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Bessho Onsen

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Bessho Onsen Weather, Climate and Best Time to Visit

Data source：Meteostat
Update date：2025-09

Bessho Onsen year round climate

  • Spring (March–May): Average 52–66°F, mild climate but with relatively high rainfall, especially frequent rain in March and April. Common activities: Spring outings, flower viewing (if applicable). Recommended clothing: Light jacket, long-sleeved shirt and pants; it is recommended to bring rain gear.
  • Summer (June–August): Average 73–83°F, hot and humid, with more rainfall in June and August. Common activities: Swimming, outdoor cooling activities. Recommended clothing: Light and breathable clothing, sun hat and sunglasses.
  • Autumn (September–November): Average 58–78°F, pleasant and comfortable climate, with gradually decreasing rainfall. Common activities: Autumn leaf viewing (if applicable), outdoor excursions. Recommended clothing: Light jacket or cardigan, long or short sleeves are both suitable.
  • Winter (December–February): Average 43–48°F, cold and dry, with low rainfall. Common activities: Indoor activities, onsen experience (if applicable). Recommended clothing: Warm coat, sweater, scarf, gloves, etc.

Bessho Onsen climatological average

Annual average temperature: approx. 63.5°F / Annual rainfall: approx. 1659 mm / Summer humidity: 70%–80% / Rainiest month: June

Bessho Onsen monthly average temperature and precipitation

Month
Air temperature (°F)
Precipitation (mm)
January
43.9°F
26.2
February
45.3°F
71
March
52.7°F
169.3
April
61.3°F
159.6
May
66.7°F
203.3
June
73.6°F
231.1
July
82.4°F
120.3
August
83.1°F
225.4
September
79°F
206
October
66.7°F
127
November
58.6°F
87.7
December
48.4°F
32.4

Bessho Onsen weather for the next seven days

5/12
Tuesday
Sunny
68.5°F/62.4°F
5/13
Wednesday
Sunny
70.7°F/62.4°F
5/14
Thursday
Partly Cloudy
72.5°F/64.4°F
5/15
Friday
Sunny
68.7°F/61°F
5/16
Saturday
Sunny
71.5°F/63.6°F
5/17
Sunday
Sunny
71.5°F/64°F
5/18
Monday
Sunny
71.2°F/64.2°F

Bessho Onsen Frequently Asked Questions and Useful Information for Travel

What is Bessho Onsen known for?

Bessho Onsen is renowned as the oldest recorded hot spring in the region. Its therapeutic sulfurous waters have a long history, with legends claiming they healed the arrow wounds of ancient warriors who bathed in them.

What are the most significant onsen in Japan?

While 'top 3' onsen depend on personal preference, historically, Arima Onsen, Kusatsu Onsen, and Gero Onsen are often recognized as the 'Three Great Hot Springs' due to their age and fame. Bessho Onsen is also a significant historical hot spring destination.

Do you wear underwear when bathing in an onsen?

No, you are required to undress completely in the changing area; no clothes, underwear, or swimwear are permitted in the bathing area of an onsen. You can leave your belongings in provided baskets or lockers. A small modesty towel can be taken into the bathing area.

How do I travel to Bessho Onsen?

To reach Bessho Onsen, first take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Nagano Station to Ueda Station, a journey of about 10 minutes. From Ueda Station, transfer to the Uedadentetsu Bessho Line and ride for approximately 30 minutes to Bessho Onsen Station.

What is the historical significance of Bessho Onsen?

Bessho Onsen holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating hot spring in Japan. Its waters have been revered for centuries for their healing properties, contributing to its enduring legacy as a premier onsen destination.