History
A Brief History of Japanese Onsen
(Ancient) From Nara to Heian period
Hot springs have a long history in Japan and much is not known about the early days. But they do exisit on one earliest historical documents (e.g. Kojiki). The more notable ones to come out from these are the "Dogo Onsen", "Shirahama Onsen" and "Arima Onsen". They Were thought to be used for spiritual purifications and medicianl purposes.
710-1185 AD(Medieval) Kamakura to Azuchi-Momoyama Period
The Kamakura period marked a shift in the political center from Kyoto to Kanto, leading to the mention of various hot springs in literature, including those in Kanto, Tokai, Tohoku and Koshinetsu. Notably, Atami and Izu-Yama Hot Springs in Shizuoka were frequented by warriors and monks. Kusatsu, Arima, and Gero emerged as "Japan's Three Famous Springs" due to their prominence in literary works. The Sengoku period saw wounded soldiers seeking treatment at these springs. The renowned Beppu Onsen in Oita and Arima Hot Spring in Hyogo have rich histories, with the latter being revitalized post a major flood. These hot springs have long been centers of healing, drawing nobles, warriors, and monks alike.
1192-1603 AD(Modern) Edo Period
During the "Edo period" or early modern period, which began after Tokugawa Ieyasu established the shogunate in Edo in 1603, Japan saw significant infrastructural developments like the establishment of domains and the development of major roads to Edo. Travel, however, was regulated with checkpoints, and only those with a "travel pass" could move freely. Documents from this era reveal the popularity of hot springs among both the elite and commoners. Notably, "Gokumuto" involved transporting hot spring water from places like Atami and Kusatsu to Edo Castle for the shogun's baths. While shoguns and daimyos indulged in these therapeutic waters, commoners, after receiving permission, typically underwent spa treatments for around three weeks. Many travelers, en route to religious pilgrimages, preferred staying at hot springs, with "Hakone's Seven Springs" being a notable destination. The period saw widespread appreciation and use of hot springs across all classes.
1603-1868 AD(Modern) Meiji period to early Showa period
In the modern era, beginning with the Meiji Restoration in 1868, Japan experienced rapid modernization. Western medicine was introduced, with Dr. Erwin Baelz, a German physician, playing a pivotal role in advancing hot spring medicine. He significantly influenced the development of renowned hot springs like Kusatsu, Ikaho, and Hakone. The Meiji government's first national survey in 1886 recognized the importance of hot springs. This period saw hot springs evolve from purely therapeutic sites to recreational hubs, with places like Atami, Beppu, and Gora-Hakone experiencing growth. The Taisho era introduced resort villas in Atami and Hakone, combining therapeutic and leisure functions. The Showa period's railway expansion, including both national and private lines, made hot springs like Minakami, Gero, Hakone, and Kinugawa more accessible. World War II saw hot springs serve as refuge and recuperation centers. The era marked extensive hot spring development, boosted by advancements in transportation.
1868-1945 AD(Modern) Post WWII
Post-World War II Japan experienced a reconstruction phase, during which many visited hot springs, often bringing their own food due to scarcity. As the country entered a period of rapid economic growth, hot spring areas witnessed significant transformations. Large-scale accommodations arose, evolving traditional hot springs into bustling tourist destinations. The 1980s saw a "hot spring boom" with women playing a central role, leading to a surge in young female visitors. Open-air baths gained popularity, and during the economic bubble, there was a demand for high-end traditional inns. The "Hometown Revival" initiative spurred hot spring development nationwide, and day-trip facilities became widespread. Despite a decline post the bubble economy's collapse, hot springs remained popular. The modern trend leans towards authenticity and genuine experiences, with private baths and footbaths becoming increasingly popular. This era solidified hot springs' transition from therapeutic centers to favored tourist attractions.
1945-Present