Japan is famed for its onsen (hot springs), where travelers and locals alike go to soak away stress and heal ailments. According to Ultimate Hot Springs Guide, the benefits of soaking in hot springs include better sleep, a stronger immune system, improved circulation and cell oxygenation, and even weight loss.
Many of Japan’s best onsens, some of which are part of traditional ryokans (inns), are found in popular locations like the towns of Beppu and Kurokawa on Kyushu island or the city of Matsuyama on Shikoku island, but others are situated in some of Japan’s smaller yet equally charming towns. For those wondering, the main difference between a ryokan and an onsen is that the former is a traditional type of accommodation surrounding hot springs, while the latter is a bath complex using naturally warm or hot water from geothermal springs.
That sounds delightful in theory, but Americans may not have to travel all the way to East Asia for this soothing and possibly therapeutic experience. What’s more, Newsweek recently reported that upcoming changes to Japan’s tourism policy may make it even harder to visit the country. But you can actually enjoy the rejuvenating effects of a geothermal soak without having to track down your passport.
Instead, set your sights a little closer to home and plan a trip to the Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs, mineral springs fed by Hot Springs Creek and located near Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Set in a stunning location with hot springs that almost look and feel like they’ve been airlifted over from Japan, here is what makes this magical place a great alternative to traditional Japanese hot springs right here in the USA.
“Healing Starts Here”: Colorado’s Strawberry Park Hot Springs Embodies The Japanese Vibe
Strawberry Park Hot Springs, CO
David A Litman
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Strawberry Park Hot Springs consists of five naturally fed, open-air pools of different sizes and temperatures (between 102 and 108 degrees Fahrenheit). It’s the ultimate relaxation site, with the masonry and sand floors mimicking the onsens found in Japan. And since clothing is optional in the evening (much like in Japan, where it’s normal and even encouraged to be clothing-free), minors aren’t let in after sundown.
Key Information For Visitors To Strawberry Park Hot Springs
Hours
10 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun–Thurs.; 10 a.m.–midnight, Fri–Sat
Admission
$20 per person for 2 hours; cash only
Address
44200 County Road 36, Steamboat Springs, CO
Phone
(970) 879-0342
There is minimal lighting at night to create a more natural ambiance and for a better stargazing experience, which is why bringing a flashlight is highly recommended. Moreover, the resort mostly operates off-grid, with minimal power usage; therefore, visitors shouldn’t expect charging outlets.
Facilities & Amenities To Complement The Traditional Japanese-Like Experience
Since the facility is only located an hour away from the pine-and-aspen-lined Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, a lot of guests opt to stay overnight. Lodging includes access to the thermal pools from sunrise to midnight, which would definitely come in handy after indulging in exciting outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and snowshoeing.
In true Japanese countryside fashion, Strawberry Park’s accommodation is rustic and mostly off-grid. The larger cabins have no electricity, Wi-Fi, or running water, and guests will have to bring their own linens and blankets. There is, however, a central bathhouse with full plumbing and hot-water showers. As for the smaller, one-room cabins, they have heat, a gaslight, and a gas grill, while the popular Train Caboose includes solar lights, a gas fireplace, and a bathroom with a shower. In summer (May until October 31), vehicle or tent camping is also possible, but no RVs are allowed on site.
Strawberry Park Hot Springs, Colorado, CO, USA
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For those who want a more relaxing activity, the Strawberry Park Hot Springs also offers a few spa services, including deep-tissue massages and Watsu aquatic therapy. Per Healthline, this Japanese form of healing “involves stretches, massages, and acupressure in warm water.” It is supposed to provide guests relief from muscle tension, joint pain, sleep disorders, pregnancy discomfort, and anxiety, among other ailments. Spa services should be reserved in advance over the phone.
What Else Is There To Do Around Steamboat Springs?
Strawberry Park Hot Springs is only 20 minutes away from Steamboat Springs, an ideal mountain getaway no matter the season. The world-renowned slopes at Steamboat Resort have earned this destination the nickname “Ski Town USA”. In warmer months, the mountain transforms into a playground for mountain bikers and hikers. Fish Creek Falls is one of the most popular trails, leading to an impressive 280-foot waterfall. The region is especially beautiful in the fall when the aspen leaves turn a dazzling yellow and wildflowers bloom across the region.
Meanwhile, Steamboat also celebrates its Wild West roots in a variety of ways. The Tread of Pioneers Museum highlights Native American heritage and the town’s ranching past, while annual events like the Pro Rodeo Series provide a taste of authentic western culture. Lincoln Avenue is the place to go should you wish to look the part of a cowboy or collect local art. Steamboat’s growing culinary scene still offers cowboy cuisine, but these days, it comes with an upscale twist supported by a devotion to locally sourced ingredients. This is also a great place to sample the craft beer scene that has become the backbone to Colorado après-ski culture.
Annual Hot Air Balloon Rodeo in Steamboat Springs, CO.
Dreamstime
One of the best ways to experience the region is from above. The Steamboat Gondola whisks visitors up the mountain, revealing sweeping views of the Yampa Valley. For a more unique adventure, consider reserving a hot air balloon ride. From the air, you can enjoy uninterrupted views stretching to the Flat Tops Wilderness, which is especially beautiful first thing in the morning.
With its traditional Japanese ambiance and soothing waters, Strawberry Park Hot Springs offers a taste of Japan right here in the USA. And its location near one of the country’s most underrated mountain destinations makes it a great jumping-off point for a truly memorable (and relaxing) getaway.
AloJapan.com