari reminds Japanese of a time when Japan enjoys great economic growth and arts and culture. Although not as huge as Spa World, Ooedo-Onsen Monogatari is still a great place for you to kill time.

Oedo Onsen Osaka, Entrance, Park, Spa, Bathhouse
Photo credit: Flickr

Ooedo-Onsen Monogatari is actually also the best place for backpackers to stay in Tokyo — the lounge on second floor of Ooedo-Onsen Monogatari has loads of sofa, each coming with their own blanket. All you have to do is get the tickets to Ooedo-Onsen Monogatari, pay a small late-night fee and you’re set for the night. Talk about cost-saving!

Make the best out of your money and take a short 20 minutes walk to Madame Tussauds Tokyo from Ooedo-Onsen Monogatari to meet your celebrities (totally worth it, even if they’re a wax figure).

3. Daiyokujo, Kyoto Tower

Photo credit: Flickr

Located at the basement of Kyoto Tower, Daiyokujo literally means huge bathtub in Japanese. Unlike the previous two bathhouses built on the basis of providing entertainment to visitors, Daiyokujo is a legit public bathhouse for Japanese.

Kyoto Tower Daiyokujo, public bath, basement,

Do go early to immerse in the Japanese culture — You’ll probably spot a queue snaking outside a little before 7am, the prime time for Japanese to freshen up in Daiyokujo and get ready for their day. Daiyokujo closes at 10pm, allowing its last customers to enter at 9.30pm. Japanese tend to finish their business quickly so don’t mind the weird looks you get when you stay in the small spa to relax.

Onsen experience, checked. It’s time to hit the streets for Japan‘s food and experience their culture! Here’s how you can do all of these on a budget:

>> 10 Must Eat Street Food in Japan
>> These 5 Pocket Friendly Eateries Will let You Enjoy Tokyo on a Budget
>> How to Get to These 5 Suburbs of Tokyo via Tokyo Metro

Looking for discounted activities around Japan?

>> National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation
>> Madame Tussauds Tokyo Ticket
>> Tokyo Tower Observatory e-Ticket

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