Are there hot spring resorts with snow views that can be visited as a day trip from major cities？

Conclusion

Yes! If you're looking for a magical winter experience, Japan has several snowy onsen (hot spring) destinations just a short train ride from Tokyo or Osaka. Whether you want to bathe in the open air surrounded by snow-covered rocks or enjoy mountain views while soaking, these spots offer unforgettable day trips.

❄️ Day-Trip Snowy Onsen from Tokyo

1. Gala Yuzawa + Yuzawa Onsen (Niigata)

• Why it’s special: Ski + soak in one day! Snow is guaranteed, and many hotels offer day-use baths.
• Access:
  　🚅 75 minutes from Tokyo to Echigo-Yuzawa Station via Joetsu Shinkansen
  　♨️ Try: Yuzawa Grand Hotel, Yuzawa Toei Hotel
• Tip: Even non-skiers can enjoy snow scenery and shopping near the station.

2. Takaragawa Onsen (Gunma)

• Why it’s special: One of Japan’s most famous mixed-gender open-air baths, surrounded by snowy rocks and a river.
• Access:
  　🚅 Tokyo → Jomo-Kogen Station (Shinkansen) → bus or taxi (~2.5 hours total)
• Tip: Bring a towel or rent one on-site; bath is open-air and scenic year-round, but stunning in snow.

3. Minakami Onsen (Gunma)

• Why it’s special: Peaceful riverside setting, surrounded by mountains. Many ryokan welcome day-use guests.
• Access:
  　🚅 ~90 minutes from Tokyo via Jomo-Kogen or Minakami Station
• Tip: Combine with a snowshoeing tour or riverside walk.

4. Kinugawa Onsen (Tochigi)

• Why it’s special: Classic onsen town near Nikko, with views of snowy valleys and rivers.
• Access:
  　🚃 ~2 hours from Asakusa via Tobu Railway
• Tip: Great for families—combine with Edo Wonderland or Tobu World Square.

🏯 Day-Trip Snowy Onsen from Osaka

1. Kinosaki Onsen (Hyogo)

• Why it’s special: A charming old town full of traditional bathhouses. Snow in January–February adds to the fairytale setting.
• Access:
  　🚅 ~2.5 hours from Osaka via Limited Express Kounotori
• Tip: You can stroll in yukata + geta between multiple bathhouses—even as a day trip!

2. Kurama Onsen (Kyoto Mountains)

• Why it’s special: Small, rustic hot spring in the forested mountains north of Kyoto. When it snows, it feels like a secret hideaway.
• Access:
  　🚃 ~1.5 hours from Osaka (via Kyoto + Eizan Railway)
• Tip: Outdoor bath surrounded by snowy trees—very peaceful.

3. Yunohana Onsen (Kyoto Suburbs)

• Why it’s special: A quiet, lesser-known onsen area near Kameoka. Snow is occasional but beautiful when it happens.
• Access:
  　🚃 ~1 hour from Osaka via JR to Kameoka + short taxi ride
• Tip: Most ryokan allow day-use; advance check recommended.

Extra Travel Tips

• Check snow forecasts: For real snowy views, aim for January–February
• Bring a towel or check if rental is available
• Day-use hours usually end by 3–5 PM, so go early
• Onsen etiquette: No swimsuits, rinse before entering, tattoos may not be allowed in some locations