Spa World

While Japan is famous for its hot springs, very few naturally occur in the Osaka area. Luckily, visitors looking for a little relaxation of the soaking variety can find it—seven floors of it—at Spa World. One of the world’s largest hot springs complexes, Spa World bills itself as a sort of theme park, with onsen (hot springs pools) and saunas from around the world. 

The complex is divided into various themed areas. The onsen occupy two floors and two different areas: the European Zone, with pools fashioned in styles of ancient Greece and Rome, Italy, Spain and Finland; and the Asian Zone, featuring Japanese, Indonesian, Persian and Middle Eastern-style baths. Another floor houses eight themed saunas, while yet another floor contains an indoor water park complete with three slides.  Visitors will also find a hotel with Western and Japanese-style accommodations, a food court, full-service spa, gym, gift shop, arcade and TV room within the complex. 

Practical Info

Admission to Spa World is good from the time of entrance until 8:45 a.m. the following morning and includes access to the onsen, swimming area and gym. Lodging and the sauna areas require additional fees.